Things You'll Need

Instructions

1

Wash your hands before a manicure. Oils on your nails will keep the polish from sticking correctly.
2

Clip your nails straight across. Clipping your nails to a rounded tip makes them weak. Only file your nails to make them rounded.
3

File your nails in only one direction. A back and forth motion can also make your nails weak and more prone to tears and splits.
4

Use a top coat and base coat when you polish your nails. It may take longer, but it makes the manicure last for days.
5

Apply your polish by painting the nail widthwise, letting it dry, then painting it lengthwise.