To spread the amount of time between nail salon trips, keep the nicks and chips to a minimum. A light-colored polish won't show scuffs as quickly as dark hues, OPI Artistic Director Suzi Weiss-Fischmann tells Cosmopolitan. Also, polish with a bit of shimmer are more resistant to chips. 

"Every other day after your manicure, brush a speed-drying coat on your nails to maintain the shine and finish. If you get a dent, lightly pat your entire nail for a few seconds with a cotton pad moistened in remover. This will tone down the overall color so the nick is less noticeable." For extra protection against cracks, use OPI Ridge Filler at the tips.

Rose-tinted lip balm is also useful, and can be used to soften hangnails or to add sheen to the nail.