Remove all existing nail polish. There are many nail polish removers available now without acetone, which is very drying to your nails, to say nothing of the smell.

File nails to desired shape. Always file in one direction, starting at the edges and moving toward the top. Be careful not to saw at your nail, as it weakens them. Always use a gentle stroke. You should use a double-sided emery board. When your done shaping your nails, turn the board over, to the smoother side, placing it under the nail, and cleanup any lose pieces of nail that might be underneath. To check if your nails are smooth, run them over an old pair of pantyhose. If they snag, you've got some cleaning up to do.

Clean your nails by soaking in warm sudsy water for 5-10 minutes. Pat dry. This cleans away any file residue and removes any excess nail polish remover.

Clean under nails with a nail cleaner or nail brush. Apply cuticle cream to cuticles and massage in. Using an orange stick, wrapped in cotton baton, gently push cuticles back. Never cut your cuticles. Optional Step: You can buff your nails if you wish. This will create a natural shine, and diminish any ridges you may have, creating an even base for your nail polish. Apply an emollient hand lotion and massage into your hands, cuticles and nails. Make sure you have no access cream on your hands, before applying your nail polish. (Use a bit of nail polish remover on a cotton ball, to remove any excess lotion from your nails) First apply your base coat. This step is important, especially if your using a dark nail polish, as it will help prevent the nails from staining. Try using a base coat, that has a nail strengthener in it.

Always apply 2 coats of polish. Start in the middle, and paint one stoke down the middle of the nail, then one stroke on each side. The first coat must be completely dry before applying the second coat.

Wait until your polish is dry and then apply a clear top coat. Don't skip this step, top coat will make your manicure last longer. Remember, if you use a fast dry top coat, your polish will not last as long. Try a quick dry spray instead.

Now relax for 15 minutes, while your polish drys, and your done!