Nayld to the Rescue: Avoid These 5 Common Manicure Mistakes

Do you like saving cash? Do you strive to score new skills without even having to leave your house?

If you're reading this, it means that Nayld loves you. And because Nayld loves you, we've got some sensational advice for you. Don't let your dreams be dreams: leave your worries at the door and dive into your next manicure at-home! To make sure you score the best at-home manicure of all time, we've rounded up the top 5 troubles that tend to fall upon at-home manicurists. Read them, react to them, and then rid them from your routine.

Make "at-home manicure" your middle name. Find out how to fix the most common manicure killers like cuticle neglect, bad curing habits and poor product application.

1) Poor Product Removal

Before beginning your new manicure, it's important to get rid of your old product properly. Without the right removal techniques, your manicure might get off on the wrong foot (or hand!) Always perform proper removal to prevent damage to your natural nails. Taking off traditional nail polish is super easy: a simple nail polish remover quickly creates a clean slate for the next manicure. However, gel polish, dipping systems, hard gel and acrylic nails all require a bit more TLC when it comes to removal. To remove gel polish, grab yourself a removal kit. A gel polish removal kit comes with everything you need to get rid of gel polish, including foil wraps, remover, accessories and instructions. For other nail products like PolyGel, make sure you have the correct filing and nail soak-off equipment.

2) Starting With Wet Nails

Do you know how long should you wait after washing your hands to start your manicure? Do you know how water can affect your nails? Turns out water can actually wreck your manicure! Make sure your pre-manicure hand wash lasts less than 60 seconds. What's the deal? Well, when the natural nail plate is immersed in water for upwards of 60 seconds, some of the liquid could actually be absorbed below the surface: those with damaged nails are especially susceptible. A water-logged nail can cause poor sealing and mess up a polish application. Before your next at-home nail sesh, opt for a 30-second hand wash to clear off germs without making your manicure go awry!

3) Filing Nails Back and Forth

Oh, the horror! Many at-home manicurists mistakenly shape and file their nails with bad form. Don't be one of the misinformed nail neglecters: file your nails the right way! Always avoid using a sawing motion to file your nails. Instead, use a fluid motion to shape your nails, from the side to the centre in one direction. Opt for smooth, one-directional strokes rather than filing back and forth and causing damage. Improper nail filing form can cause serious damage to your free-edge, ultimately halting your at-home manicure from living long and prospering!

4) Bad Nail Curing Etiquette

One of the biggest advantages of a gel manicure is the speedy drying time. Unlike traditional polish, gel nails quickly dry by curing under UV/LED light. However, it's important to keep a few important things in mind to score a perfectly sealed set of nails. Many at-home manicurists don't place their hands fully under the lamp, causing partial rather than full curing. Always be sure to read the instructions included with your lamp and to spread all five fingers evenly under the lamp. Also, make sure to tuck your thumb in far enough to assure it attracts enough light. Looking for a little help in choosing the right lamp? Check out our complete nail curing lamp buying guide.

5) Skipping Cuticle Oil

After your mani is complete, it's important to seal the deal for durability. It's no secret that skipping out on a base coat and topcoat is a great way to ruin a manicure right from the start. However, many at-home nail enthusiasts make the mistake of skipping cuticle oil. Make sure you always cater to your cuticles to prevent your new manicure from chipping and cracking. Cuticle oil is the insurance you need to keep your nail beds happy and hydrated. This nourishing product works by penetrating the skin's surface to make sure your cuticles stay soft and smooth. Do your nails need a little more love? Scope out our buying guide for nail treatments. Set yourself up for a successful at-home manicure by avoiding these common mistakes!