Two things have completely changed my DIY manicures. One, I’ve been using cuticle oil almost daily to keep me cuticles moisturized. All you do is brush a tiny bit of the oil on the base of your nails and massage it into your cuticles – you shouldn’t need clipping if you do this consistently (I’ve been using this one from essie). Secondly, I’ve been paying a lot closer attention to my top coat. What I’ve noticed is that you can have the best polish, but if your top coat isn’t protecting it, your manicure doesn’t stand a chance at lasting more than a two or three days. Conversely with the proper top coat, essie, a brand that usually chips quickly for me, can last a solid five days.
Unfortunately the top coats I’ve been using these last few months have all been from eco brands like Scotch Nails and none have proven to be all that effective. Deborah Lippmann’s lasts way longer while still being relativity low in chemicals. All of this to bring me to essie’s newest winter collection, which is well worth a DIY mani! This is one of my favorite collections of the season because the shades are ones that will work year-round. They’re all saturated (even the foil colored one), with the exception of the light pink and the ivory, which are both semi-sheer and could be paired with something glittery, if you wish, for the holidays. My go-to colors are always in the pink and red families and the ones in the winter line-up are versatile ones that I don’t need to worry about clashing with any outfits…perfect for my upcoming trip to Israel since I won’t have time to stop in a salon! Essie limited edition Winter collection available at Ulta.