Joy feelings magazine July Issue 2019 | Page 74

Always use a base coat and top coat. If you want to walk away with a salon quality manicure and pedicure done at home, you’ll need to stick to these crucial steps to properly protect your nails from start to finish. Clean your tools after your last manicure and pedicure. To avoid bacteria build up and infection, clean your tools after each use. Moisturize beforehand! Moisturize with a hand lotion or body lotion beforehand so your newly painted nails can dry safely. Avoid using Q-Tips to clean nail polish mistakes. Q-Tips aren’t ideal for this detailed procedure. Instead, opt for a makeup brush dipped in natural nail polish remover to touch up any smudges. Roll - don’t shake! - your nail polish bottle. This will prevent bubble formation for a smoother manicure and pedicure.