Now, if you were one to get gels, acrylic, or dip, we’ve discussed how to safely remove them at home and how to care for your nails back to health. So check those out if you need to have a rehab moment before you reach for the polish. To achieve this look, first trim the nail (if needed) so they are all the same length. Then, with your file, file in one direction: Start on one outside end and sweep toward the center; then flip to the other outer side and do the same. Do not use the “saw” motion as that can be too abrasive to weaker nails. Follow up with a cuticle oil. Jojoba oil is nutrient-dense and fast-absorbing, but even a light, natural hair oil will do. “Barely dot it at the base of the nail, massaging into the cuticle,” she says. Then follow with a hand cream to treat all of the skin (our frequently washed hands could likely use it). “The most important being your base coat because that is what is touching your nail and seeping into the skin,” Nadine Abramcyk, co-founder of clean salon tenoverten tells us here. So even if you don’t have a clean polish around the house (see our favorite clean polishes here if you’re looking for some new options), do try to make sure you have at least a 7-free base polish. For day-to-day care, just be sure to keep your hands moisturized with creams and apply a dab of cuticle oil daily. This will keep the skin and nail soft, rather than flaky and brittle. After a week of your mani, remove the polish to give your nails a breather. Then? Start this all over.
