I figured since I have been at this nail polish thing for quite a while that I would share some tips, tricks and secrets I have learned along the way.
These are going to be very random and an ongoing list:
1. When applying a lighter color of polish over a dark one ( ie: stamping or crackle) and you do not want the bleed through, put a clear coat on before applying the lighter color.
For example: pink nail bed with a white or silver image. The lighter color will pick up the darker, and ruin your art
2. Before using a large stamp or water marble manicure, cover your skin with scotch tape, white glue or petroleum jelly. This will create a barrier between your skin and polish. When you are done, just remove it and you will have less clean up time.
3. Always use a base coat! It lessens your chances of staining your nails.
4. If you do stain your nails because of a dark polish, I have found that after removing the polish with acetone I will put white nail polish over my bare nails and leave it on for about 15 minutes. Then I take it off, usually the stains disappear or at least lighten.
In the event that the stains do not come out a soak in a paste made from peroxide and baking soda or vinegar and lemon juice usually does the trick.
5. MOISTURIZE often. (I have said it before and I'll say it again.)
Moisturizing prevents cracking which can lead to infection. Dry hands aren't pretty and are often uncomfortable. Be sure to use a good lotion though, one with glycerin, shea butter or lanolin is a good bet.
