Even when things are chaotic around me, having manicured nails makes me feel like I still have it together. Unfortunately, it is when things are chaotic that I don’t often have the time to get a manicure. However, I’ve got the process down to take minimal time and thought I’d share!

I first use a cuticle pusher to make my nails look better groomed (to keep them healthy I don’t remove the cuticle). For shaping, I use an emeryl nail file because I find my nails chip less.  Sometimes I use a nail buffer to smooth down the nail surface, but try not to overdo it as it thins out my nails. Unless I’m using a high pigment nail polish, I usually skip the basecoat. What I don’t skip is a topcoat with a quick dry formula (I like the Orly topcoat quick dry). I’ve also been using the Salon Perfect plumping gel top coat. It gives you the “plumped" salon look and doesn’t take long to dry. Layering it over the quick dry formula also adds to that plumping effect.

I will be posting a video of the process in a future blog.

Essie nail polish in “tinted love" & Salon Perfect plumping gel top coat