All Things Nail Care
All Things
Nail Care
One of the most frequently asked messages I’ll receive is about my nails! When I started modeling over thirteen years ago, it was drilled into my head that a model’s nails needed to be camera-ready at all times, prepared for any last-minute bookings or photoshoots. Because of this, I have made it a part of my routine to keep up with my nails. Ironically, I’m on camera or in photos/videos nearly every day in this job over a decade later! I suppose there could be worse habits to be aware of, and I like to think of it as self-care! So it’s a little treat to myself to maintain.
Another thing always suggested/preferred while modeling was always to have a neutral or pale-pink nail, as it looks good on camera, and when it grows out, it’s not as noticeable. Still well over a decade later, I can’t stray from the neutral pinks - I’ve gotten so used to it that now it’s all I can do. One time, I had a modeling client request that I get a bright red manicure, and afterward, I kept thinking my hands were bleeding out of the corner of my eye. It definitely took some time to get used to!
what I get and ask for
I do get my nails done, and if you’re local to Buffalo, I’d be happy to share more if you want to send me a note/email! I tried to dabble in the DIY arena, especially during the pandemic, but I couldn’t replicate the look and longevity that I get from getting them professionally done. I do love stick-on nails in a pinch, highly reccommend this brand! I have been getting dip powder manicures for several years, lasting 3-4 weeks. I also like to get gel pedicures, which also last a significant amount of time, and I like that I don’t have to wait too long for them to dry. As far as my nails go, they have never been healthier. The key to maintaining healthy nails is definitely proper and professional removal, I don’t pick at them between appointments, and my nail technician soaks them off.
shape & color:
As I mentioned above, I always opt for a pale or neutral pink, and over the years, I’ve snapped a few of my favorite dip powder colors you can check out above. Different salons will carry different brands and colors, but I usually wear one of those above. As far as the shape goes, I try not to go too long, but I always ask for a rounded shape. My natural nails are more squared off, so my technician works with the natural shape of my nails and rounds off the corners for me. They’re not quite an almond shape, but certainly rounded and short enough to not affect my daily life.
take care of those nails!
I thought it’d be helpful to share a few products to have on hand for overall nail health! If you’re a regular polish gal, I love OPI shades, and this set is great to have on hand for painting them at home. I have a similar tool kit to this one that is great to have on hand for any hang nails or skin that needs attention. I can never paint my feet neatly, but this toe separator looks especially promising for keeping them separated and ready to paint. Sometimes I’ll forget to wear gloves when I'm in the garden, so I love to keep these mini brushes on hand to scrub underneath my fingernails. If you need to soak off your own gel or dip powder polish, these clips and set will make your life a whole lot easier and prevent any damage from the nail.
Every now and then, I love a good at-home mask for my feet, this one has gone viral several times for how well it works and this hand one I like to use when I’m needing some extra hydration on them. BK recently got into taking care of his nails at home and recently bought this cuticle oil, he says it’s been working well. This hand cream is elite, one of the best on the market, and it’s made for “working hands” that are constantly needing to be washed, while still keeping the skin hydrated. These rounded emery boards are easy to use and good to have on hand, I don’t travel without one! And lastly, these pumice stones are great to use on calluses and dry skin.
Thanks for reading all about nails! I hope this was helpful. Let me know if you have any questions below, thanks for reading!
xx CMK
