10 Steps to a Perfect DIY Manicure in 2024

A salon manicure can be both expensive and time-consuming. So, whether you’re trying to save the extra cash or save yourself a trip to the salon, there’s plenty of reasons to love an at-home manicure in 2023. Whatever your go-to; from a classic French manicure to this season’s boldest shade, follow our 10 easy steps for the perfect, salon-quality manicure at home.

1. Moisturize.

Keeping your nails hydrated is a great way to ensure every manicure lives a long and happy life. We recommend applying cuticle oil every night, especially before a manicure, to allow the oil to fully moisturize your nails and the surrounding skin.

2. Get Nude.

Make sure you remove all traces of previously applied nail polish, especially if it’s a dark color you’re removing. There’s nothing worse than spotting some left over color once you’ve applied your new shade.

3. Ditch The Excess.

Once your nails are clean, brush a gentle cuticle remover around the edges of your nails. Leave for 30 seconds before gently pushing excess cuticle back away from the nail with a cuticle-pushing tool. Don’t push it too far and do NOT clip, tear or rip into the cuticle. If necessary, simply nip off the free edge with a pair of metal cuticle clippers.

4. Prep For Polish.

Apply a small amount of nail polish remover to your nail’s surface using a cotton swab or pad to remove any trace of oil left on your nails. Any moisture or oily residue will prevent your polish from adhering properly once applied.

5. All About That Base.

Don’t forget your base coat! Applying a base coat gives an even surface for your polish to adhere to, it will work against dark polishes staining your nail beds and most importantly, it extends the life of your manicure. Applying a good quality base coat can help protect your manis from chips for up to a week. And who wouldn’t want that?

6. Roll, Don't Shake.

When prepping your bottle for use, be sure to ditch your inclination to shake, and roll the bottle instead. Shaking can cause air bubbles to develop. Bubbles in the bottle can lead to bubbles on the nail, which will inevitably lead to chipping.

7. Layer Up.

Apply your nail polish color in layers, allowing ample drying time between applications. Two coats should usually do the trick. Remember that chipping will begin at the tip of your nail, so be diligent to paint this area properly.

8. The Cherry On Top.

As preventing your DIY manicure from chipping is obviously a top priority, it would be silly to forget to apply a top coat. Top coats form a protective barrier for your mani that prevents fading and chipping and allows for a long-lasting shine. A plumping top coat can build instant volume, delivering a gel-look finish with no UV lamp required.

9. Maintenance Is Key.

To keep up the appearance and durability of your mani, touch up your nails with a single layer of top coat every couple of days. Every day would be even better.

10. Moisturize Again. And Again.

Apply a good quality cuticle oil every night to keep your manicure, and your cuticles, looking fresh!

These simple steps will work on both your at-home manicure and pedicure so, get painting! We have plenty of time at home these days, so in 2023, it's the perfect time to start!