By Katie Saxton

Nails are a fab way to make a fashion statement and show off your unique personality. Yet, many people don’t know how to care for their nails’ health and ensure that they are in tip-top shape before all the polishes and nail art go on.  Maintaining proper nail health is the first step in making sure they are ready for the runway (or catwalk down your school hall)! After that, you can decorate your nails to your heart’s desire.

 The first step in keeping your fingernails and toenails healthy is making sure to diet right. To make sure your nails gradually grow stronger and healthier, take in calcium, iron, protein, and vitamins A, B, C, and D. Also, eat the right foods. Fish, chicken, eggs, cheese, milk, and plenty of fruits and vegetables will keep your nails at the top of their game (and also keep you healthy overall)! Also, make sure to take biotin, a vitamin that strengthens your nails and hair.

 Along with upholding a proper diet, you should practice consistent nail maintenance. Regular manicures and pedicures are crucial. You can schedule in-salon mani-pedis, or do them at home. Both work as long as you are doing them regularly. Also, file, buff, and massage the nails on a regular basis. Purchase a buffer, and start at the cuticle and move forward to buff the entire nail bed. The buff will keep your nails from cracking.

 You should also protect your nails. Nail strengtheners and hardeners cut down on nail chipping. Likewise, you need to care for your cuticles. If you don’t want to spend money on name-brand cuticle products, use olive oil from your kitchen. Whatever you decide, leave it on for five minutes to fully replenish your nails. Don’t wash your hands completely, allowing your nails to get the richest conditioning possible. Use lotions to keep your hands moisturized, and refuse the urge to bite your nails or use them to pry open jars.

 Now that you know the proper nail-care steps, it is time to discover fabulous ways to express yourself with your nails! Choose any of the below ideas to show your unique personality and make a statement!

•    Ombré Manicures and Pedicures: Blending multiple colors into one is an increasing trend we are seeing on the runway and on celebrities’ fingers. The best solution is to pick your favorite nail color and blend it with a neutral.

•    Nail Wraps: Sally Hanson has a wide assortment of nail wraps. If you’re nervous about all ten fingers being tiger-striped, just try one or two nails. It doesn’t have to be animal prints either; try a lace wrap for a more romantic look.

•    Crackle Nail Polishes: Pop star Katy Perry started this trend when she partnered with OPI designing the Black Shatter Polish. It gives your nails an edgy and spunky look.

•    Stiletto Nails: Having long, sharp-tipped nails are big with celebrities like Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Fergie, and Rihanna.

•    Orange and Red Polishes: These warm but bold nail colors were sported at Fashion Week and will jazz up any outfit.

•    Reverse French and Multi-Colored Mani-Pedis: Do manicures and pedicures a slightly different way—dual-toned. Dark colors like plum and black work great for these looks.

•    POP of Color: Today’s fashionistas are jazzing up plain outfits and solid, dark-toned attire with little POPs of color via flashy jewelry and neon accessories. You too can engage in this fun trend by painting your nails neon pink, orange, green, or yellow. This will help them stand out from any outfit and garner all the attention you deserve.

So what are you waiting for?! It’s time to get those nails primped and picture-perfect! All of the above tips will keep your fingernails and toenails in tip-top condition and ensure that they are ready to impress!

About Custom Nail Solutions:

 Try all of the nail design ideas with Custom Nail Solution’s beautiful, natural-looking, non-chipping, and reusable custom-fit nails that won’t discolor. They are custom-made to fit only your nails, and will give you damage-free and hassle-free nails that will last forever. More info at http://www.customnailsolutions.com.