Best Non Toxic Nail Salon in Houston

You’re always looking for something new to do that makes your nail art so perfect. Since we know you’re jonesing for that spring tan (which is always a first step towards flawless nails), we chatted with nail expert Melissa Arcarese, board-certified aesthetician at MAC Beverly Hills, about ways to get your nails to that fabulous, jewel-toned perfection.

1. “I used Kerastase Hydro Force Nail Pencil ($17) with Seal Extra Soft Clear Base Coat ($32) before using my dime size.”

“Nails are the canvas for many things — makeup, clothing, precious metals — so how to protect and nurture them is important. When applying a base coat, I recommend using a color with a tone correction because different colors can add color to our nails and coats can change how they look. I recommend using Kerastase Hydro Force Nail Pencil, which is a light, translucent hue. The product is formulated to be a natural, easy to maintain, natural colors.”

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2. “Apply a liquid nail polish ($9) before painting to give your nail on the bottom (edge) the finishing touch without having to powder.”

“The versatility of applying a liquid polish instead of powdering your nails for a perfect finish is a great tip. As a general guideline, we recommend your polish be completely dry on the cuticle to avoid slipping. Once your polish is fully dry, slightly brush a thin edge through the tip to give your nail on the side of your index finger the finishing touch. This technique can also work in reverse.”

3. “Apply your final finishing touch to either side of your base coat.”

“Finish any application with a top coat of your choosing — there are lots of great formulas to choose from.”

4. “Use varying shades of polishes to create different layers.”

“Prep your nail tips with a base coat and follow with a coat of your color of choice. While painting your nails, use a number of alternating shades to create different layers. You will eventually get a color that is rich and beautiful as a result. This technique works especially well in acrylic polish since it is frequently used as the base coat of polish. Each color you use will create different shades and textures, and you will be able to create any effect you want.”

5. “Apply dip or bold. Dipped in clear gloss, apply matte finish to give your color more coverage. Nail art shows off your nail bed even more. Use bold colors to create a defining profile.”

“Nail art is a great way to get noticed in a crowd. Dip a dark color in top coat that is darker than your nail beds. Dip your tips with a color that has a creamy shine. Create your design and apply your colored tips above the base coat.”

6. “Use a pen to coat your entire nail at the end of your application.”

“Take a little at a time throughout the top coat and a little at a time throughout the base coat and gently dust a clear clear gel on the top portion of your finger for a clean, white finish. Spray your nail tip and add a light layer of color to the nail — it will look fierce and feel comfortable!”

7. “Use your top and bottom corners of the nail for a high/low/overtone effect!”

“After coating your entire nail at the top of the nail, spray at the bottom of the nail. Next, dab at the end of the nail using a sponge or small brush. I like using my fingers and holding my nail at a 45-degree angle. This nail tip gives a beautiful, intense color that can be layered and elevated.”

8. “Nail art is best left to specialists.”

“Nail art is best left to specialists — the nail pro. An experienced professional can create the perfect design, and he/she will know how to ensure your design doesn’t mess up the normal polish application or the underside of your nail when you apply the top coat.”

9. “Use a fine-tipped nail file to remove your nails.”

“Use a fine-tipped nail file to remove any excess color from your base coat or gloss (at the beginning of your application) or polish (at the end of your application). The line of your base or gloss stays will always be cleaner if you use a file. Just keep your nail using just the nail tip.”

10. “Create a “Tulip” design with a click of your nail pad.”

“Create a tulip design with the base coat or a gloss by clicking your nail pad on your acrylic top coat, and be sure the base color stays at the top of your nail. Apply to your nails and smooth down the edges. Remember, just any photo-perfect piece