Easy At Home Nails for less

Being a mom on the go, I don’t always have time for getting my nails done at a nail salon. I’ve started doing my own nails at home and it has saved so much money. I’ve rounded up my favorite Amazon manicure essentials, so you can do your own from the comfort of your home.

What You’ll Need For At-Home Nails

Being a mom on the go means we often have to find creative ways to save time and money. One of the things I’ve discovered recently is the joy of doing my own nails at home. Not only does it save me a ton of cash, but it also allows me to indulge in a little self-care right in the comfort of my own home. Today, I want to share with you my favorite Amazon manicure essentials, so you too can achieve fabulous nails without stepping foot outside!

1. Nail Clippers and Files: Let’s start with the basics! A good set of nail clippers and files is essential for shaping and maintaining your nails. For this grab the salon cordless nail drill just like the salon.
2. Cuticle Pusher and Nippers: To achieve a professional-looking manicure, taking care of your cuticles is a must. A cuticle pusher helps gently push back the cuticles, creating a clean canvas for your polish. Pair it with a pair of cuticle nippers to remove any excess cuticles that may have grown onto the nail.
3. Nail Polish Sets: Ah, the fun part! Building up your nail polish collection is key to expressing your personal style. Look for nail polish sets on Amazon that offer a variety of colors and finishes. From vibrant hues to classic neutrals, you’ll have a shade for every occasion. Opt for long-lasting formulas that provide a salon-like finish. I linked my favorites that are gel so they last longer.
4. Base and Top Coat: For a professional-looking manicure that lasts, don’t forget the importance of a reliable base coat and top coat. A good base coat helps protect your nails from staining and promotes better adhesion for your nail polish. Finish off your manicure with a high-quality top coat to seal in the color and add a gorgeous shine.
5. UV/LED Nail Lamp: If you want to take your at-home manicures to the next level, consider investing in a UV/LED nail lamp. This nifty device cures gel polishes quickly, resulting in a chip-free, long-lasting manicure. Look for lamps with a timer function and compatibility with various gel polish brands.

With these essential tools in your arsenal, you’ll be well on your way to achieving fabulous nails at home. Remember to always take your time, enjoy the process, and pamper yourself a little. Set aside a quiet evening for self-care, put on your favorite music or TV show, and transform your nails into a work of art.

Make sure to check out all of my Amazon favorites to do at-home nails here!

Quick Guide for at-home nails

Here’s a quick guide on how to do at-home gel nails and nail extensions, perfect for busy moms who want long-lasting, salon-worthy nails without leaving the house.

Materials you’ll need:

1. Gel nail polish (base coat, color, and top coat)
2. UV/LED nail lamp
3. Nail files and buffers
4. Cuticle pusher and nippers
5. Nail tips or forms (for extensions)
6. Nail glue (for extensions)
7. Gel nail primer (optional)
8. Isopropyl alcohol or nail cleanser
9. Nail art tools (if desired)
10. Cotton pads and foil wraps (for gel removal)

Step 1: Preparing Your Nails Start by removing any old nail polish and shaping your nails to the desired length and shape using a nail file. Gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick. If you’re doing nail extensions, apply a thin layer of primer to the natural nails to enhance adhesion.

Step 2: Applying Nail Extensions (Optional) If you want to add length to your nails, choose between nail tips or forms. Nail tips are pre-made and can be adhered to the natural nails with nail glue. Forms are flexible templates that can be shaped to create custom nail extensions. Apply the forms or tips and secure them with nail glue, ensuring a snug fit.

Step 3: Gel Base Coat Apply a thin, even layer of gel base coat to your natural nails or extensions, making sure to avoid the cuticles and sidewalls. Place your nails under the UV/LED nail lamp and cure them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 4: Gel Color Apply a thin layer of gel color to your nails, again avoiding the cuticles and sidewalls. Cure your nails under the UV/LED lamp. Repeat this step with a second coat of color for more opacity, if desired. Cure again.

Step 5: Gel Top Coat Finish your manicure by applying a thin layer of gel top coat to seal the color and add shine. Cure your nails under the UV/LED lamp for the final time. Remember to clean off any sticky residue with isopropyl alcohol or nail cleanser using a lint-free pad.

Step 6: Nail Extension Shaping (If Applicable) If you’ve applied nail extensions, now is the time to shape and refine them. Use a nail file to shape the extensions to your desired length and shape. Buff the surface to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections.

Step 7: Nail Art (Optional) If you want to get creative, now is the perfect time to add some nail art! Use nail art tools, such as brushes or dotting tools, along with different gel colors to create unique designs. Let your imagination run wild!

Step 8: Gel Removal (When Needed) When you’re ready for a new manicure or if you need to remove the gel, soak cotton pads in isopropyl alcohol or a nail cleanser. Place them on your nails and wrap them with foil to hold them in place. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes to loosen the gel. Gently push off the softened gel with a cuticle pusher.

Voila! You’ve just achieved stunning, long-lasting gel nails and nail extensions from the comfort of your own home. With practice, you’ll become more skilled and confident in creating your own beautiful nail designs. Enjoy the process and have fun expressing your personal style!

Remember to always follow the instructions provided with your specific gel products and take breaks between gel applications to maintain the health of your natural nails. Happy nail pampering, mommas!