How to apply nail polish

Apply nail color in three strokes: one down the center, one down each side. Apply two coats. Allow drying time between applications. Finish manicure by using a top coat to seal in color and resist chipping.

Manicure Basics:

• Step 1: Clean

Saturate a cotton pad with remover. Hold at the base of nail for a few seconds, then sweep along nail.

• Step 2: Shape

Shape nails to prevent breakage and snags. File dry nails with the soft side of an emery board. For best results, hold emery board underneath the nail at a 45-degree angle and file in one direction. Filing down the sides of nail too deeply weakens the nail's main support and leads to cracks. Keep an emery board with you at all times to catch minor snags and nicks when they occur.

• Step 3: Condition Cuticles

Soak cuticles for about 1 minute in warm, soapy water. This softens the cuticles so they can be gently pushed back. Massage in cuticle remover to condition unsightly cuticles and help combat hang-nails. Gently coax cuticle back with an orangewood stick covered in cotton, or a special rubber-tipped cuticle pusher. Leave cutting, if necessary, to a professional.

• Step 4: Protect

Apply base coat to protect nails from polish stains. Nail enamel goes on smoother, is more chip-resistant, and lasts longer. For extra protection, apply nail strengthener. It helps prevent nails from splitting, chipping, and peeling. Also, apply under tips of nails. Allow to dry thoroughly before applying polish.

• Step 5: Polish

Apply color in three strokes: one down the center, one down each side. Apply two coats, allowing a minimum of ten minutes drying time between applications.

• Step 6: Finish

Extend life of a manicure with a glossy top coat. Apply over color to help prevent chipping and scuffing.

Nail Brush Tips/Keep Your Polish Fresh:

• If nail enamel thickens, place bottle in a cup of very warm water for several minutes. Remember to screw cap on tightly!
• Prevent polish from getting gooey by storing it in the refrigerator.
• Stop nail polish caps from sticking by smoothing a little petroleum jelly around neck of new bottles. If the bottle is old, wipe the inside of the cap with a cotton swab dampened with nail polish remover.