How To Save An Out-Grown Manicure & Other At-Home Nail Advice

We asked nail artist @mannequin.hands to show us how to care for your nails like a pro.

If this lockdown has got you missing the little joys in life, like the feeling of a fresh manicure, the casual chit-chat – and maybe even the gentle hand-holding – from your regular nail lady, you’re not alone. We too, are well overdue for some TLC from our trusted technicians, so we checked in with one of our Sydney-based favourites, Victoria Houllis, aka @mannequin.hands on Instagram.

@mannequin.hands

How did you get into nail art?
My mum and aunty used to have a nail tech come to the house every few weeks to have their nails done. I was obsessed from then, and spent their appointments rearranging her kit into colour order!

What’s your favourite manicure trend at the moment?
Ah! That’s tough, I’ve seen so many good sets lately. Crystal-inspired sets and butterflies are a standout for me right now.

What’s the craziest design you’ve done?
There’s a few! Definitely any sets with Flex and one of my regulars, Mitch. He loves a good concept! And any that incorporate all of my favourite extra details – piercings, diamantes and hours of hand-painting!

How do you decide what design you want for your own nails?
I always try out things that I’m not sure are too practical for anyone else, or sets that don’t take a crazy amount of time if my days are looking busy! If I’m not too time-poor it’s always fashion or art-inspired.

What’s your number one tip for healthy nails?
Keep cuticle oil on hand always!

What’s the best way to save a grown-out manicure?
If they’re getting to an unmanageable length give them a little file as they grow out. I have seen a nail glue and diamante touch-up trick that’s a good hack for hiding regrowth – there’s nothing that a little row of gems can’t fix.

@mannequin.hands

What are the essential nail tools everyone should have at home?
Cuticle oil, a cuticle pusher and nipper (if you’re not too snip happy!), a fine nail file and an extra fine buffer. If you’re playing around with nail art, a dotting tool and fine brush are a must.

Whose nails would you really love to do and what would you do to them?
Nadia Lee Cohen! I’d do a lipstick shape (super sharp), in a timeless red shade with gold piercings and jewels!

What are some tips for anyone attempting to do their own nails at home?
Be patient – there’s no time like now to learn how to wait for layers of polish to dry properly! And there’s nothing that acetone can’t fix.

When all this is over, where’s the best place to find you?
Hopefully in a brand-new studio that I’m hunting for now! But until then, find me on Instagram and watch my nail tutorial here.

To inspire your next mani