We don’t always have the time (or the budget) to visit a salon for a monthly mani-pedi. The alternative is to do this simple cut-file-polish manicure at home to keep your tips looking tops all week. You can even add an exfoliation step using a simple homemade manicure scrub.

Read on to know how to do manicure step by step with natural ingredients, using things that are probably already in your home!

Things You Will Need

For the cut-file-polish

  • Nail cutter
  • Nail filer
  • Nail paints

For the hand soak

  • Shallow tub or a deep dish
  • Shampoo or body wash
  • Lemon juice
  • Honey

For the homemade manicure scrub

  • Sugar
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
Step by Step Guide on How to do a Manicure at Home

Step 1: Cut

To start, wash your hands with a medicated soap and then, remove old nail paint with a good quality nail paint remover and a soft cotton ball. Next, cut your nails fingernails straight across to reduce the length; clip the corners into your preferred nail shape. You could either go traditional with a rounded or square shape, or experiment with trending nail shapes like an almond, lipstick or ballerina.

Pro Tip: Use small cuts instead trying to cut off the free-edge, or the white part of your nail in a single big cut.

Step 2: File

File away the rough edges off by swiping the filer on the edges of the nail in the same direction to get a smooth finish. Swiping the filer back and forth in different directions can tear the nails.

Step 3: Soak

Fill the tub with hot (not boiling!) water. Add 2 tablespoons of honey and the juice of one lemon. Lemon works as a great de-tanning and whitening agent while honey is a fantastic moisturiser. Soak your hands in this solution for 5 minutes or more to soften them. After your hands are nice and soft, use the back of your nail filer’s handle to push back the cuticles. Dab a little olive oil on the cuticles to keep them soft.

Step 4: Scrub

Although there are many homemade manicure scrubs out there, this simple lemon, sugar and olive oil scrub is suitable for all skin types. Mix two teaspoons of sugar, half a teaspoon of olive oil, and a teaspoonful of lemon juice in a small bowl. The heat from your palms will melt the sugar crystals, which in turn will gently exfoliate away dead skin cells. The olive oil helps to seal in the moisture into your hands.

Be sure to scrub for 2 minutes before rinsing your hands in lukewarm water. Pat them dry on a soft towel.

Pro Tip: Scrub in circular motions for best results. This would improve the blood circulation in your hands and bring a glow to your skin.

Step 5: Polish

The final step to pamper your beautiful hands is to apply some nail paint. You could try a trendy minimalist nail art style. They’re simple to do, and look elegant.