We all need a little ‘at home’ pampering every once in a while.
Some of us just don’t have the time to book into a beauty salon and get a manicure and pedicure. That’s where my at home mani/pedi routine will come in handy for those days where you feel like treating yourself and don't have much time.
Step one
Remove any old nail varnish and residue from your nails and toe nails using a nail varnish remover. Then fill two large bowls (one for feet and one for hands) with warm water and a few squirts of lemon juice. Lemon juice will help brighten your nails and keep them strong. Let your hands and feet rest for five minutes in the bowl, remove and then gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher.
Step two
Using a foot file remove any dead skin from the soles of your feet and buff gently for soft soles - my favourite foot file is the Margaret Dabb’s Superior foot file (margaretdabbs.co.uk). It is perfect for a professional-feel pedicure and also comes with four replacement pads. To exfoliate your hands I recommend using an specialised exfoliator. The L’occitane One Minute hand scrub is fast acting and leaves your hands feeling soft. But you can make your own with some sugar and essential oils.
Step three
Buff and file your nails. To make life easier I like to use the Stylfile. It is an s-shaped file that creates a perfect and professional oval shape to your nails. Buff your nails with a soft buffer - buffing creates a smooth base for your nail polish to glide on too.
Step four
Apply a base coat and then your chosen shade of choice - pastel and nude shades are a big hit this season. For fast drying nail varnish try the brand Seche - their Nude Crème is a muted creamy polish which looks gorgeous worn on fingers and toes. Finish off with a top coat to ensure your home mani/pedi lasts.
Step Five
Once your nail varnish is dry, it is important to moisturise the skin on your feet and hands. Spritz on some Margaret Dabb’s intensive treatment foot oil - it smells great and leaves your feet soft and nourished. Don't forget to apply a luxurious hand and nail cream too - this will keep your skin and cuticles moisturised.
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