On painted nails

Nail paint, or laquer as I've also seen it called, has come a long way since I was younger. Once there was an array of color available, mostly reds and neutrals, with the addition of bases and top coats. Today, those same colors are available but with every color of the rainbow and an outrageous number of additives, from shimmer to glitter to flakes to glow and beyond. Not only that, but there are other formulas of material, like gel nails. There are even magnetic additives that open such an array of possibility that it's wild. And we haven't even touched on nail art, stickers, and stencils. What a time to be alive.

Why?

There are many reasons, each of which will simply make you a better person with a richer life. Whether you currently damage your nails intentionally or inadvertently, whether you wish to practice self-expression or just have yet another lovely conversation starter, nail laquer is for you. Even if you specifically wish not to wear nail colors, read on, friend. This topic is for you.

Those who bite and pick at their nails and cuticles often report that nail polish cured the habit. I think the polish helps, but the well-groomed nail and well-moisturized cuticle may play the greater role. Painting your nails often results in better nail care overall. Through better nail care, you will find your attention called to your nails less and less. When there are no snags to pick at or bite, the habit fades naturally.

If your damage is inadvertent, through work and the travails of life, then a well-groomed nail won't quite be enough. A strengthening base coat and an additional coat or two of even a clear laquer will add much resilience. You will be less prone to bending, chipping, or breaking a nail. You may also find yourself more inclined to adjust habits to care for your new nails better. Perhaps a pair of gloves is in order.

Beyond these extremely practical reasons, there is also the enrichment that will follow your adventures in self-expression. Getting a better idea of who you are, what you like, and how you enjoy expressing yourself is a likely outcome, even if you're ultimately content with an "invisible" manicure. And if you wish to go beyond that, there is hardly a conceivable limit. Whatever you wear, wear it with confidence and pride. As an added bonus, you will have unlocked a new conversation starter.

How, then?

The tools are simple. At the minimum, you need a pair of high quality clippers, a high-quality file (I recommend a glass file), and some oil. Specialty nail oils can be wildly expensive (so let me know if you're interested; I'll make you one), but a simple organic oil like sesame or avocado will also do the job just fine. If it feels good and smells good, apply it to your nails and cuticles daily. Do not clip or cut your cuticles under any circumstances. The dried, dead skin will come away with moisturization, and the healthy living tissue is crucial to your nail health. The only three things you need are a clipper, a glass file, and a nice oil.

Beyond those tools, your nails are a canvas for you to decorate as you please. Everyone should have a quality strengthening base coat, a glossy top coat, and something that feels fun. Actually, if you're still warming up to the idea, start with the base coat and call it good enough for now. Some base coats are not very glossy, rather like a fingernail is. They can be worn alone and will help some. A top coat over that will look very neutral and add a good deal of strength. Two coats of color between the base and top coat will do even more.

If you want to do the most, however, then there's basically no stopping you. Try a shimmer polish, then upgrade to a shimmer with a flaky topper. Go nuts with a glowing polish (but be prepared to startle yourself at night). Get a magnetic polish and any variety of magnets to create a cat-eye, velvet, glass bead, or other artistic effect. Layer differnt colors, or get a fine brush and get into nail art. After you've sealed everything with your top coat (which can be glossy or matte), there is still room for more decoration in the form of jewels, glitter, charms, and more. When you get into the self-expression (and look up techniques online), you can come up with some wild creations.

Where is this coming from?

I used to pick at my nails incessantly when I was younger. When I learned to file them reguarly, I nearly eliminated the habit. I would still get a snag while I was out and then end up subconsciously picking at it and tearing off part of my nail before I could get to a file. It is only since I have gotten into the habit of painting my nails with real intention that I have truly strengthened them. Not to mention the exercise is fun. I cannot recommend it highly enough.