Something that really gives most people including myself the ick is unkempt nails. It is also one of those features that just seem to receive extra attention when interacting with someone else. Taking care of your hands and feet is not only about looks but it also directly correlates with one’s hygiene as well. Ideally, it’s extremely convenient to go get yourself a mani pedi done at a nail salon. It is not only time saving but you also deserve to pamper yourself every now and then. You end up looking good and as a result, feeling extremely good. Unfortunately, sometimes, you just can’t seem to find the time to keep that appointment. Not to forget, we all have rainy days and might have to take a rain check on the pampering. In times as such, here are some tips and tricks for salon like nails!

1. Clean your nails regularly and make sure you dry them after washing
2. Take a toothbrush and apply some salt onto it and use it to scrub your nails and the skin around them gently
3. A big NO to nail biting. A simple hack would be to wear nail polish with an off putting smell. This is bound to help.
4. Moisturize your cuticles with some coconut oil or almond oil. Gently massage them while you are at it.
5. Regularly wash your nail tools before and after use. The last thing you need is to create means for a bacterial breeding ground.
6. Tea Tree oil is a perfect germ disinfectant for your nails
7. Moisturize your hands and feet regularly. Ashy hands and feet can be appalling.
8. A base coat is vital to ensure your manicure lasts longer and gives the nail polish a smoother application. As a bonus, the base coat also promotes better nail health. Invest in good nail products like a base coat nail polish with ingredients like keratin, vitamin E, castor oil, and calcium that can hydrate, nourish, and strengthen your nails.
9. A top coat is just as important to make your polish last longer. A good nail trick is to apply a top coat to your nails every few days to help your manicure stay on longer
10. File your nails in slow and gentle in one direction. Failing to do so will result in premature breaking.
11. If your toenail seems too thick and difficult to cut, mix one teaspoon per pint of water and soak your foot in for about 5-10 minutes
12. And most importantly, as obvious as it is, we tend to forget. GIVE YOUR NAILS A BREAK!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amra Yooseph

Amra is a full time sustainability auditor who makes time to follow her passion in journalism as a part time writer and presenter. Something she loves doing is meeting people and learning what their outlook on a given situation is. She also happens to be a big foodie and is always down for a good meal.