For this reason we have included very basic directions for doing a home manicure.
First remove old nail polish - use an oily polish remover. Rubbing alcohol (although it is very drying) could also be used.
Shape nails, but when filing, file only in one direction as criss-cross filing will leave snags. After the nails have been shaped, use an ultra fine emery board (preferably diamond finish) to make sure the edges are really smooth.
Apply cuticle massage cream or oil and massage into the cuticles, leave on for two minutes and then soak your hands in warm soapy water for a few minutes. (In the past people used to soak their finger tips in warm olive oil to soften the cuticles, and although this is a great treatment for your finger tips, it is a bit messy).
Use a good brush and gently brush your cuticles, under the nails as well as the rest of the hand to promote circulation.
Dry hands while gently pushing back the cuticles and then apply cuticle remover cream / lotion.
Leave on the cuticles as stipulated, and afterwards gently push the cuticles back - DO NOT force or damage the cuticles.
NEVER CUT CUTICLES.
Next, remove dead skin from your hands by massaging an exfoliating cream / lotion into your hands. (Some people use a few drops of lemon juice as well to help whiten the hands).
At this stage you could "bleach" under your nails using lemon juice again. (Some people use peroxide to bleach, but we would rather recommend using a couple of drops of lemon juice).
Wash hands well and when they are completely dry (wait for about 15 minutes), apply a clear base coat (undercoat) in order to protect the nails from the color in nail varnish.
When completely dry, apply 2 layers of nail varnish, waiting for each layer to dry thoroughly.
When your nails are completely dry, you can apply some more cuticle massage cream or oil to the cuticles and a good hand cream to the rest of your hands.
