

You want to have a clean, fresh base for new polish without any residue from your previous manicure. Begin by using ZOYA Remove + to remove existing polish on your nails. Next, you should always wash your hands to rid your nails of any dirt or build-up that could interfere with your application.
Use a cuticle oil like QTICA Solid Gold Anti-Bacterial Oil Gel to soften the cuticles before pushing them back. An orangewood stick is perfect for pushing back your cuticles and cleaning up the edges of your manicure.
Hydrate your hands and nails by using the Hydrate and Heal system. Even if you have freshly polished nails, dry hands will surely ruin your manicure.
This step is crucial to making your manicure last. Without a smooth base, your polish color will fall into the natural cracks and dents in your natural nails, creating an uneven coat of polish. A base ensures smoother application and a longer-lasting finish. To heal the surface of your nails, consider using the The Rescue Repair System as part of your prep routine. It’s composed of two products that work together to treat damaged nails underneath your polish and also works as a base coat. If you don’t use the treatment system, choose a base coat based on your manicure needs.
This step is optional for those that have discoloration on their nails they’d like to neutralize. Naked Manicure Perfectors have a range of shades that you can blend to neutralize and color-correct discoloration on your natural nails. Perfectors can be applied on top of your base coat and worn underneath your polish color.
Feature photo via @mirandachan