Tips on Making That Mani Last

'Butler Please' by Essie, May 2014

Aside from having a really good nail technician, there are some things that you can do to extend the staying power of your mani.  I know a lot of women tend to shy away from manis because of the quick chipping time, but I'm here to save the day (and possibly) your pockets!

Orly Bonder, May 2014

Invest in a Base Coat
When I say invest, I mean spend some extra coins on an actual base coat.  The benefits to using a base coat are:

- chip prevention, gives polish a surface to stick to
- stain prevention (keeps polish from staining nails)

Some base coats aid in nail health and are fortified with vitamins to help strengthen nails as well.

We've all seen the 2-in-1 top coat/base coat options, but I suggest steering clear of these.  A base coat is formulated to act as the foundation for your mani so it's best that we make the additional purchase to aid in a long lasting mani.

I prefer to use a base coat that has a rubberized finish so the polish adheres to it.  My favorite base coat, that I've been using for a few years now, is the Orly Bonder ($7), which is a rubberized base coat.  I've had very little trouble with my manis while using it!

OPI Top Coat, May 2014

Do NOT Forget the Top Coat!
Your top coat is just as important as your base coat.  Top coats are clear polishes that

- seal your nails, creating a barrier
- prevent chipping
- provide a high gloss shine, keeps polish looking fresh

They help your manis last longer because of the protective barrier.  Without them, polish jobs would look dull and may even chip a lot more quickly.  So do not forget to apply your top coat!

My favorite top coat is the OPI Top Coat ($9).  I was using another top coat-- one that shall not be named-- and my nails would sometimes chip the same day.  I came across the OPI top coat on a trip to Ricky's and decided to give it a try.  I haven't looked back since!

Allow Ample Drying Time
Always allow ample time to dry.  This is to make sure that your polish sets and hardens appropriately without any drama.  I understand that some people get manis on the go, but I suggest getting a mani when you have some time to kill.  In my opinion, ample drying time is a minimum of 20 minutes.  This is to make sure that my nails are fully dry to prevent chipping, smudges, and any other horrible thing that can go wrong with wet nails.

Essie Quick-E Drying Drops ($10)
A friend told me about these drying drops because she does manis on the run (Thanks, Alaetra!).  I used to compliment her nails at work because they always looked perfectly done.  She told me that the drying drops were her little secret because she was able to do her nails and be out the door in 3!

The drops speed up your drying time by drying nails in a 'quick-e'.  They also protect nails from smudging, dents, and enhance shine!  The dropper-like top is perfect for application as you only need 1-2 drops per nail.  It is important that you are close enough to get the drops on the intended target, but you want to avoid bumping your nails with the dropper.

I usually dry my nails for 2 cycles, 4 minutes each.  Next, I apply my drops and sit under the dryer for another 4 minute cycle.  Then, I'm out the door!

Whenever I get a mani, I always make sure my hair is done (to avoid having my nails soaked in water for a long period of time), I bring my own polish to the salon (to avoid using old, thinned out polish), and I keep my polish out of direct sunlight.  With that being said, good luck with those manis! ;)

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any tips to extend the life of your mani?  Share below!