A chip in your fresh manicure is a heartbreaker in a league of its own. But that’s no reason to stop painting your nails in the season’s hottest shades. Even the best nail colours chip faster than promised and running errands only speed up the fading. There’s no magic wand, but little tricks can make your painted nails last longer. Here are our three easy manicure must-dos to try at home...
 

Colour Coat

Colour Coat

Adding base coat and top coat is mandatory. While a sticky base coat primes your nails, top coats seal the colour. Everyone knows the two coats of paint rule, but we recommend you wait till the next day and apply a third coat followed by top coat. The extra layer adds a glossier look and lasts longer and you won’t have to worry about removing your nail polish every two days.

 

Tip Topped

Tip Topped

Most of us apply nail paint upto the edge of our nails. As it turns out, that is just the way to end up with chipped paint. Sweep your polish, as well as your base and top coats, into the inner edge of your nails. Wait for each coat to settle before you apply the next. Once done, wait for a few minutes and dip your hands into icy water. The cold will seal the colour better than any amount of blowing on your nails.

 

After Care

After Care

No polish will last a week if you put your manicured nails straight to work. Household work and even simple acts like pressings your nails too hard on a keyboard can take the edge off your favourite nail paint. Even if it’s tedious, wear rubber gloves when doing dishes or running other errands. Don’t press nails on anything and find someone without a manicure to open soda cans.