Phyl Clarke on nailing the polished look.
After last week's talk about hands, and the care of them, that little item at the end of each finger is in the spotlight this week. There are some groovy colours coming up, but let's go over the basics first, to get your nails into tip-top shape.
While a professional manicure is a lovely thing, there is a lot you can do yourself while watching an episode of Fair City. This routine takes 20 minutes, so you can even make a cuppa during the ad break.
First, remove any old nail polish. Nail varnish remover prepares the nails by removing any grease, so your polish will last longer. Shape the nail, using a file or emery board. I have mentioned the ceramic file before, and if you try one you will never go back. The Barbara Daly Tesco version is a steal at €12.
File from corner to centre. Do not file in a see-saw motion as this will split the nail. Soak your hands in warm, soapy water for a few minutes. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice to the water if you like. Clean under nails with a wood stick and tidy up the cuticles.
Now apply clear nail polish, ridgefiller, base coat, or nail strengthener. They all do a similar job. When the clear polish dries, apply a colour polish, if you are using one. Nail polish thinner, available at pharmacies, can be used to thin out nail polish that has become too thick. Don't rush this bit. It's much better to apply a few thin coats of colour rather that one thick one, as it will dry quicker and last longer. When applying polish, be sure to bring it over the front edge of the nail and slightly under the tip. This helps stop the polish chipping. Then put on your top coat, again to to prevent chipping. You don't need to buy a separate one; any clear nail polish can be used as a top coat or sealer. u pclarke@irish-times.ie
TOP TIPS:
- Keep the polish in the fridge to make it last longer.
- If you break a nail, the best thing to do is to cut it off. But here's a trick: if the break is low down, cut a tiny strip from a teabag casing, and, with a wet fingertip, place it over the tear and paint over with polish.
- Nails will feel dry to the touch after 10 minutes, but don't be fooled. It actually takes an entire hour for nails to be completely dry, so you might as well be done with it and watch the omnibus.
The Goods
Opi "I'm not really a waitress", €10 at Roches Stores Nail Bar, Henry Street, Dublin 1. This brand ties with Essie for the most creative names, and this classic red doesn't disappoint.
The real star of Pulp Fiction, Chanel's Rouge Noir became an overnight sensation when Uma took to the dancefloor with those wicked dance moves. Many brands have tried to replicate its appeal, but the original is still the best. Another favourite shade is Flamme Rose, the most elegant neutral. Both cost €18 from Arnotts, Henry Street, Dublin 1, and other Chanel outlets.
Essie Mademoiselle, €13,50 from Nue Blue Eriu, South William Street, Dublin 2. This shade constantly tops the charts as a favourite, and with more than 250 other colours to choose from, you are in nail heaven.
The Rmk range is worth checking out at House of Fraser, Dundrum Town Centre, Dublin 14. They have a clever little idea. To help choose your perfect shade, each colour comes on a nail "swatch" which you can place over your own nail. €18