Savvy Nail Care: How to Save Money Without Skipping the Mani
When it comes to managing our finances, sacrificing small luxuries can feel daunting—especially when it involves your beloved mani. But fear not! You don’t have to forgo fabulous nails to stay on budget. Welcome to the world of “recession nails”! This trend is all about keeping your nails looking chic without draining your bank account. Here’s how you can master the art of an affordable mani while still treating yourself.
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- How to Make Your Salon Manicure Last Longer
- How to DIY Your Manicure at Home
- Best At-Home Manicure Tools and Kits
- Meet Our Experts
How to Make Your Salon Manicure Last Longer
If you choose to indulge in a professional manicure, make sure it counts! Here are expert-approved tips to prolong that salon-fresh look:
Daily Top Coat: According to Jessica Dickson, owner of Jessica’s Beauty Service, a daily layer of top coat goes a long way in keeping chips at bay.
- Gloves for Household Chores: Protect your investment! Chelse Collins, a nail technician and owner of The One Beauty Lounge, suggests wearing gloves while cleaning or washing dishes. Excess water and harsh chemicals can ruin your polish in no time.
How to DIY Your Manicure at Home
Want to skip the salon but still achieve a stunning manicure? With a few tips from the pros, you’ll be on your way to at-home nail perfection:
File Gently: Use a fine-grit nail file and avoid sawing motions. File in one direction for best results.
Attention to Cuticles: Properly pushed-back cuticles are essential for polish adhesion. Opt for an orange wood stick or a metal pusher, but be cautious—avoid cutting around the skin to prevent hangnails.
Clean Thoroughly: Start with a clean surface. Use at least 70% alcohol to eliminate dirt and oil from your nails.
- Layer Up: Apply a base coat, then two thin layers of colored polish, finishing with a top coat. Don’t forget to seal the free edge of your nail to extend wear!
Best At-Home Manicure Tools and Kits
Ready to tackle your DIY mani like a pro? Here are the top-rated tools to help you shine:
Diamancel Luxury Diamond Nail File
This durable nail file is built to last! Made from nickel-coated fiberglass, it won’t wear down quickly and can be washed for repeated use.
Londontown Must-Haves Complete Set
Everything you need for a salon-quality mani at home! This kit includes chip-resistant colors and care treatments to enhance your nail game.
CND Solar Oil
This nourishing cuticle oil is a must-have. It features a blend of jojoba, vitamin E, rice bran, and sweet almond oils to ensure your nails remain healthy and hydrated.
Dazzle Dry Polish
This game-changing polish dries completely in under five minutes and offers up to 14 days of wear without chipping.
Olive & June Mani System
The ultimate all-in-one system for at-home manicures, featuring essential tools and products that help achieve a professional finish.
Meet Our Experts
At NBC Select, we believe in providing trusted advice from industry experts. Here are the professionals who weighed in on the best practices for manicures:
Jessica Dickson: Owner of Jessica’s Beauty Service, specializing in mobile manicures and reflexology.
- Chelse Collins: Nail technician at The One Beauty Lounge in Hollywood, Florida.
By applying these smart tips and tricks, you can enjoy a fabulous mani without overspending. Embrace the recession nail trend and keep your nails looking stunning! Want more tips? Stay tuned for more articles from NBC Select covering everything from beauty to tech.