We’re addicted to nail art (the hundreds of pictures on Beautylish prove that you are, too!) but have you ever considered the health of your tips? With more color variations available than ever, it’s tempting to change your polish every day—but could it be ruining your nail beds? According to Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI executive vice president and artistic director, the more color, the better!
“Frequently changing your lacquer won’t damage your nails if done properly,” says Suzi. “I constantly test new shades—I may change my polish multiple times a day—but I always use a base coat to prevent staining, and always apply cuticle oil.” Contrary to what people believe, nails don’t actually “breathe,” so you can wear nail polish (and change it!) every day of the week. However, if you don’t wear a base coat your nails can turn yellow or discolored from staining agents. “If this does happen, I recommend letting your nails grow out before wearing lacquer again,” advises Suzi.
A strong nail bed is the foundation of a good manicure, and Suzi ensures that her shape is always maintained. “After removing your lacquer, file nails in one direction to prevent splitting and use an exfoliating product on cuticles, pushing them back rather than cutting them,” she suggests. “Then, apply base coat, followed by two or three thin layers of polish, and finish with top coat. Reapply your top coat every other day to add shine and prevent chips. Lastly, apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles moisturized.”
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Nov 10, 2012
Dannielle L.
A good diet always helps too. My paleo diet gives me rock hard, strong, thick healthy nails :) They almost never break or bend. I do change my polish multiple times a week, though, for web tutorials. It's important to keep them clean and moisturised too!
Sep 18, 2012
AngelBaby A.
I didn't know all this...
Jul 19, 2012
Amoure J.
Plus most polishes aren't so porous that they can get through the nail plate to reach the actual nail bed (that's the layer of skin under the nail) therefore there is no such thing as too much polish.
Jul 14, 2012
Annabella F.
I always give my nails a break for a week especially if I've been using loads of glitter!
Jul 08, 2012
Amber Does Nails x.
No such thing as 'too much polish'!
Jul 30, 2012
Felica C.
Jul 05, 2012
Jasmine P.
I've been doing this to myself for the past couple of months. We keep getting nail polish in and I just want to play all the time! I've recently been giving them a break just because they absolutely need it.
Jul 05, 2012
Sai M.
Wow! This is nice! :)
Jul 04, 2012
Grace M.
I can't tell you how many times someone has asked me how to prevent splitting and staining! Great advice..its hard to give tips when you dont know someones full nail regimen
Jul 04, 2012
Entice D.
Good advice!
Jul 04, 2012
Ella H.
For anyone who suffers from nail that are prone to splitting or breaking I thoroughly recommend O.P.I Nail Envy. I use it as a base coat and my nails have never been stronger. When first using it make sure you follow the instructions for best results.