Taking care of your nails at home is not just economical – it’s also fun! Whether you are a beginner or have already tried doing a manicure at home, this guide will help you understand what materials you need, which technique suits you, and how to carry out each step safely and successfully.

What will you need?

The choice of materials depends on the result you want to achieve and on your experience. Below you will see the main categories of materials and how they are used:

1. Nail polish (classic polish)

• Ideal for beginners.

• Dries on its own, without a lamp.

• Removes easily with regular acetone.

• Usually lasts 2-3 days.

Tip: If you want to extend its wear, use a top coat as well.

2. Semi-permanent polish

• A durable and glossy option that lasts up to 3 weeks.

• Requires a UV or LED lamp to cure (harden).

• Removed with acetone and a special process: cotton soaked in acetone and wrapped with aluminum foil or using special clips.

• You can do it yourself with a little practice.

Tip: Be careful when removing it; do not pick at the material so you don’t damage your natural nail. Let the acetone act for at least 10-15 minutes.

3. Gel / Acrylic / Acrygel

• Suitable for strengthening or extending nails.

• Gel cures in a lamp and is easy to work with.

• Acrylic consists of a liquid and a solid part. The thick paste created by combining these two hardens on its own in the air without the use of a UV/LED lamp.

• Acrygel is a combination of the two, offering greater durability and flexibility. It is easy to use for home application and requires curing.

Tips: 

• Not all materials suit all nails; experiment until you find what works for you.

• To add length, you will need forms (special bases for extensions). Start with a short length for better control.

Step-by-Step Manicure Guide

1. Removal of old material

• For regular nail polish: remove it with cotton and acetone.

• For semi-permanent/gel: place cotton soaked with acetone on each nail, wrap it with aluminum foil or clips, leave it for about 15 minutes, and remove the semi-permanent with a metal or wooden pusher. Alternatively, you can use a nail drill.

Tip: If you choose to use a drill to remove the material, make sure to handle it carefully so you do not damage your natural nail.

2. Cuticle cleaning

• Gently push back the cuticles with a metal or wooden pusher.

• Cut the excess skin with a cuticle nipper, if needed (be careful not to injure the skin).

Tip: The cuticle trimming process should not hurt at all. Do not cut too deeply, as they will bleed. 

3. Filing and preparation

• File the nails into the shape you want (square, almond, oval).

• Use a buffer to lightly mattify the surface.

• Remove the dust with a brush.

4. Application of products for semi-permanent manicure

1. Primer (optional) – Helps the materials adhere better.

2. Base Coat – Protects the natural nail and prepares it for polish.

3. Builder Gel/Acrylic/Acrygel (optional) – For strengthening or slight extension.

4. Color (semi-permanent) – 2-3 thin coats.

5. Nail Art – If you want to add glitter, rhinestones, stickers, etc., do it before the top coat.

6. Top Coat – Seals the result and adds shine.

Tip: Each semi-permanent layer should be cured in the lamp for 60-90 seconds (depending on the lamp and the product).

 Application of products for regular nail polish

1. Base Coat (regular) – Protects the natural nail

2. Color (regular) 2-3 thin coats.

3. Nail Art – If you want to add glitter, rhinestones, stickers, etc., do it before the top coat.

4. Top Coat (regular) – Seals the result and adds shine.

Tip: Apply thin layers of the products, allowing them to dry well in between.

5. Finishing

• After the final curing, clean the nail surface with cleaner or acetone to remove the sticky layer of the semi-permanent. Do not apply this to regular nail polish.

• Apply cuticle oil for hydration.

Extra Tips for a Perfect Result

• Clean surfaces = Good application: Make sure your nails are completely dry and clean before you start.

• Don't overload: Apply thin layers of product – they dry better and last longer.

• Avoid the skin: When applying color, be careful not to touch the cuticles. If it happens, clean immediately with a stick or a brush with cleaner.

• Safety first: Work in a well-ventilated area, especially if you are using acetone or acrylic.

With a little practice, you can have salon-quality nails without leaving your home. And the best part? They are completely tailored to your own style!

Good luck and… happy manicuring!