Use a B3F, or “3 free” nail polish and base/top coat. These polishes contain no formaldehyde, DBP, or toluene, and are becoming a standard in the industry. They are safer than polishes that contain these chemicals. [1] X Research source [2] X Research source Glittery polish lasts longer. [3] X Research source When looking for white nail polish, find one that is thick and creamy, not opaque. Quick-dry nail polish can be convenient, but it tends to dry out your nails. [4] X Research source
Apply petroleum jelly to your cuticles and the skin around your nails to protect them from polish.
If you are painting your nails a neon color, use a white base coat to make the color pop. [17] X Research source You can use a clear polish with glitter as your topcoat for a little extra glitz. Glittery polishes also have the advantage of lasting longer. [18] X Research source
Put a drop of polish at the base of the nail, slightly above the cuticle. Push the drop back a bit with your brush until it is almost touching your cuticle, then pull it in a smooth, straight stroke to the tip of your nail. Move the brush back to where you started, just above your cuticle. In another smooth stroke, swipe it over the curve of the left side of your nail. Repeat the same process on the right side of your nail. Erase any mistakes you make with a small brush (an old lip brush, for example) dipped in nail polish remover. [21] X Research source
Spray your nails with cooking oil to help the polish set faster, and protect against accidental smudging. [25] X Research source Don’t use a fan. It may seem like a clever way to dry your nails quickly, but it can cause bubbles in your nail polish. [26] X Research source
