How to make your manicure last forever

There is nothing more frustrating than taking the time to do your nails, only to have them ruined the following day (or in my case about 30 seconds after the job’s done). Still, there are tricks to making your mani last… and last… and last, says Shelley Barrett, CEO and founder of ModelCo.

The best way to stop your nails chipping is to add both a base coat and top coat to your nail polish routine. The former helps gives your polish extra hold for a longer lasting manicure, while the latter acts as a barrier to stop your colour chipping and fading. It’s the ultimate combination in chip defence.

Another way to be sure your manicure stays tip top all week long is applying a fresh swipe of top coat every morning. Although it may seem taxing, a new top up on the daily will reinforce that protective layer and save you an entire re-paint later on.

As for the smudge? Many of us think that if we lay the first coat on thick, we won’t have to go back for round two. This is your number one offender. Apply two thin layers of polish, allow a little dry time in between, and you’ll have a perfect, long-lasting manicure to be proud of.

ModelCo Crystal Nail File, $6. modelcocosmetics.com Our top tip – file one direction only for fewer splits and chips.

Revlon Brilliant Strength Nail Enamel, $15.95. Revlon Revlon.com.au A nail lacquer that will help you be hard as well, nails.

ESSIE all in one 3 way glaze, $17.95. essie.com Base coat, top coat and strengthener. Now you’re talking!

FABY Love Kolor Nail Lacquer in Chelsea Boy, $19.90. faby.com.au If there’s a must-try nail colour this is most definitely it.

Sally Hansen 3D Gel Shine Top Coat, $16.95. au.sallyhansen.com Formulated with vinyl and gel technology, this clever lacquer gives killer shine.