Nail Prep...

Ok, so you have all of your colors organized and you're ready to go?.....not so fast-- if you don't prep your nails correctly then your paint and time are worthless. I prefer filing my finger nails rather than using a nail clipper because the clipping action can cause stress or minute fractures which will weaken them. I only cut them if they have grown a lot between manicures or if I severely broke one. When I do cut them, I usually make them a little longer so I can file and shape with better control. I have found that filing has lessened breaking and splitting a little. I usually use fine grain emery boards- I have tried the glass and metal types and I don't feel that my nails are as smooth as the emery boards. Just in case you're wondering, only push your cuticles back if they are wet, you're less likely to cause damage so right after a shower or soak them for a few minutes in warm water.. Use a cuticle remover and an orange stick to push them back. And above all else, moisturize, uncared for cuticles are prone to hangnails.

Some things to keep in mind:
* Make sure your nails are completely dry before filing- wet nails are weak nails.
*Avoid using metal nail files because they are way too rough/coarse.
* Apply minimum pressure and file in one direction.
* Clip only when necessary, start on one corner- never in the center. 
* M O I S T U R I Z E  often.

                   You have to find what works best for you.
After filing, I coat my nails with a base coat of either " Nutra Nail Green Tea" or "Nail Aid Ultra Fast Growth," before polishing.