16 Essentials A Nail Artist Swears By
POLISHES, BASES & TOP COATS
The SOS Treatment…
To The Rescue UV Gel Damage Repair Nail Treatment | Essie
This is a recent discovery for me – formulated with a triple protein complex, MSM and ceramides, this budget-friendly treatment visibly improves signs of UV gel damage in just five days and has a shiny, natural-looking finish.
The Salon-Quality Polish…
Le Vernis | Chanel
Luxurious, long-lasting and beautifully pigmented, Chanel’s Le Vernis range is unrivalled. It has been newly reformulated and even the shape of the brush has been upgraded, so it’s easier than ever to apply. My favourites are ‘Ballerina’ – a flattering, sheer pink – and ‘Rouge Noir’, the ultimate vampy red.
The Best Base…
Nail Envy | OPI
OPI’s Nail Envy strengthens your natural nails while simultaneously providing a smooth, uniform base. It also comes in classic, wearable shades such as ‘Bubble Bath’.
The Quick-Dry Top Coat…
Vite Dry Fast Top Coat | Seche
I actually discovered this product via a client, and I’ve been obsessed with it ever since. It’s extremely quick to dry and it gives your nails the perfect glossy finish.
TOOLS
The Budget Hero…
Small Black Files (Pack of 10) | Bio Sculpture
These are the files I am constantly reaching for. They’re 150/220 grit which makes them effective but not too harsh, as well as easy to use.
The Investment Tools…
Katey Super Fine Bladed Nippers | Navy, Ethel Straight-Bladed Manicure Multi-Tool, Doris Curved Manicure Tool
Precise, high-quality tools allow for better nail prep, giving you salon-worthy results. I came across Navy a few years ago and I’m still hooked. I literally can’t do a manicure without them.
The Secret Weapon…
Nail Polish Corrector Pen | Manucurist
This handy pen accurately corrects any minor mistakes you make when applying your nail polish, meaning at-home manicures look more professional. I spotted this backstage at London Fashion Week and it has been a staple in my kit ever since.
NAIL CARE
The Nourishing Balm…
Cuticle Balm | Navy
Full of restorative plant oils and extracts, this balm works brilliantly to soften rough cuticles, plus the scent is amazing.
The Cult Cream…
Shea Butter Hand Cream | L’Occitane
This iconic hand cream is truly unmatched. Each tube is enriched with 20% shea butter, as well as a nourishing blend of argan and coconut oil.
The Conditioning Oil…
Cuticle MD | Elim
If you have dry or damaged cuticles, this is guaranteed to bring them back from the brink. Powered by ten oils, this soothes and hydrates – trust me, you’ll notice the difference.
The Luxurious Scrub…
Vitamin E Scrub | Jo Malone London
A gentle scrub sloughs away dead skin cells, leaving behind a brighter surface, and my favourite – Jo Malone London’s version – makes your hands beautifully soft with a youthful glow.
UNDERRATED ESSENTIALS
The Affordable Hero…
Essie Quick-E Drying Drops
This is such a useful product if you’re wanting to quickly seal in your manicure – it helps polish dry faster and prevents smudging. Simply apply a couple of drops over freshly painted nails.
The Splurge-Worthy Purchase…
Heating Mittens | Gelcare
Heat speeds up the gel soak-off process, so once your nails are wrapped in foils, pop them into these heated mittens for ten minutes and they’ll remove really easily – just don’t forget to buff away the top coat prior to soaking.
The Collagen Booster…
Enhanced Plus – Hydrolysed Marine Collagen Drink | Revive Collagen
As we age, our collagen levels decline, meaning our nails become more brittle. To increase nail strength from the inside out, this is the drinkable supplement I rely on.
The Nail Strengthener…
Ethos Vitamin Dose | Bio Sculpture
If you find your nails are weak and constantly peeling, this vitamin-rich tincture will help rejuvenate the nail plate.
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