Cosmetics

7 Steps to DIY Manicures

Manicures are all the rage, but chips and nicks soon after a visit to the nail salon cause frustration in women everywhere, especially after paying a hefty price. Here are a few tips for do-it-yourself manicures that will look good and last long, without burning a hole in your pocket.

1. Remove old nail polish with an acetone-free remover. Place a cotton pad soaked in remover on your nail for up to a minute before wiping it off. It softens the polish and makes removal easier.
2. Shape your nails before they are softened by soaking. File in one direction on the top and corners, but not the sides. This will weaken your nails.
3. Soak your fingertips in warm, soapy water for three to five minutes. It feels good and softens your cuticles at the same time.
4. Gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher. Be careful not to break the skin, as this could cause an infection.
5. Trim any hangnails and then wash your hands.
6. Moisturize by massaging your hands with hand cream.
7. Wipe your nails to remove any residue, and then apply a base coat over the nail and across the tip. Let them dry then apply another two thin coats of enamel. Finally, apply a top coat to prevent the tips from chipping.

Youthful Skin the Natural Way

Though wrinkle creams are a cheap alternative to invasive surgical procedures, there are also natural ways of preventing wrinkles.

Yale dermatologist Nicholas Perricone suggests eating more fish, salmon in particular. Salmon, which is a good source of protein, is also one of the essentials for great skin. Salmon is rich in fatty acids and omega-3, which keeps skin plump and youthful, reducing wrinkles.

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition suggested trading coffee for chocolate. Researchers found that cocoa is high in dietary flavonols which protect skin from sun damage, improve circulation to the skin cells, and affect hydration. Together, this makes the skin look and feel smoother.

Dermatologists at the University of Maryland Medical Center found that tap water strips the skin of natural barrier oils and moisture. This, in turn, can lead to an increased number of wrinkles. While washing your face gets rid of daily pollutants, over-washing can wash away your face’s protection against wrinkles. Facial cleanser is also better than soap, which can dry out your skin. If you use soap, be sure it contains skin-protecting moisturizers to keep your skin looking its best.