The Essentials of Nails

Maybe my brain has been affected from the constant inhalation of nail polish and remover, but something about looking down at my nails amidst a hectic week and seeing them impeccably done gives me peace of mind. If your nails are on point, your life is on point! 

Okay, this isn’t necessarily true, but at least something is put-together, and that’s a good thing. 

As a student, I don’t really have time (or the money!) to keep up with nail appointments, or trips to the spa. Doing them myself has been just as enjoyable; it’s a great way to treat yourself, appreciate your nails (short, long, bitten – they’re all lovely!) and to, most importantly, “productively” procrastinate.

Getting started is intimidating. There are all kinds of polishes, brands, and removers. These days there are fuzzy, matte, holographic, sugar polishes and everything in between. But I assure you, navigating the nail world is easier than it looks.

1. Have the basic tools

These need not be expensive! At the very very least, have nail clippers and a nail file. You’d be surprised how many people come to college without them. However, nail maintenance kits are easily available and relatively cheap. Most contain some variation of nail clippers, a nail file, tweezers, scissors, and a cuticle pusher. 

This adorable little kit is $4.80 at Forever 21.

Next, nail polish remover, cotton balls, and cotton swabs are vital. When it comes to nail polish remover, use your discretion. I like to keep one acetone and one non-acetone remover, but choose them based on your own needs.

The clear coat is essential! Whether it’s a base, top coat, or base+top coat combination, this is where I am comfortable splurging. The top coat can help correct minor mistakes, or just help a nail polish really stay glossy.

Finally, nail polish drying spray changed my life. It seems that no matter how long you wait, your nail polish never gets just dry enough. Get one, and you will no longer have to worry about a smudge randomly appearing eight hours after applying these. They’re also surprisingly cheap – there’s a variety available for less than five dollars.

2. Find your color(s)

I have many, many colors in many shades…I am honestly a little obsessed with buying nail polish. However, when it comes to actually wearing them, I gravitate towards light pinks, corals, and salmons. It should be one that looks phenomenal on your hands, and makes you happy to look at. Whether it’s nude, fuchsia, clear, or lime green does not matter, as long as you feel great wearing it.

3. Practice makes perfect

Have a friend help (it’s a great bonding experience!) or just keep painting your nails. I assure you, it gets easier the more you do it. And if your nail painting is akin to a four year old’s success in staying in the lines, don’t worry. That’s what nail polish remover is for!

4. Get funky

It’s never been easier to try new nail designs. Nail kits are available everywhere,  and YouTube tutorials and nail art blogs are all the rage. For me, getting funky is a French tip in an unconventional color or a matte top coat on colors I already own. Don’t be afraid to experiment, whether it’s with a color that seems dramatically unlike you, or a glow-in-the-dark nail polish for a night out! 

Whether you’re an avid nail-painter who needs to change colors every 2-3 days or you prefer to keep your nails bare, something about healthy, clean, and presentable nails makes you feel just a little bit more ready to take on life.