Beginner's Special

No experience necessary! Our goof-proof guide ensures a flawless manicure, even if you're all thumbs.

  1. Shape Nails

    • Trim nails to even lengths with a nail nipper, scissors or nail clip.
    • File edges smooth with a nail file or nail board.
    • Always file nails in one direction, from each side of the nail in toward the center, to help prevent nails from splitting.

  2. Groom Cuticles

    • Soak fingers for 5 minutes in warm water to soften cuticles; pat dry.
    • Gently push back cuticles with a cotton-wrapped cuticle stick or cuticle pusher.
    • Carefully nip away excess cuticles and hangnails.
    • For tough, overgrown or problem cuticles, try one of Sally Hansen's extra strength cuticle removers like Instant Cuticle Remover. Simply follow package directions for safe, easy use.

  3. Prep Nails

    • Apply a nail treatment or base coat to protect nails, smooth the nail surface and help manicures and pedicures last longer.
    • Hard as Nails, the "original nail clinic in a bottle," gives nails a hard, smooth, chip-resistant surface that strengthens and supports nails.

  4. Apply Nail Polish

    • After applying base coat or treatment, wait 2 minutes.
    • Apply 2 coats of Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear for Xtreme Strength & Shine.

  5. Seal, Shine & Finish

    • Finish with a top coat to seal nails.
    • Use Hard as Nails as a topcoat to keep your nail color looking shiny and just-applied fresh.