‘Nail’ commandments

Frustrated that you can't get your nails to grow or stay strong? Worry no more! Here are some basic tips on how to get those nails to grow strong and long.

1) Strength:  A good quality nail strengthener works wonders. It can even be used as a base coat before you apply a coat of colour.

2) Curbing chipped nails: Love how your nails look when you've just painted them, but if you can't get your nail polish to stay on for more than a couple of days here’s what to do. Two words – Base Coat! It's one the most important things when applying nail polish. Also, make sure to paint the edges of your nails on all fingers ensuring longer lasting nail polish. These two tips will help deter chipping while creating a smooth finish.

When wearing either a pale, bright neon or glitter polish, it's always best to go with a white base coat for a bolder look.

3) Two-minute Tip:  Don't have time for a manicure? Don't worry, just make sure to push your cuticles back in your shower and have your nails evenly shaped –whether they are short or long.

This not only helps clean the areas around the nail bed, but also allows the nail to look bigger and well taken care of. Always carry a mini nail file in your wallet, incase your nails split or chip.

4) Stain Stress? This can be easily removed with a bit of baking powder and water. Make a thick paste and apply on nails. Give them a good scrub with a nail brush. Nail brushes are super handy especially if you've got long nails or in case you work a lot with your hands.

Those are your four steps to getting those nails to look near perfect in just a few minutes!

The writer is a Bengaluru-based nail expert.