How to give your nails the best party-ready DIY manicure
If you don’t have the budget for a professional manicure this party season, don’t stress – follow our tips for a salon-quality DIY manicure.
Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s nearly time to dust off your dancing shoes, glam up and get set for the silly season.
But if professional nail care isn’t quite within your party prep budget, don’t fret – there are easy and affordable DIY manicure options at your fingertips.
After all, the nail care products market has exploded in recent years, with a US market study forecasting $2.25 billion in growth by 2024.
Here, our experts share their top tips (pardon the pun!) for giving your nails the perfect party-ready DIY manicure at home.
Polish or press-ons are best for a party-ready DIY manicure
Celebrity nail artist Oli Antunes says the aim of a DIY manicure is to get as close as possible to recreating a salon-like finish at home.
To achieve it, the Mavala brand ambassador says there are two product formulation frontrunners: nail polish and press-on nails.
“These are the simplest, safest and most accessible DIY manicure options,” Oli says.
“Plus, there’s a wide array of polish colours or stick-on designs to choose from.”
What about a gel or acrylic DIY manicure?
According to Sydney-based nail stylist Skye McIntyre, the downside of a polish or press-on manicure is that even when meticulously applied, it’s likely to only last a few days.
By contrast, a professional gel or acrylic mani can look fabulous for weeks – which is the main reason why DIY gel kits in particular have taken off in recent years.
However, Skye cautions that the outlay on these kits is pricey, and the result is often below expectations.
“Achieving a smooth, durable and aesthetically pleasing result with acrylic or gel polish requires skill and experience, meaning most DIY-ers are unlikely to get that result,” Skye says.
“Plus, gel and acrylic formulas contain strong chemical substances; if not applied or removed properly, it can cause skin irritation, allergies, or damage to your natural nails.”
The bottom line? “Seek out a trained nail technician for a safe, quality gel or acrylic manicure service,” Skye suggests.
How to nail a DIY manicure and polish
You’ll need cuticle oil, a cuticle stick, nail file, nail buffer, base and top coat, setting spray, and your favourite festive colour in polish.
1. Prepare your nails
On clean nails, apply cuticle oil to treat and soften the cuticles then gently push back with a cuticle stick, creating a neat nail contour.
2. Buff and shape
Shape each nail with a file using long, sweeping curves from side to centre.
Next, buff the nails using light, delicate movements in one direction on the nail plate.
3. Apply polish
Apply a base coat followed by a thin layer of your chosen polish – aim for long, even strokes.
Allow two minutes’ drying time before adding a second thin coat.
4. Finish off
Finish with a top coat for gloss and hold, followed by a fast-drying spray to reduce smudging.
Expert guide to a DIY manicure with press-on nails
You’ll need a nail buffer and press-on nail kit (which contains nails, cuticle stick, file and nail glue)
1. Prepare your nails
On clean nails, use a cuticle stick to gently push back cuticles – this will ensure a snug fit for the press-ons.
2. Buff and shape
Use a file to shape your natural nails, then gently buff the nail surface – this helps the press-on nails to adhere.
3. Choose your fit
Lay out the press-ons in size order and select the ones that best match the shape of your natural nails.
4. Apply press-ons
Place a small amount of nail glue onto the back of a press-on.
Carefully align the press-on at the base of your natural nail and firmly hold it in place for a few seconds to allow the glue to bond; repeat on all nails.
How to make your party nails last after a DIY manicure
A few simple maintenance steps can help make your DIY manicure last longer.
“Regularly applying a cuticle oil and hand cream hydrates the natural nails, and encourages the polish or enhancements to remain tough and flexible,” Skye says.
She also suggests “refreshing the shine and extending the life of polish by reapplying a clear top coat every few days”.
Beyond nail care, Skye also suggests treating your manicured hands with care in your daily life, for instance by “wearing gloves when gardening or cleaning”.
“Also, avoid tapping on surfaces, prising objects apart or scratching off stickers as this can cause premature damage or weakening of your manicure.”
More on nail trends and looking after your nails:
- The best nail art designs to try
- Nail trends we’re all loving – even men
- Expert tips to prep your hands and nails for summer
- Why you need to try a Russian manicure
Written by Sharon Hunt.
