Wednesday, July 10, 2013

How To Refresh Your Gel Manicure

Gel manicures—a small step for nail salons, a giant leap for womankind. Or the kind of woman who likes getting her nails did on the regular, anyway.

In the fascinating evolution of nail application, gel manicures are the latest of developments. A nail technician (also known as the #5 on your speed dial) uses a gel to bind synthetic nails to your natural ones, which are then appropriately dolled up, lacquered, and jazzed-and-pizzazzed with all the proper embellishments.

One of the most enduring benefits of the gel manicure is the boastful claim that they "don't chip" (this is an anecdote-by-anecdote assertion—realistically, let's say that it takes roughly a week before you begin noticing any kind of wear and tear). In theory, they last for an average of two weeks. A substantial amount of time used to justify their generally hefty price tag; worth the money compared to other nail treatments.

However, when they start reaching their expiration date, the top coat tends to dull. Instead of continuing to dip into your bank account to freshen up your nails, we're showing you how to do it on your own at home.

All you'll need is…

– Nail file or buffer
– Rubbing alcohol
– Paper towels cut into square pieces
– Top coat