The Surprising Steps That Make for a Healthier Nail Spa Experience

Step 2: Remind Yourself Why You’re Doing This

I’ve had this issue my entire life, and I finally got real with myself. The way I thought about touching my nails was bad, and it was eating me alive. Not only did I need to be mindful of not rubbing my skin as much, but I needed to keep myself accountable. My end goal was not only to not hurt myself anymore but to eliminate all of my future nail issues.

Step 3: Pick a Professional Master Technician Who Is About to Change Your Life

The most rewarding part about visiting salons is the high level of professionalism, but, more importantly, how much it makes me feel like a princess. Would the thought of being a princess ever fill me with the same feelings? Now it does. The skill that a professional nail technician possesses can transform my life, so I started by picking a professional owner who could help me in no time flat.

Step 4: Visit Your Spa of Choice

When I finally set foot in a salon, I wanted to be like every girl in there. One, I needed to have an apron and get a nice haircut, and two, I was obsessed with polish and extensions, so I needed to make sure I looked the part, and that’s exactly what I did. A salon with minimal brand names is a great place to go.

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Step 5: Channel Your Inner Sheryl Sandberg and Ditch the Nail Art at All Costs

I love nail art, but I’m an adult now, and I understand that the most important thing is letting my nails grow out naturally. My nail art can get old and outdated and people can get sick of it. I don’t believe in ripping off someone else’s style. Nail art is fun, but at the end of the day, make sure your nails don’t turn into crusty candy because you’re getting them cut! No mani or pedi can erase the fact that you are either overworked or underworked — a combination of both definitely sucks. And, to keep your nails looking long, constant exfoliation is key. (Sorry, but that’s a fact.)

Step 6: Eat Well for Even Better Nails

Nail care needs to be a priority, and your nails are about to suffer if you don’t use a good shampoo or conditioner. For good, lasting results, always shower before or after a salon appointment and don’t skip it after. Stretching out the time between salon visits will keep the pressure down on your nails, and for those with sensitive skin, apply a gentle base coat before choosing your nail color.

Step 7: Keep It Simple

If you’ve been clean and fresh for hours, your skin is going to thank you, so you can go easy on the polish. Don’t overdo it on polish. When it comes to your coloring, go with less than a few shades, but also add the right amount of gloss to keep the look polished and moisturized.

Step 8: Pick a Tourist Spot

I was usually thrilled with my manicure, but I always felt bad because my nails were chipped. Finally, I made the change by picking an off-the-beaten-path nail salon that is just open on weekends. My nails are now healthy and looking beautiful. I also save money because there are no employees. I just love when the manicurist is amazing.

Step 9: Tune Out the Negative Comments on Snapchat

Long before social media or Snapchat, a selfie or an evening out with friends was considered its own activity in and of itself. That’s why it’s so sad when I see people with big smiles and new nails all the time. No matter how beautiful your nails are, they’ll never compare to a beautiful smile! Oh, and if you’re concerned that your nails could kill you or your fingers, just know that I, too, am full of fear. I’m less afraid than I was when I started because I practice what I preach — even though there’s no way I’m alone.

Step 10: Learn to Say no

If you start getting requests for fake nails and crazy tips, don’t be afraid to say no. My grandmother has great advice for me, and it goes like this: “Don’t dance with a broken leg.” With fake nails comes a lot of responsibility, and I can only blame myself if I end up in an emergency room. A word of warning to all you nail addicts out there, though: you do not want to ruin your nails with heat, so make sure to cool it down and give yourself some downtime.