SALON NAILS at home

Nail a DIY manicure with our easy and affordable step-by-step guide

- ANNIE MILROY

File & shape

The prep work is one of the most important parts of your manicure, so take your time on this step. Start by removing any old polish and cut nails down to size. Using Le Mini Macaron Les Essentiels Manicure Set, £15, Asos, you can cut, shape and file your nails to your desired length with ease. Square is the easiest to achieve but a nice rounded curve works well, too.

Look after cuticles

It might seem like an unnecessary step but tidying up your cuticles will keep your nails looking professional and healthy. Take some cuticle sticks like Accessories by Sainsbury’s Wooden Sticks, £1, Sainsbury’s, and gently push back any overgrown skin around your nail, working to create a half-moon shape. This ensures that when you add colour, your nail bed has a pro finish.

Clean base