1. Stop a run

    Clear polish at each end

    Let it dry before you move. It stops the run from spreading.

  2. Mark your keys

    A dab of color on the head

    One color per door. Let it dry overnight.

  3. Dry it faster

    Thin coats + a quick-dry top coat

    Two thin coats dry faster than one thick one. Wait two minutes between them.

A manicure that lasts

How to · With nail polish

A manicure that lasts

30 minutesOnce a weekEasy

Steps

  1. 1Take off any old polish, file your nails in one direction, and gently push back the cuticles. Wash your hands so your nails are clean and dry.
  2. 2Paint on a thin base coat and let it dry for a couple of minutes.
  3. 3Add two thin coats of color, three strokes per nail: one down the middle, then one on each side. Wait a couple of minutes between coats.
  4. 4Finish with a top coat, running the brush along the tip of each nail to seal the edge. Let it dry, then rub in some hand cream.

  • Regular, long-wear or quick-dry

    Regular is easiest to take off. Long-wear lasts longer. Quick-dry sets in minutes but can chip sooner.

  • The finish

    Crème is smooth and shiny, shimmer has a soft sparkle, and matte has no shine. Pale shades hide chips best.

  • Keep it upright

    Store polish upright, cool and out of the sun. If it turns thick and stringy, it's past its best.