4 DIY Home Manicure Must-Haves
These products nail it
There's nothing quite like a fresh manicure to finish a look. Here, our picks for the top polish, base coat, top coat, and nail treatment.
The Experts:
Ilana Blitzer, Health beauty director; Paul Cucinello, celebrity hair stylist in Los Angeles and New York City; Francesca Fusco, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City; Suzy Gerstein, New York City celebrity makeup artist; Julie Kandalec, celebrity manicurist and creative director of Paintbox in New York City; Joanna Simkin, New York City celebrity makeup artist; Alexis Wolfer, founder of TheBeautyBean.com; Jessica Wu, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Souther California School of Medicine in Los Angeles
1 of 5
Nail color
Essie Cashmere Mattes
($26; nordstrom.com)
These six polishes are classically crisp and clean—but with a cool satin-matte finish, says manicurist Julie Kandalec.
2 of 5
Topcoat
Deborah Lippman The Wait Is Over Quick-Dry Drops
($20; sephora.com)
"The odorless drops form a protective barrier and dry nails faster than a New York minute," Kandalec says.
3 of 5
Base coat
Orly One Night Stand Peel-Off Base Coat
($10; amazon.com)
This base eliminates the need for harsh scrubbing, soaking and even remover, our testers confirm.
4 of 5
Treatment
CND RescueRXX
($20; loxabeauty.com)
In the age of gel manis, tips could use a little TLC. This keratin-infused formula helps strengthen nail beds and softens cuticles.