New to nails

[doingmyboxin]

I've had really bad skin on my hands for the last few months, and now that it is finally clearing up, I fancy getting my nails done for the first time.

I usually just paint them myself, in plummy shades, and I like to keep them short. I just want my own nails, but nicer and longer lasting.

What should I be asking for, to minimise damage to my nails?

Thanks

You might want to take a look at this thread first:

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/style_and_beauty/4916382-sudden-allergy-to-biab-nails

@WhatWillIWear just came across that after I posted!

I'll stick to doing them myself I think

OP, the ingredient that causes allergic reactions is HEMA and it's not in most good brands. A lot of them now advertise as hema free, just make sure you don't go to a cheap place so you know exactly what brand they're using. A good nail tech should be able to tell you all about the products they use. BIAB is better for your nails than gel, so go with that.

I've been a nail tech for 8 years and not one of my clients has ever had an allergic reaction.

I was going to share a warning but @WhatWillIWear beat me to it!
Also, if you want to avoid damage to your natural nails then avoid gels. Nail techs will say gels don’t damage your nails unless they’ve been removed incorrectly but I’ve had gels done many times, in different salons, and the nails always feel crap and weak after. Everyone I know who has gels done says the same and lots of my friends are stopping the gels now. Although there will always be a few who can get away with it, it is a risk. I don’t do gels anymore but it’s still nice to get a regular manicure from the salon, especially if I’ve got something planned - is that an option? It still looks neater/nicer than when I do mine at home and lasts longer.

Essie nail varnish is lovely and lasts a long time. Do a base coat, two layers of colour and a top coat and should last about a week.

Thanks for the replies.

I'm wary of the risk of a reaction due to the issues I currently have, and have had, with my skin until now.

Maybe I should just ask for a basic manicure. It'll still probably last longer than when I do it myself.

I do use Essie, but I'm not always committed to the routine you have described @bluejelly

Follow The Salon Life on YouTube..she has loads of information on caring for natural nails and the risks with gels.

HEMA isn’t the only ingredient that can cause allergies but even if you’re not allergic, lots of people find gels wreck their nails. Mine were terrible after them.