By Shahnaz Husain
The only way to protect the nails and keep them looking good is to give them regular care. However, for most of us, the main problem is that nail polish does not last long enough. The polish starts chipping within two days. So what should one do to make nail varnish last longer? Make sure that the nails are thoroughly clean. Use a lemon to remove oils and clean the nails. If the nails are weak and brittle, nourish the nails by applying and massaging warm almond oil or coconut oil.
After soaking your hands in water, ensure that the nails dry before applying nail polish. This is because soaking the hands in water expands them and polish does not last. After shaping your nails, remember to “buff” them with a piece of chamois leather. Buffing is done by rubbing the nails with the chamois leather, which will be available at a cosmetic store. Buffing helps to make nails smooth after filing them. If the edges are rough after filing, nail polish starts chipping very soon.
Use good quality nail polish. Apply it using smooth strokes, from the base of the nails to the tip. Three long strokes should be adequate to cover each nail. First apply it in the middle of the nail and then on either side. Two coats of colour will be needed for an even finish. First apply one coat of colour on all the nails. Wait for it to dry and then apply the second coat of colour. It is important for the polish to dry totally.
For sun protection, use a clear, transparent nail polish as a top coat over the colour you have used. It will also prevent your nail polish from peeling or chipping. You can always touch up the top coat after a few days to prevent the polish from chipping or peeling.
If you have nails which break easily, avoid frosted nail polish. If there is any infection or pain, avoid filing the nails and using nail polish. Get medical attention first. Fungal infection of the nails is quite common. For strong nails, your daily diet should have adequate calcium, sulphur, amino acids, phosphorous, Vitamins B and E. These are available from milk and milk products, whole grains (unprocessed wheat and rice), eggs, sprouts, dals, beans, peas, fruits and vegetables.
About Shahnaz Husain
Shahnaz Husain, pioneer of the Ayurvedic beauty movement, heads the Shahnaz Husain Group, with a global network of franchise ventures and 375 Ayurvedic formulations. A Case Study at Harvard for Brand Creation, she is now a Harvard Subject for “Emerging Markets” She was honored with the Padma Shri Award and is the first woman in 105 years to receive the World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur Award from Success, the U.S. business magazine. Indeed, Shahnaz Husain is a leading international beauty Icon!
