New! Border Trend

Another new creative trend that has begun recently is having a border on your nails. This means one color on the inside and one color bordering this inside color. There are a number of different ways to do this. You can use a solid color or you can use more than one color. Below is a link that shows how to do a summer nail border using two colors and also a gel pen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDwfBPA1L7s

A lot of women have different input on this nail style. If you are going to do it I would not use dark colors lining light colors. I think if I were to do it I would use a lighter color or a design, many people think the black looks dirty. Here is what some women are saying about it:

"i really like this! i had this on my nails yesterday but not with a black frame but pink."

"It really is something else"

"I think it's very creative but wouldn't make it myself!"

"I just don't like it in any way. Makes me think of dirty nails or something..."

"I'm not a huge fan of it but I have seen some nice ones."

If you like it, try it! Dare to be different. Nails are all about having fun, trying something new, and expressing yourself! 

Party Nails for Party Girls

There are always new trends breaking out lately when it comes to nails. Something that has been very popular this past year is having an accent nail. Among the nail art community this is known as "the party nail". What this means is basically having one nail look different from the other four- to make it simple. This nail stands out and grabs attention. Who can rock a party nail? Anyone! This trend has caught fire lately and has become popular among women of all ages- from children to elders! 

The party nail has become a trend because it is a fun and easy way to incorporate a wild side to your manicure without committing to a full-out design. One intricate nail instead of five takes less time and effort, but still looks glam and fun! This can mean using anything from a stencil design, rhinestones, or maybe just a brighter color. This party nail gives you a chance to break the mold! 

I have definitely caught on to the party nail. I love switching up my manicures by adding one fun design. When I get my nails done lately, it seems like everyone at the salon is using this new idea. It has truly caught on for good! Be careful, once you try it out you may become hooked!

5 Salon Secrets You Can Use At Home

Why does nail polish stay on so much better when getting them done at a salon? Well, they are using supplies that you may not have! Good news- the secret is here! Here are five things that you can buy and start using at home to improve your manicures

1. Block Buffer
2. OPI Bond Aid
3. Nail Tek Foundation
4. Nail Tek II
5. Nail Tek 10-Speed

Using a block buffer removes as much moisture as possible from the nail. Next, spray your nails with rubbing alcohol to continue to dry out the nail bed. Applying OPI Bond Aid next will be the final step in drying out the nail bed. You apply it just as you would apply regular nail polish. Applying Nail Tek Foundation next works as a base coat and also adds strength to the nails. It will give your nails a nice matte finish. Next, apply polish. Before applying the top coat, make sure your nails are completely dry. For a top coat, using Nail Tek II is recommended by salons. To dry nails, Nail Tek 10-Speed is also recommended.

To ensure that nails last long and do not chip, it is recommended to let them dry for 30-60 minutes. Also, if you often times have your hands in water, you might want to consider wearing gloves for things such as gardening, dishes or maintenance. Some people even apply clear top coats a couple days after the manicure to really confirm that the nails will not chip. 

Tricks For Removing Nail Polish

Removing nail polish can be bothersome and irritating. The most simple way to do this is by using nail polish remover. Any brand from almost any place will work immediately and thoroughly when used with a cotton ball or paper towel.

What's inside of this stuff, anyway? It is mainly acetone. Glycerin and aloe vera (so that your skin does not dry out) are also inside. There are also some fragrances. To be specific, here are the ingredients for one remover- Butyl Acetate, Ethyl Acetate, Isopropyl Alcohol, Dibutyl Adipate, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange)Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Benzophenone-3

Here's a question, what happens if you've run out of remover and you need to re-paint your nails? What if they look a mess and you need to fix them-fast? Are you stuck? Apparently not! After researching around the web, I have discovered that there are a number of ways to remove your polish without this chemical. Take a look!

1. Spray Deodorant- This deodorant contains solvents that can act as a wonderful remover for anything that cannot be cleaned very easily, from polish to markers. After applying it, rub with a napkin or cloth to help scrub away the polish. It may not work immediately, and you may need to repeat the steps. The following four items can be used in the same way to remove nail polish.
2. Hair Spray
3. Body Spray
4. Old Perfume
5. Hand Sanitizer
6. Top Coat Nail Polish- Putting a clear top coat of polish on already polished nails and then using a cotton ball to scrub it off will remove polish. The top layer of polish will stick to the existing polish, and then both will come off together.

Polish-less Nails? Stickers!

Let's face it: sometimes there are designs that are impossible to put onto nails-with polish! Polish designs are very difficult to apply and take a lot of time, patience, and self-control. Even when going to the nail salon, professionals cannot create perfect masterpieces on nails all the time. What is the answer to this problem? NAIL STICKERS!

Nail stickers have all types of designs that you can simply stick onto your nails! To apply, peel the sticker off and place it on your nail. Next, shape it to your nail and file off the extra. To make it stay on for longer, paint a clear polish layer over the top of the sticker. And- Viola! Complex nail designs are applied in minutes with ease. These are not only simple, but safe and also healthy for nails. 

Where can you get these? Stick on nails are available at anywhere from Walmart to Target to Walgreens. They cost anything from $1.99 for a simple set to $19.99 for a more complex kit with more than one set provided. This makes them affordable for anyone! Have fun sticking!

Check out more nail sticker ideas on our Instagram @nailsnailsGALORE_

New! Gel Pens For Nail Art

It seems like we are always hearing of new ways to decorate nails. What's the latest? Gel Pens! The first step to doing this is applying a layer of regular nail polish- whatever color you choose. The next step is to apply the gel pen. This can be any way you want. Lines, circles, zig-zags, even words! Apply the gel pen and let it dry. After this is complete you should apply a clear layer of nail polish over the top. This will keep the gel pen on for days! Using a gel pen allows you to apply intricate designs that you would not be able to do while using nail polish. Thin lines are possible and even simple to apply! There is nothing that is too complex. Check out some of the images below!

Don't think you can do it on your own? Nonsense! Below is a youtube tutorial showing how one women uses different gel pen colors on top of black nail polish to create an easy fabulous look. You can do it! Check it out!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utZ6jRRscYI

For more gel pen and other creative nail ideas, check out my instagram @nailsnailsGALORE_

Are Acrylic Nails Harmful?

Acrylic nails are something many women love. They provide a full and clean nail look. They appear professional and beautiful. Something many women worry about is whether or not they are healthy. They worry that they will damage the natural nail. Overall, it is not likely that acrylic nails will damage the natural nail. However, there are some things to keep in mind when managing safe and healthy acrylics.

1. Stick to salons that have a state license and nail technicians licensed by the state.
2. Be cautious if you notice fumes, a strong smell may be a sign of poor ventilation for the natural nail.
3. Make sure the nail technician is sterilizing the tools and washing their hands.
4. Soak your nails in a fresh bowl of water before applying the acrylic nail.
5. Do not allow your cuticles to be pushed back or trimmed, this may increase the chance of developing a nail infection.
6. Request a new nail file or bring your own since these are not often cleaned.

If you are applying acrylic nails on your own at home, always abide by the safety tips printed on the package. Be sure to protect the skin around your nails from the chemicals used to apply the acrylics. Work in a well ventilated area as well. If you suspect an infection or have redness or swelling, contact a dermatologist to get treated.

Nail Shapes: More Options Than You'd Think!

When getting your nails done, especially using acrylics, what many people don't know is that there are many shapes to chose from. Depending on your mood or your style, there are different ways you can shape your nails to match how you are feeling.

• Round Shape: A rounded nail is very common, and in my opinion the most natural looking way to shape a nail. It gives off a feminine, caring, and romantic vibe. 
• Square Shape: A square shape is also a pretty common nail shape. It has a flattened top that looks more crisp and gives off straight edges. This shape gives a strong, bold, and "diva" vibe.
• Squarely-Rounded Shape: This shape combines the best of both worlds! The top of the nail is still flat (like a square) but the edges are rounded. This makes a straight and smooth look. This shape is assertive and ambitious. 
• Almond Shape: This shape is similar to a round shape, but the nail is longer and the edges are thinner (which looks like an almond). This look is young, unique and creative.
• Stiletto Shape: This shape is the newest nail shape. The nail looks similar to the almond shape but at the top there is a point. This gives off somewhat of a "claw" or "dagger" look. Some describe this look at daring and sexy.... I myself find this shape somewhat frightening. 

All of these looks can be done with any color or design that you may want. You can file them yourself (which could be difficult with some of the more complicated shapes) or they can be shaped at any nail salon of your choice. Have fun!

Do's and Don'ts: Nail Salons

Getting your nails professionally done is awesome. They look close to perfect, and it saves you work and effort. There are some things every woman SHOULD do when it comes to nail salons, because whether or not we may like it-there are risks. Many infections and problems have occurred in the past. To stay safe, here are some tips to try out at the salon! They will help you stay safe, infection-free, and will improve your experience.

• Don't be afraid to ask how they disinfect their tools. Both liquid disinfection and autoclave sterilization are acceptable.
• If the technician is wearing gloves, that is usually a good sign. Only about 17% of them do.
• Check to see if the floor is dirty. If they are not cleaning and sweeping up pretty regularly, it is easy to find other places that do. This is a sign that they might not be very conscious about their cleanliness. 
• Check out the restrooms. If the bathroom at the salon is not as clean as you would like one at your own home to be, this also may be a turn-off.
• Watch where the salon employees pull their tools. See if the tools are being pulled from a drawer of sterilized tools or if they are reusing the same ones from customer to customer.
• Always know what chemicals they are using on you, if any. It should always have a clear, defined label available for the customer.
• Never shave before going to the nail salon, it acts as a portal of entry for bacteria to get in.
• Pain is an absolute red flag. If you do not feel comfortable about the service you are having, it is time to look for a new salon.

DIY Nail Art: 3 Fun Techniques!

Solid colored nails are pretty, but sometimes it's fun to spice things up a bit! This means designs! Designs look great, but many people think that they are too difficult or take too much time to apply them. Have no fear, here are three nail art ideas that are simple and do-able on your own! You just need a few supplies.

1. Fan Brush Nail Art

To achieve this look, you will need a small fan makeup brush. First, apply a normal solid layer of whichever color you choose. Then, put the next color that you want on the brush and brush it on the solid coat. Repeat this step with as many other colors as you wish- and you will get the look above!

2. Half and half

To achieve this two-color-nail, all you need is scotch tape! Apply the first coat of whatever polish you choose. Allow this to fully dry, then apply the scotch tape onto your nail in whatever shape you wish. This will allow the second layer to have a crisp and straight line that appears professionally done. After painting the second coat, peel off the scotch tape and check out the result!

3. Band-Aid Polka Dots

For this trick, you can cut a simple band-aid and use it for cute dots! Paint the background polish with any color you like, and make sure it dries fully. Next, apply the band aid with the holes onto your nail. Use the polish you would like for the dots and paint it over the top. Before peeling the band-aid off, make sure this is dry so it does not smudge when you peel of the band-aid. After repeating this step you will have an adorable polka-dotted design!

What is Shellac?

There is nothing more frustrating than painting your nails and then having them chip a couple of days later! What many people are using to prevent this is using gel polish or "shellac". What is this? Shellac is the brand name for a new, patent pending nail product created by Creative Nail Design. It is half  nail polish, half gel. It is thin and strong enough to be similarly to nail polish, and also has a beautiful shine. It is good to use for people who want to maintain natural nails. It also lasts longer than regular nail polish, with no chipping or flaking. 

Shellac cannot be done at home. It has to be applied by a professional, which means going to the salon and getting your nails done. In my opinion, it is definitely worth it! I have shellac on my nails right now. I got them done probably 2 weeks ago and the polish still looks perfect- which is does NOT happen when I use regular nail polish. The perks of shellac are worth the price you pay. While typical nail polish dries by evaporation, shellac dries with UV light, which allows it to be dry in minutes. By the time the manicure is over, your nails will be completely dry. It acts like a plasticized coating, which means long lasting. The UV rays will not be damaging to your nails either. 

How will this cost me? Usually around $35. This may be too much for some, but as I said- I believe that it is worth it! Here are some photos of women with shellac nails for a visual!

About me!

Hello, my name is Lucy Grant and I am a senior college student majoring in Advertising and PR. I attend the University of NE-Lincoln and love spending time with my friends and family. I have a passion for creativity and coming up with new and exciting ideas that will excite an audience. This includes anything from video to photos to anything advertising! In addition to my creativity love, I enjoy coming up with fun new ways to keep my nails beautiful and clean cut. My sister and I (pictured above) are always comparing and discussing new nail ideas. I am always noticing other people's nails and I love seeing what people come up with! When asked to start a blog, I thought this would be a fun and interesting way to combine my schoolwork and hobbies into one big idea. That is why I have started Nails Galore! Enjoy!

What's in: Bright Summer Colors

Since it is June you know what that means: summer! This means out with the black clothing and warm scarves and in with the white and bright colors! This does not only mean clothing colors, but also nails of course! This is the time to take advantage of the fun colors that many polish brands have come out with. Pastels such as green, yellow, blue, and purple are all acceptable and fun for the summertime. In addition, white is always pretty. This is perfect to match any summer colors that you may want to rock at any hour of the day. Colors such as gold or gold glitter can also work by adding it to the pastel colors you may want to use. Which brands should you look for? My personal favorite is Essie: they have a LARGE variety of bright and beautiful pastels to fit any summer day or night.

If you really want to go all out- try combining these colors and using patterns for your nails. Triangles, squares, and floral designs are perfect for summer nail fun. Each nail might not even match exactly- the fun is in how creative you can get. Lines, Jewels, rhinestones, and more are also acceptable. Think about it, there are not many months out of the year that bright neon colors will look good with your clothing and attitude. Take advantage of it while you have time!

Nails: Pretty AND Healthy!

Having beautiful and fun nails is something that many girls today consider important. Though this is seen as the main idea, many forget to take care of their nails at the same time! A lot of women blame this on spending money. They believe that in order to keep their nails healthy, a professional must be in charge. Though this is true, not everyone wants to spend money every month just to keep this up! Believe it or not, there are many ways that you can take care of your nails on your own in your home. By simply purchasing olive oil and lotion, you can create a healthy mixture for your nails by just adding warm water. The photo below shows clear instructions.

         Another bothersome issue that many women have is stained nails. Cheap polish can often leave marks on nails that appear dirty and unhealthy. This makes it difficult to paint different colors on nails when dark stains are still able to be seen underneath. Worry no more ladies! Again, you do not need to hit the expensive salon to have "proper" cleaning of the nails done. By using an ingredient as cheap as toothpaste, the stains can be handled. Again, the photo below shows clear steps on how to accomplish this on your own!

There are also products that you can buy and re-use at home to keep strong, healthy, and correctly colored nails. Vaseline Intensive Care has a “healthy hand and nail” lotion that has proved to help many women grow back sturdy and healthy nails. Pretty nails are important, but keeping up with their health is even more crucial. Starting with a couple of these tips will lead you to the healthy and responsible track to glamorous nails!