Monday, March 10, 2014

Nail Care Products

Happy Monday! I thought I would share some of the nail care products I am currently using-some old favourites and some new products. At first, this was also going to include how I paint my nails, but I decided to split up that post- so check back tomorrow to see how I use these products when I do my 'at-home' manicure. I think the last time I went to a nail salon was when I got acrylics for my high school prom...

The most important step to having your nails look strong and healthy is to moisturize, especially during dry, cold seasons. I love using The Body Shop Almond Hand & Nail Cream at night before I go to bed. It smells nice and is very hydrating. To keep my cuticles healthy, I use the Julep Essential Cuticle Oil. The roller ball applicator is so convenient. Now, I would recommend doing this once a day, however I know this can be basically impossible. I definitely don't remember to... If you keep up the moisturization, your cuticles will be easy to manage, but if you are starting from a bit of a rough place, a cuticle remover product can be a must-have. I am currently trying out the Julep Vanish Cuticle Softener & Remover. I am not 100% sold on it, as it can leave my cuticles looking a bit torn, but when they are being stubborn it does make it easier. This is a step I use only when needed. Filing and trimming your nails is pretty much a given. I only use nail clippers if I have a break and need to remove a lot of length. Usually, I will just use a basic emery board for shaping my nails. One tool I love is a buffing file. To get a really nice manicure, you need an even surface and using a buffer really helps. Just make sure not to over-do it- you don't want to thin your nails. A new go-to product for me is the Julep Ta Da Quick Dry Drops. I have been using this after every manicure to speed up the drying process. Plus, it's essential oil formula helps moisturize your cuticles, which I mentioned I always seem to forget.

For painting your nails, I always try to use a base coat. Currently, I am using Cult's Botanical Basecoat. One that I love if you are having problems with your nails breaking is OPI Nail Envy.  It does contain Formaldehyde Resin, so I have been trying to find an alternative-but it really does work. My favourite brand of nail polish is Zoya. They are five-free, have a huge range of colours and finishes, and the formula is super easy to apply. With Zoyas, I rarely use a top coat as they dry super shiny. When I do use a top coat, usually if I am applying a glitter or doing nail art, I use either duri Miracote or inm Out the Door. Both are quick dry top coats. If using them with nail art, I make sure to wait for the design to completely dry because unfortunately they will smear. Seche Vite is an option if you want a super, super quick dry formula, but the smell, shrinkage, and goopy-ness were a deterrent for me repurchasing it.

One of the biggest manicure tips I have is to 'clean up' after painting your nails. Using a small make-up brush (the elf Small Smudge Brush is perfect!) and 100% Pure Acetone makes removing any mess-ups and making a crisp line right above your cuticle easy.

I hope this helps if you were looking for some new nail care products or tips on painting your nails at home! Check back tomorrow-I will share step-by-step how I paint my nails, showing how I incorporate these products in my routine.

What are your nail care essentials?

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