Hands are one of the first things people notice, this is why it is important to keep our nails looking fresh. Not everyone can afford to go to the nail salon every week, this is why I put together an article on how to do an affordable at home manicure! 

First, let’s start with the tools you will need: 

-nail polish remover 

-cotton balls/pads

-warm water

-cuticle plucker/pusher 

-nail file 

-nail buff 

-clear coat 

-nail polish 

All of these items can be purchased just about anywhere, even the dollar store, so no need to worry! 

Next, let’s talk about how to do this! Start off by removing nail polish, if it is currently on. You will want to soak your hands in warm water for at least 3 minutes; this softens your nails and cuticles to make styling easier. After this, grab the cuticle pusher and begin to gently push back that dead skin. Once this is complete, gently pluck away the dead skin with the cuticle plucker. Now it is time to file and buff your nails. This part is pretty self explanatory; just try not to file your nails too short, or you will risk cutting the skin under your nails. At this point, your hands are looking clean! You can now polish as desired. Start off with a clear base coat, then two coats of your color, and then one of a top coat. Allow each coat to try before applying another. 

And there you have it! For an extra pampering experience consider adding a spa feel with a cuticle softener, hand scrub and hand cream to finish it off!