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The secret to a long-lasting and beautiful manicure is to combat dry and neglected nail beds, which are more prone to breakage. Spending some time and attention caring for your hands could make all the difference in the lasting power of your new manicure.

These are our easy tips on how to get the most out of your nail polish treatment...

• Your polish can take up to 12 hours to fully dry and 'cure'. In this time, do not expose your nails to heat including hot water, steam rooms and saunas

• Dipping your nails in cold water will help the polish to harden faster

• Every two to three days reapply a layer of clear polish over the top to enhance shine and prevent chipping

• Use soap to wash your hands and avoid hand sanitiser. This can dry out nails and cause your polish to crack

• Make sure to apply nail oil to cuticles and massage hand cream into the nails regularly to keep nails from becoming brittle

• When nails begin to chip, file your nails down to the level of the chip. Then apply another layer of topcoat for a fresh look

• Always wear washing up gloves to protect your nails. Warm water can make them soften and chip. It will also expand your nail beds, ruining your polish

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Looking for the perfect classic manicure performed at home? Look no further.