How to Paint Your Nails Perfectly

Coloring your nails is such a fun way to express yourself. You can choose the color and design depending on your mood, outfit, or the occasion you are attending. Just search for nail art ideas online, and you have endless options to choose from. You can even let your nail technician execute your design ideas for you.

RELATED: 3 Ways to Remove Nail Polish Without a Nail Polish Remover

Going to a salon and having your nails painted is definitely a form of self-care. However, it can be costly. Doing it yourself is the way to go if you want to save some money. It may take some practice to do it perfectly, but if you know the dos and don’ts, it will be easier to master it. It’s not as hard as you think. Learn the right way to apply nail polish with Gabby Angelique‘s tutorial below.

Can’t think of a design? Check out these 37 Quick but Awesome 5 Minute Nail Art Ideas.

What You Need to Paint Nails

• cuticle oil
• orange stick
• glass nail file
• rubbing alcohol
• makeup sponge
• angled brush
• acetone
• nail polish
• top coat
• base coat

How to Paint Your Nails Neatly

Step 1:

Do not cut your cuticles. Get some cuticle oil and massage along your cuticles. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Using an orange stick, gently push back your cuticles. If you have a buildup of cuticles, you can use a cuticle remover, but be careful when using it as it can weaken your cuticle and nails.

Step 2:

File across the top and straight up along the sides to get the square shape. Do it in one direction not in both directions.

Step 3:

Wash your hands to remove all the oil and dust.

Step 4:

Wet the make-up sponge with alcohol and wipe the nail. Do not touch your nails.

Step 5:

Apply your base coat. It prevents straining and will make your manicure last. Do not make it too thick.

Step 6:

Take your nail polish color. Do not shake it. Roll it in between your hands to prevent air bubbles. Make sure it’s new. Slide the brush on the lid and top edge of the nail polish to remove excess paint.

Step 7:

Paint your nails by starting in the middle. You should only apply a thin coat. Make sure not to get it too close to the cuticle line. Cap the tip by running your nail polish brush across the edge of your nail. Let it completely dry.

Step 8:

Apply the second coat. Do not cap the tip this time.

Step 9:

Dip an angled brush in acetone and gently clean up around your nail. Let it dry.

Step 10:

Do not shake the top coat. Do the same process, but this time cap the free edge. Let it dry completely. Do not wave your hands.

How to Paint Your Nails Perfectly