Make Your Manicure Last
By Jessica Conway, GalTime.com Associate Producer
Extra fun in the sun and sand wreaking havoc on your manicure? It's happened to all of us! Time to breathe a sigh of relief. Celebrity manicurist Jin Soon Choi shows us how to make that lacquer last!
How do you protect a manicure from the sun? Applying a non-yellowing top coat is the best way to stop nail polish from fading while you're outside. Choi suggests both Essie Non-Yellowing Top Coat ($8) and Creative Nail Design Air Dry Fast Set Top Coat ($6).
What about keeping your hands healthy? Is is important to apply SPF to your digits? Even on hands, sunblock is very important. Be sure to apply a hand cream with SPF before you go outside, especially during the hot summer months. Even though you don't have to moisturize as much as you do in the winter, treat your hands as you would treat your face.
Related: Bad Pedicure= Bad Day
Are cuticles affected by the summer elements? The summertime is actually better for your cuticles and nails. Choi says they become less dry and brittle. Still, don't forget to smooth on your SPF hand lotion. Cuticle oil is also great to pack in your purse because it refreshes nails and will make your manicure shine!
What about swimming? Will chlorine and salt water wreak havoc on my hands? Choi says that top coat is the best way to preserve nail polish, and recommends applying it once or twice a week. Harsh liquids (like salt water and chlorinated water) and cleaning supplies can potentially damage your mani. To protect your polish, apply a dab of hand lotion after your come in contact with them, and try using rubber gloves if you clean.
Related: Gorgeous Hair: Why Your Brush Matters
Any tips on sizzling summer nail colors? Natural colors are great if you're in a rush - you can skip the base coat if the polish doesn't have a strong pigment. And this summer is all about color, so have fun trying out new shades and bright hues. After all, nail polish isn't permanent!
Deborah Lippmann Nail Lacquer in Naked
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