The Essentials...

When beginning an at-home manicure make sure you have the right tools. Your nails and cuticles always need a little TLC so make sure you prep them before you even begin to think about applying your favourite polish.

Okay, so as you can tell I may be a fan of Manicare products. Who isn't? You  can walk into any chemist and find a complete wall full of Manicare products...jackpot!

I love these emery boards, they're not tough and rough, so your nail won't end up splitting later down-the-track.

I'm also a fan of a good buff! Ridges are not your friend, so get rid of them. We could even get a little fancy and go for the 4-Way buff. Yes, I know you're on the edge of your seat. This delicious rectangular tool files, buffs, smooths, polishes, and removes ridges.

Now for some TLC. After you have buffed, shined and polished, apply a cuticle oil, such as Manicare Cuticle Oil ($13.50) or opt for a cream instead (Sally Hansen Cuticle Massage Cream).

You have no excuses now, and remember it takes a full hour for a manicure to dry, so don't go operating nail-wrecking devices please.

xS