What is a base coat nail polish?

A base coat nail polish is a clear or opaque polish that is applied before the colored nail polish. Its purpose is to provide a smooth, even surface for the color to adhere to and to help the color polish last longer.

Why do I need to use a base coat nail polish?

Using a base coat nail polish helps to protect your nails from the pigments and chemicals in the colored polish, which can cause staining, discoloration, and damage. It also helps to prevent chipping and peeling of the color polish, as it provides a stronger bond between the color and your nails.

How do I apply a base coat nail polish?

To apply a base coat nail polish, start with clean, dry nails. Apply a thin layer of the base coat to each nail, making sure to cover the entire surface. Let the base coat dry completely before applying the colored polish.

Can I use any base coat nail polish with any colored polish?

It is recommended to use a base coat that is formulated to work with the same brand of colored polish, as they are designed to work together for optimal performance. However, you can use a different brand of base coat if needed.

How long should I wait for the base coat nail polish to dry before applying the colored polish?

It is recommended to wait at least 2-3 minutes for the base coat nail polish to dry before applying the colored polish. You can use a quick-drying spray or fan to speed up the drying process.

Using base coat or strengthener?

Let's talk about the difference between a base coat and a nail strengthener – two products that may seem similar but serve different purposes! In a nutshell, a base coat is like a primer for your nails, creating a smooth surface for the nail polish to adhere to and preventing any staining from the colored polish. It often contains ingredients like ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, which help create a protective barrier between your natural nails and the nail polish.

On the other hand, a nail strengthener is like a superhero for your nails, swooping in to rescue weak, brittle, or damaged nails. Nail strengtheners are packed with nourishing ingredients like hydrolyzed keratin and calcium, which work together to fortify your nails on a molecular level. Hydrolyzed keratin, for example, can penetrate the nail plate's layers and bond with the natural keratin in your nails, providing additional strength and resilience.

So, while a base coat focuses on creating a solid foundation for your manicure, a nail strengthener is all about fortifying your nails and promoting their health. Depending on your nail needs, you might choose one over the other, or even use both products in tandem for the ultimate nail care routine! Happy painting!

Does your base coat protect against fungus?

Our base coat formulation contains tea tree oil with powerful antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. Primarily, it helps to maintain the health of the nail and cuticle by combating potential fungal or bacterial infections. The base coat can contribute to overall nail health and appearance by providing this protective layer. It can also help treat common nail issues like fungal nail infections, onychomycosis, and mild cases of nail psoriasis. However, it's always advised to seek professional medical advice for serious conditions.

Why do I need to remove oils before applying a base coat?

It's crucial to remove natural oils from the nail plate before applying a base coat to ensure optimal adhesion of the nail polish. These oils and any dirt or residue can form a barrier between the nail and the base coat, preventing it from properly adhering to the nail surface. This can result in a less durable manicure that chips or peels prematurely. Use a cotton pad soaked in nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol to wipe over each nail. This process will help dissolve and remove any remaining oils or residues. Be sure to let your nails dry completely before moving on to the next step. Remember, it's essential not to touch your nails after you've removed the oils because your fingers also produce oils that can transfer back onto the nail surface. Once your nails are clean and dry, you can apply your base coat, ensuring a smoother application and a longer-lasting manicure.

What do I need for an at-home manicure?

To do an at-home manicure, you will need a few essential tools and products. First, you will need nail clippers and a file to shape your nails. You may also want to use a buffer to smooth out any rough spots on your nails. Next, you will need cuticle remover and a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles. You may also want to use cuticle oil to moisturize your cuticles and nails.

You will also need a base coat, colored nail polish, and a top coat to create your desired look. It's important to choose high-quality nail polish that is long-lasting and chip-resistant. Finally, you may want to use a quick-drying spray or drops to speed up the drying process.

In addition to these tools and products, you may want to create a relaxing atmosphere by lighting candles, playing soothing music, or soaking your hands in warm, soapy water before starting your manicure.

How bad is it to pick my nails? 

While picking nails may seem like a harmless habit, it can actually cause significant damage to your nails and overall health. But don't worry; breaking these habits is essential for maintaining healthy, beautiful nails.

Picking your nails can cause various problems, from minor issues like jagged nails and hangnails to more serious conditions like infections. Picking your nails can cause pain and discomfort, especially if you accidentally remove part of the nail bed or cuticle. When you pick at your nails, you can damage the nail plate, nail bed, and surrounding skin, weakening nails and making them more prone to breakage, splitting, and other issues.

Peeling off artificial nail enhancements, like acrylics, gels, and dip powder, can harm your nails. When you peel off artificial nail enhancements, you can also peel off the top layer of your nail bed, weakening your nails and making them more prone to breakage and other damage. Peeling off artificial nail enhancements can also cause pain and discomfort, especially if you peel them off forcefully. Additionally, peeling off artificial nail enhancements can damage the nail plate, which is the hard, protective layer on top of your natural nail. This can lead to thinning, cracking, and other issues.

Breaking the habit of picking your nails or peeling off artificial nail enhancements can be challenging, but it's important to do so to maintain healthy nails. Try keeping your nails short to reduce the temptation to pick or peel them. You can also use a nail treatment with strengthening ingredients like bamboo extract to help strengthen your nails and prevent breakage. Regular visits to a nail salon can help keep your nails looking healthy and prevent the urge to pick or peel them. And finding alternative ways to manage stress, such as meditation or exercise, can also help to reduce the urge to pick or peel your nails.

Prioritize the health of our nails and avoid engaging in these harmful habits to prevent long-term damage. By following the tips provided above, we can break the habit and enjoy healthy, strong nails for years to come.

Which nail file should I use?

Let's talk about a crucial tool in the nail care world: nail files. These seemingly simple tools come in various shapes, sizes, and grits, and knowing which one to use can make a world of difference when it comes to maintaining the health and integrity of your natural nails. So, let's dive into the technical details of nail files!

Nail files are typically categorized by grit, which refers to the number of abrasive particles per square inch. The lower the grit number, the coarser the file, and vice versa. For natural nails, it's essential to use a file with a higher grit number, ranging from 180 to 240 grit. These finer files gently shape and smooth the nail edges without causing excessive damage or weakening the nail plate. Using a coarser file with a lower grit number (like 80-100 grit) can cause micro-tears and splits in the natural nail, leading to breakage and peeling over time.

When you're at the salon or doing your own nails, make sure you know which file is being used on your natural nails. Don't hesitate to ask your nail technician about the grit of the file they're using, and if necessary, request a file with a higher grit number. By being proactive and informed, you can ensure that your nails stay strong, healthy, and looking fabulous!

What nail polish remover should I look for?

Let's chat about nail polish removers and clear up some misconceptions about acetone, which often gets a bad rap. Nail polish removers come in two main types: acetone-based and non-acetone. While both types are effective at removing polish, they have some key differences.

Acetone-based removers are known for their quick and efficient polish removal, thanks to acetone being a powerful and fast-acting solvent. Acetone is an organic compound that easily dissolves nail polish, making it a go-to choice for many when it comes to polish removal. On the other hand, non-acetone removers use alternative solvents, like ethyl acetate, which are gentler but may require more time and effort to remove the polish.

Now, let's address the concern that acetone is bad for your nails. While it's true that acetone can be drying, it's not inherently harmful to your nails when used correctly. In fact, acetone is naturally produced and present in our bodies as a byproduct of metabolism. The key to using acetone-based nail polish removers without causing damage is moderation and proper nail care. Avoid excessive exposure to acetone, and always follow up with a nourishing cuticle oil or hand cream to replenish any lost moisture.

So, acetone isn't the nail villain it's often made out to be. Just remember to use it responsibly, and your nails will stay healthy, strong, and ready for your next fabulous polish!

How do I know if the products I'm using are safe?

When it comes to choosing beauty products, safety should always be a top priority. But how can you be sure the products you're using are safe? Let's chat about some tips and tricks to help you make informed decisions and ensure the products you're using are not only effective but also kind to you and the environment.

One great way to start is by looking for the Leaping Bunny symbol on product packaging. This internationally recognized symbol signifies that the product is cruelty-free and has not been tested on animals. Supporting brands with the Leaping Bunny certification is a fantastic way to promote ethical and responsible beauty practices.

In addition to animal testing concerns, you'll also want to be mindful of the ingredients used in your beauty products. Some ingredients may be toxic or potentially harmful, so it's essential to check the labels and do a little research. A handy tool to help you navigate the world of beauty product ingredients is the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) Skin Deep database. By simply searching a product or ingredient on their website (www.ewg.org/skindeep/), you can access information about potential hazards, toxicity levels, and safety concerns.

So, next time you're shopping for beauty products, keep an eye out for the Leaping Bunny symbol and use resources like the EWG Skin Deep database to help you make safe and informed choices. Happy shopping, and here's to a healthier beauty routine!

Using base coat or strengthener?

Let's talk about the difference between a base coat and a nail strengthener – two products that may seem similar but serve different purposes! In a nutshell, a base coat is like a primer for your nails, creating a smooth surface for the nail polish to adhere to and preventing any staining from the colored polish. It often contains ingredients like ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, which help create a protective barrier between your natural nails and the nail polish.

On the other hand, a nail strengthener is like a superhero for your nails, swooping in to rescue weak, brittle, or damaged nails. Nail strengtheners are packed with nourishing ingredients like hydrolyzed keratin and calcium, which work together to fortify your nails on a molecular level. Hydrolyzed keratin, for example, can penetrate the nail plate's layers and bond with the natural keratin in your nails, providing additional strength and resilience.

So, while a base coat focuses on creating a solid foundation for your manicure, a nail strengthener is all about fortifying your nails and promoting their health. Depending on your nail needs, you might choose one over the other, or even use both products in tandem for the ultimate nail care routine! Happy painting!

What is the cuticle?

Let's dive into the world of nails and get to know two essential parts: the cuticle and the eponychium.

The cuticle, also known as the stratum corneum, is a thin layer of dead skin cells that form at the base of your nail. It acts as a protective barrier, preventing bacteria and other nasties from sneaking in and causing infections. You can think of the cuticle as a little superhero, safeguarding your nail matrix (where new nail cells are produced) from harm.

Now, let's talk about the eponychium. This term might sound like something straight out of a science fiction movie, but it's actually the living tissue that surrounds the base of your nail. The eponychium contains a high concentration of keratinocytes, which are cells responsible for producing the protein keratin – the building block of your nails and hair. This living tissue plays a crucial role in supporting healthy nail growth and should be treated with care.

So, to sum it up, the cuticle is the thin layer of dead skin cells protecting your nail matrix, while the eponychium is the living tissue surrounding the base of your nail, promoting healthy nail growth. Knowing the difference between these two nail parts can help you better understand and care for your nails.