I get asked ALL the time ” You change your nail polish every time I turn around, how can your nails possibly look so healthy!?” These are my steps to not having my nails fall off and keeping natural nails looking healthy.

Do moisturize when you use anti-bacterials: I am big on germs. I don’t like not cleansing my hands pretty often, but sometimes you just can’t. I love my Bath & Body Works anti-bacterial hand lotion. It keeps my hands moisturized unlike alcohol versions. I throw it in my purse and don’t think twice.

Don’t fear cuticle remover: Now, to inform you from the beginning, it is very VERY rare I ever trim my cuticles. I usually only do that when they are severely damaged. Maybe once a year. I am against it because I don’t think its sanitary plus it tends to be bad for my nails. ANYWAYS! I love my cuticle remover. I get a huge bottle of it from Sally’s Beauty Supply and use it when my cuticles start looking a bit ragged. It softens, removes, and moisturizes.

This is my current favorite, and yes, its huge.

Do use nail oil: This is an awesome nail moisturizer and it will keep not just your nails but also your cuticles moisturized. I buy multiple types and switch them out. I like variety. You can also use regular olive oil, which I often do while traveling. Another option is rubbing petroleum jelly into nails before bed. They will be wonderfully moisturized when you awaken.

Hands down my favorite vaseline. Smells good too.

A few oils, not a fan of the Nutra Nail. Love my HaKen one (middle) which is $3.99 and I have it in Peach from Sally’s Beauty Supply.

Don’t file your nails into submission: These are the basics, but they’re still very important. DON’T SAW BACK AND FORTH! File in one direction until your nails are shaped to your liking. If you notice splitting or peeling, take care of it before you continue filing.  Use a nail file correct for the job. Have multiple types, thicker for filing down large amounts and I really like my crystal/glass files for day to day

A random assortment, I have around 50 billion laying around my house.

Do trim them when the time comes: Don’t try to keep your nails long because they’re pretty. Eventually, all beautiful nails become ragged and need to be trimmed. Don’t fight it, just remember they grow back.

Don’t abuse your cuticles: When you push back your cuticles, it should NOT hurt. They need to be healthy, not damaged. If your cuticles are sensitive, start out with a rubber tipped pusher.

Do recognize a problem: Know what your normal nails are like. Are they ridged? Do you get white spots easily? Are they often discolored? Get on a one-on-one basis with your nails so you can recognize an issue.

Don’t overestimate your nails: If you have weak nails, use a hardener. Have discolored nails, use a brightener. Nails that simply don’t grow, use a growth treatment. I switch between all of these and more. These are a part of my drugstore collection. My favorite right now is my Sally Hansen Hard As Wraps with Acrylic Gel and Nylon.

Do know the facts about acetone: This is my opinion. A lot of people say acetone removers are too harsh, but I disagree. If you have stubborn nail polish (glitter, flakes, jeweled) then this is a miracle worker. As long as I moisturize and care for my nails as usual, I have absolutely no issues.

This is an off-the-top-of-my-head list, I’m sure there will be more. I know I have more tips and tricks I’m coming up with for manicures so stay tuned!