Style

How can I do a French manicure without the polish getting too thick?

May 01, 2006

I can do a great French manicure on the toes, but on the hands I run into problems with the polish getting really thick or too thin. I have tried using French forms, but it still happens — it even gets under the forms. Can you help?

Answer

My clients and students are always pleased with my French technique. I start by coating the tips of two nails with white enamel. I dip a fine-tip sable brush into acetone, dab off any excess, and clean my smile line out, much the same way you’d sculpt white polymer. Continue until all nails are finished. With this technique, the enamel is still wet so it leaves no ridge. It also allows for personalized depth of your smile line. — Jessica Ellison, Nail Program Educator at Yorkville School of Make Up and Esthetics at George Brown College in Toronto

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