Once upon a time I could financially justify a manicure bi-weekly. Let's just all have a moment of silence for my former self, shall we?
There's not a whole lot of money growing on my stay-at-home mom money tree these days. If you know what I mean? But winter has a harsh effect on my hands and nails and I just hate it when they get all scraggly. And yes, they do get SCRAGGLY.
Lately I've been using the following products on my hands and nails and it makes a huge difference. After I have trimmed my cuticles and nails as needed...
Step 1
Lather up your hands with your favorite hand lotion, Kiehl's really gets the job done. (Kiehl's Hand & Body Lotion, Barney's, $19.50)
Step 2
Clean up a bit... wipe your palms of any extra lotion and take a Q-tip with nail polish remover to your finger nails to remove any lotion residue. This will help your polish last longer.
Step 3
Apply one coat of Sally Hansen's "Hard as Wraps" polish. This makes your nails very strong and shiny and lasts for about a week! This formula comes in a few colors as well if you are more of a color person. I personally prefer a natural look.
Step 4
After your polish has dried, liberally apply Solar Oil to your cuticles and let it settle in for about 2 - 3 minutes. Then rub it in. The oil will soften your cuticles for a "just from the salon look." This is my most favorite step!
That's my five minute manicure! Enjoy!