Step 1: Remove old polish - Use cotton wool and nail varnish remover to remove all traces of your existing polish. The 2 main types of nail varnish remover are acetone removers and non-acetone removers. Acetone removers are best if you are removing bold, deep or bright shades of nail varnish. Non-acetone removers should be used if you have artificial nails.



Step 2: File your nails - Only file one direction. You'll weaken the nails if you go back and forth. Starting from the back of the nail, and going to the centre, make long, sweeping strokes. Avoid metal files as these are much harder on your nails and likely to cause damage.

Step 3: Soak your hands - Fill a large bowl with soapy water and dunk your hands in it for several minutes. This helps to soften your cuticles and clean the nails. Dry your hands when done, using a paper towel, not a cotton towel to avoid leaving bits of fluff on the nail which can get into the varnish.

Step 4: Work on your cuticles - Use a cuticle pusher to push back your cuticles. Then use the pointy end to remove any remaining dirt from under your nails

Step 5: Apply a base coat - This helps prevent nails from staining, strengthens the nails, and also allows for a smoother application of nail polish. Apply a thin, not thick coat to prevent smudges and keep the dry time down to a minimum. Wait until your base coat is dry before you apply nail varnish, if you have a good quality base cost applied in a thin coat it should not take long.

Step 6: Apply nail polish - Rest your hand on a firm surface so your nails remain steady when being polished. When Before applying to the nail roll the bottle of nail polish, never shake it. Shaking causes air bubbles to form that will stand out when you apply the nail polish. To apply nail polish place the brush 6 millimetres away from the cuticle - gentle pressure on the bristles will distribute the polish outward without bleeding over your cuticle. The first stroke should start from the centre of your nail's base and be taken out to the tip. Then make two more even strokes, either side of your first one. Apply the nail polish thinly to prevent smudging then wait for this coat to dry.

Step 7: Apply a second coat ? Once the first coat is dry apply another quote of your nail varnish following step 6 above. The more time you give between each coat the better the finish you will get in the end.

Step 8: Apply a top coat ? Make sure your nail polish is completely dry before you begin on your top coat. The top coat will not only protect your nail varnish but will also add extra shine to your nails and make the finish look more professional. Apply top coat every few days for extra protection and shine.

Step 9: Touch ups - Almost everyone gets some nail polish on their fingers instead of their nails. The best way to clean up around the nail is by using a cotton bud. Dip the cotton bud in polish remover and gently rub around the nail to clean up any unwanted polish. It's best to wait to do this until your top coat is dry.

Good luck with the home manicure.