Manicure Must Dos
 Step
one: Prep
Good looking nails are much like great looking skin; it
all starts with a clean base. So whether you head to your favorite salon or spa
for a professional manicure or opt for a DIY fix, it's essential to start with
healthy, well-groomed nails. Do-it-yourselfers be warned, while post-bath
or shower may seem like an ideal time to fit in a little at home nail care, it's
actually the worst. Water-saturated nails are overly sensitive to filing, and
polish won't stay put either. Another nail grooming faux pas is using a nail file
to shorten nails. Files are strictly to be used for shaping, nail clippers should
be used to cut long nails. And no, just any file won't do. A cheap emery
board will cost you more in nail damage than the dollars you'll save on price.
We recommend Nail Tek's Crystal File, a moderately priced nail file designed for
natural nails. Crystal File won't shred nails and actually helps prevent splitting
and peeling ($14.95; NailTek.com for retailers).
Most experts agree that cutting cuticles is a nail care no-no. That's because
cutting encourages cuticles to grow back thicker. Instead simply soften cuticles
with oil such as Cuticle Oil with Jojoba from the Lippmann Collection ($18),
before using a metal Cuticle Pusher to push them back.  Step
two: Polish
While your favorite professional manicurist may have
a solid selection of shades, we've rounded up some of fall's hautest colors for
nails, many of which can't be widely found at local salons and spas. As always
ladies, preparation is key. Pick your desired hue and bring it into your favorite
nail care expert or apply it yourself with a steady hand. Those applying
their own polish should be sure to use a reliable base coat before applying color
in one continuous stroke from just above the nail cuticle to the nail tip. Always
wait at least 5 minutes before applying a second coat, allowing the first coat
time to begin drying. One favorite polish pick for fall is Rehab,
after all, everyone who's anyone is doing it. This sheer ink-dipped blue from
the Lippmann Collection makes being on trend healthy and chic ($15 at Lippmanncollection.com).
Rehab may not be right for all occasions, think business meetings
or brunches with the potential in-laws. For days when your style is less Lindsay
and more lady, opt for Rouge Diva, a deep matte red from Bourjois's So Laque!
Nail Enamel collection ($9 at Bourjoisusa.com).
Another fall favorite is MAC's Nocturnelle Nail Lacquer, a creamy
pitch black that's an instant classic ($10 at Maccosmetics.com).
 Step
three: Protect
Now that you've got some color, you'll want to keep
it, so protection is key. No manicure is complete without top coat but a poor-quality
top coat can ruin the endurance of even a high quality lacquer. We like Seche
Vite Dry Fast Top Coat ($10 at beautysak.com.)
The patented formula binds with color to create one unbreakable bond, plus it
won't discolor or yellow and helps quickly dry nails. Reapply that top coat every
other day to keep color fresh and avoid chipping. Those who are really serious
about keeping color fresh should avoid immersing hands in water. For example,
wear gloves when doing dishes. Or go out to eat. Follow these three easy
steps, and you're sure to nail the most stylish looks this season.
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