Start by cleaning and shaping your nails. Remove any old polish and trim and file your nails to your desired shape and length. Applying a base coat helps protect your nails from staining and provides a smooth surface for the accessories to adhere to. Allow the base coat to dry completely. Select the nail accessories you want to use, such as stickers, gems, or foils. If using nail stickers, carefully peel the sticker of its backing and apply it to the desired area of your nail. Press it down firmly to ensure it adheres well. If needed, use a nail file to gently trim any excess sticker. For nail gems and accents, apply a small drop of nail glue or clear top coat to the desired area of your nail where you want to place the gem or accent. Use tweezers or a dotting tool to pick up the gem or accent and carefully place it onto the nail. Press down gently to secure it.

Apply a thin layer of nail foil adhesive to your nails and let it dry until it becomes tacky. Gently press the foil onto your nails, making sure the design side is facing up. Rub the foil gently to transfer the design onto the nails. Peel off the foil to reveal the design.

Cut the nail wraps to the appropriate size for your nails. Peel off the backing and place the wrap onto your nail, starting from the cuticle and smoothing it out towards the tip of the nail. Use a cuticle pusher or orange wood stick to press down and eliminate any air bubbles or wrinkles.

After applying your accessories, apply a layer of clear top coat over your nails to seal in the design and provide added durability. Allow your nails to dry thoroughly.

Remember to always follow any specific instructions or recommendations provided with the specific nail accessory you are using, as application methods may vary. Practice and experimentation will also help you achieve optimal results with the different nail accessories.

To take care of nail accessories and keep them in good condition, consider these tips:

• Clean them regularly.
• Store them properly.
• Avoid harsh chemicals. Nail accessories can be sensitive to harsh chemicals or solvents, so it’s important to avoid contact with them. This includes acetone-based nail polish removers, strong cleaning agents, or any other harsh substances that could potentially damage or discolour the accessories.
• Be gentle when handling. When applying or removing nail accessories, handle them carefully to avoid bending, cracking, or breaking them. If you have long or sharp nails, be even more cautious to prevent accidentally damaging your accessories.
• Protect them during activities. Certain activities, such as washing dishes, gardening, or engaging in intense physical work, can put stress on your nails and accessories. Consider wearing protective gloves to shield your nails and prevent unnecessary damage or chipping.
• Avoid excessive heat or sun exposure. Prolonged exposure to heat or direct sunlight can cause some nail accessories to warp or discolour. Store them away from direct sunlight or heat sources to keep them in their best condition.
• Replace when necessary. Over time, nail accessories can wear out or lose their lustre. If you notice any signs of deterioration or damage, it’s best to replace them promptly to maintain the overall appearance of your manicure.

By following these tips, you can help prolong the lifespan and appearance of your nail accessories, ensuring they look their best whenever you use them.

• Wear gloves or be extra cautious when cooking with spices such as turmeric or curry powders as they can stain the nails. Be as gentle as you would be with your natural nails. Hitting or banging your hands or feet on a hard surface can damage and break your gel nails as it would do to your natural nails. Dye from new jeans or newly coloured hair can also stain gel polish.
• Do not use your hands to eat (considering our Indian cuisine has turmeric and other spices that can stain the polish) especially if your polish is of a lighter shade.
• Do not let your nails stay in the water for long hours (for example – long baths, swimming, and washing)
• Avoid picking or peeling the polish however tempting it might be as this could damage your natural nails.
• Do moisturize regularly with either a good cuticle oil or just regular moisturizing lotion.
• Do give a gap once you remove your gel polish/extensions and give your nails time to breathe (this goes concerning even normal nail polish)
• Treat textured and 3D accessories with care to preserve their intricate details. Avoid rough handling to prevent damage or loss of texture.
• Clean customizable accessories regularly using a gentle solution. For textured elements, use a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris.
• Store your accessories in separate compartments to prevent scratching and tangling. Keep them away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to maintain their integrity.
• Ensure your nails are clean and dry before sticking. Use a top coat for added durability and shine. Be mindful of the chemicals present in nail polish removers, as they may affect the texture and finish of your accessories. Opt for gentle, acetone-free removers when possible.

Read the full story that first appeared in Style Speak March 2024 issue here: