DIY manicure

We all paint our nails, but how many times do we just lazily slap some polish on then pick it off a couple days later? I'm definitely guilty.

Now that I've started working I realize I can't sport my classic chipped, blue nails anymore since it's not professional-looking. While going polish-less is the easiest and most realistic option, sometimes you just gotta put in a little time and effort to groom your nails. Even if you don't want paint color on your nails, it's still a good idea to regularly trim your cuticles and file your nails down so they look clean. Not only will it save you time and money by not going to a nail salon, it can be something you look forward to!

the only supplies you need

First, take off any existing nail polish with nail polish remover and wash your hands with soap after to ensure nail polish will really adhere to your nails. Then clip nails if needed, but definitely file your nails regardless so whichever shape you choose (oval or squared) all nails look uniform in shape.

Next, clean up cuticles with a cuticle trimmer. This is one of the most underrated nail products ever! You can get one for super cheap from the nail section of the drugstore - mine is Revlon. You use the pointed end to push your cuticles down, then the metal end to get the dead skin off (I realize these are horrible instructions but I can't really explain it - I promise it's intuitive!).

Here's the time-consuming part. Take the time to paint your nails with a clear base coat, two coats of color (allowing plenty of time to dry in between), then finally a clear top coat. If you're the type of person who hastily paints a couple coats of color on your nails and that's it, you're better off having bare nails because the polish is going to look bad and chip in no time. It can be frustrating to sit and wait for your nails to dry, but try to pass the time by reading or Pinteresting and if you're really rushed just run your hands underneath cold water and they'll dry faster.

Make sure you're keeping your hands and cuticles hydrated by using hand cream daily, and keep up a manicure by reapplying top coat every other day to prevent chipping and dullness.

If you turn grooming your nails into a mini spa night with a face mask and a magazine, it'll be something you actually look forward to every week, and who doesn't feel prettier with manicured nails?