Photography Tan Wei Te Beauty Direction Simone Wu Makeup Ou Yuhui (9002-9144), using M.A.C Nails Sophia Lee (9128-8431) Model Geri S/Ave
Well-groomed nails are the key to looking put-together. But that doesn’t mean you have to hit the nail salon regularly to get pretty nails. Spending just a few minutes every week on this nail care regime can help you achieve beautiful, healthy tips.
Step 1
Remove old nail polish with an acetone-free nail polish remover. Acetone is a highly flammable liquid and solvent that can break down even plastic; it leaves the nails and the skin around them very dry.
Step 2
When your nails are clear of polish: “Use a soft toothbrush to gently brush the cuticles and the skin around the nails,” says Steve Desobeau, studio manager and podiatrist from Pedi:mani:cure Studio by Bastien Gonzalez at Remede Spa, The St Regis Singapore. This boosts healthy nail growth.
Step 3
Instead of clipping your nails, file them. “Filing is gentler; use a glass nail file as it’s gentler than a metal one,” says Steve.
Glass files are also more hygienic than buffing boards as they can be washed.
Step 4
Now, wash your nails with water. Steve adds: “Wipe the nail surface vigorously using a soft towel until the nail is completely dry.” This helps to stimulate blood circulation too.
Then, buff your tips to create a natural glossy sheen.
Step 5
Apply a drop of cuticle oil on each nail to moisturise the nail bed and cuticles, and massage your nails and cuticles until the oil is well-absorbed.
This makes your nails more flexible and less likely to break.
Step 6
You can go on to apply a base coat to protect your nails. If you need some colour, brush on nail polish after the base coat and follow with a top coat.
1 Chanel La Base, $34
2 Ciate The Treatment Collection Nail Super Hero, $24
3 Essence Quick & Easy Sponge Nail Polish Remover, $5.90
4 Sephora Protection Base Coat, $12
5 Chanel Le Top Coat, $34
6 Sephora Nourishing Cuticle Care, $12
7 Depend Cuticle Cream, $6.90
8 Sephora Glass Nail File, $20
This article was originally published in the digital edition of Simply Her September 2015.
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