Do It Yourself Manicure/Pedicure

2008-07-24

Although it's nice to get pampered once in a while, hovering around $35, manicures and pedicures can definitely put a dent in your wallet! Luckily, they're not as hard as you may think. Doing your own manicures and pedicures are not only easy to do, but your nails will end up looking just as good as they do from the salon. Using the right products and following the proper steps will give you beautiful, long-lasting nails in the comfort of your own home!

Manicure:

Step 1: Remove old nail polish using nail polish remover and a paper towel or cotton swab. Try to use a non-acetone polish remover, it will not dry out your nails and cuticles as much.

Cutex Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover, $2.49 www.walgreens.com

Step 2: File nails while they're dry. You will not only get a better shape, but it will also help prevent peeling. When filing, file in one direction with smooth strokes. For best results, use a fine-emery board.

Sponge Boy Fine Nail File, $2.00 www.ulta.com

Step 3: Fill a bowl with warm water and mix in cuticle oil, olive oil or body lotion. Then take a cuticle stick and gently push back the cuticles. Next, rub cuticles with a warm washcloth in a circular motion. This will help get rid of dead cuticle skin.
**Many salons cut cuticles to get a clean look in little time, but it's not a healthy practice. Cutting your cuticles can result in infection.

Cuticle Sticks by Jonel, $1.39 www.ulta.com

Step 4: Wash away oil or lotion with soap and water, then dry nails thoroughly.

Step 5: Apply a base coat. It will hold the polish in place so that the polish lasts longer.

Borghese Magnectico Adhesive Base Coat, $9.00 www.ulta.com

Step 6: Pick out your nail color. Sweep polish on in three strokes from base to tip. First do the center of the nail and then each side. Use more dip per nail and then wipe the brush once per drunk before applying to the nail.

Step 7: Wait at least two minutes between each coat, including base coat.

Step 8: After you get the color you want, finish with a top coat. Top coats will add a long-lasting protective shell, higher level of shine, and it will keep your nails healthier.

Sally Hansen No Chip Acrylic Top Coat, $4.29 www.walgreens.com

Pedicure:

Step 1: Remove any nail polish thoroughly. (See Step 1 above)

Step 2: Soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes. Add a scented oil or rose petal for an extra spa-like experience.

Step 3: Clip toenails straight across using a toenail clipper. Clipping straight across will help prevent ingrown nails.

Studio 35 Beauty Deluxe Toenail Clipper, $1.49 www.walgreens.com

Step 4: File your toenails to smooth any rough edges.

Step 5: Push back your cuticles. ( See Step 3 above)

Step 6: Massage your feet with a moisturizing lotion. Use an exfoliating lotion if your skin is rough or dry.

Vichy Lipidiose Granular Exfoliating Cream, $7.50 www.ulta.com

Step 7: Separate your toes by putting cotton, toilet paper or a ready-made device for pedicures between your them.

Finish with Steps 5-8 above
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