5 Pro Nail Tips for a Lasting Manicure

There’s nothing like a fresh mani to make you feel pretty and pampered. We’re swooning over CND’s 2017 Holiday Collection, Glacial Illusion, which includes fun shades like Mystic Slate and, our fave, Radiant Chill (a chrome-tastic pink). While we explored the new line, CND nail technician Denise Arnold provided us with these helpful tips to make sure your manicure lasts. —Rachel Johnston

moisturize your cuticles. There’s no such thing as too much. In the winter months, aim for a few times a day.

don’t use your hands as tools. Your results will only last as long as you avoid chip-inducing circumstances. When it’s time to get down to business (those pots won’t scrub themselves), throw on some gloves.

choose your polish wisely. If you lead a busy life and don’t have time for maintenance, Shellac is the way to go (it typically lasts two weeks). But if you get bored easily and often change colour to match your outfits, stick to regular polish, which averages three days of good wear. A third option: try a long-wear polish like Vinylux. When properly applied with CND’s Weekly Top Coat, this one lasts seven days and (bonus!) becomes more durable over time with exposure to natural light.

protect from the cold. Invest in a cute new pair of gloves or mittens this winter. Even Vancouver’s mild climate can cause dryness in the chilly months.

use a topcoat. The final layer is there for a reason and it’s exactly what you might think: to seal the colour in and prevent chipping. Top coats can also add a cool finish like festive glitter, matte or classic pearl.

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