15 Minute Mommy Manicure

How To Give Yourself A 15 Minute Mommy Manicure

When you become a mother, there’s no longer time to do the things that once kept you sane. Going out with friends is replaced with changing dirty diapers. Relaxing brunch and mimosas don’t fit the schedule when you have tykes to take care of in the morning. Simple luxuries, like getting your nails done by a manicurist, fall by the wayside; however, just because you can’t find time to go to the manicurist, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fabulous nails.

If you can find 15 minutes in your busy schedule, then you have time to transform your frumpy nails into polished and pretty fingers.

Think About Trends

Being a mother doesn’t mean you have to be out of touch with the newest fashion styles in nail care. Every season, there is a new trend in nail styles that quick research can reveal. You don’t even have to catch up on your fashion magazines to get the latest nail design tips. The Huffington Post often publishes the new nail polish trends for every season, and there are hundreds of blogs devoted to nail art and the latest fashions.

Measure Your Nails

Uneven nails will drive you crazy. If you are a nail biter or frequently break your nails, chances are they won’t all be the same length. Begin by cutting your nails to be the same size. The overall results will look much better because of it.

The Right Shape

Not all nail shapes are created equal. If you want your nails to be strong, avoid pointed or rounded nails because they break easily. For a bold look, you can try square nails; however, unless your fingers are very slender, you could end up looking plumper than you are. Square nails with rounded corners are popular with manicurists because they hold strong.

A Good Rinsing

You won’t believe how dirty you nails can get. With all the messy work you do as a mother, your nails end up covered with dirt and grease, even when you can’t see it. Rinse away oil residues with a combination of water and rubbing alcohol. It will ensure that the nail polish stays on longer.

The First Layer

Once you pick your perfect nail color, it’s time to apply the first layer. Don’t spread it on too thick as the nail polish could end up on the skin around your nails. A thin layer is good enough. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect. You can fix it later.

Creating the Perfect Shade

Wait a few minutes before slathering on the next coat. Usually, it is recommended to wait 5 minutes between layers, but if you are on a time crunch, you can use a fan to speed up the drying process. Once the first layer is dry, put on a second coat. You can even go for a third layer if you want a darker shade.

Cuticle Oil

The skin around your nails can lose moisture after a manicure. The solution: cuticle oil. Use a cotton ball with the oil to moisturize your cuticles for a better looking and feeling manicure.

Make Your Manicure Last

As a mother, it’s hard to avoid activities that will keep your manicure from getting chipped. A clear top coat will keep your nails looking great for a few days. Then, you can apply a clear nail strengthener every few days afterwards for the best results. Soak-off gels are another option for long lasting manicures.

The Finishing Touches

Make your at-home nail care a manicure Miami-style by using a hand cream to protect your skin and keep your hands soft. A manicure just wouldn’t feel the same without it.

Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer in Southern California whose writing offers various tips on nail, skin and hair care. As a mother of three herself, she always finds time to give herself a quick manicure makeover. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter for more tips like these!

Post, pictures and all information provided by Marcela De Vivo.

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