Salon-quality nails at home are absolutely possible — you just need the right steps.
Step 1: Remove old polish and shape nails with a file, always filing in one direction.
Step 2: Soak fingertips in warm soapy water for five minutes, then gently push back cuticles.
Step 3: Exfoliate hands and moisturize — hydrated skin makes polish look better.
Step 4: Apply a base coat. Never skip this — it prevents staining and helps polish last.
Step 5: Apply two thin coats of color, not one thick one. Thin coats dry faster and chip less.
Step 6: Finish with a top coat, and reapply it every two days to extend wear.
Common mistakes to avoid: shaking the bottle (roll it instead to prevent bubbles), skipping base coat, and applying polish on oily nails — wipe with remover first for better adhesion.