Nail Art: Do's And Don'ts

Nail art is all about showing off your mood, style and creativity in a fun, fabulous way. From dreamy ombré fades to decals, gems, glitter or chrome accents, nail art is the perfect way to take a simple manicure to the next level.
In this guide, we break down expert nail art design tips to help you achieve salon-worthy results!

DO’s of nail art

Stick to these simple tips to make sure your nails turn out beautiful every time:

• DO keep your nails healthy — The best designs start with a clean and strong canvas. Keep your nails groomed and hydrated with cuticle oil, and trim or file them regularly to maintain their shape and strength.
• DO use high-quality products — Invest in professional-grade tools like brushes, polishes and gel coatings for better coverage, smoother application and bold, vibrant colours that stand out.
• DO try different colours, styles and patterns — Don’t be afraid to experiment with new trends, from seasonal shades to bold patterns and textures. Play around and mix things up until you find your signature style!
• DO loads of practice or enrol in a course — Start with simple patterns like polka dots, stripes or basic shapes and gradually work your way up to more complex designs as you gain confidence.
  
  For those looking to take their skills to the next level, enrolling in a nail art course can be a game-changer. You'll get hands-on training and nail art tips you may not pick up on your own from seasoned professionals.
• DO use a top coat — Always finish off your work with a high-quality top coat. A good top coat not only locks in your design but also safeguards it from chips and scratches.

DON’Ts of nail art

Avoid these common mistakes to keep your nail art flawless and long-lasting:

• DON’T forget to clean your tools — Dirty brushes or tools can ruin your designs by causing streaks or uneven application. Always clean them thoroughly after each use to keep your nail art looking professional.
• DON’T skip the base coat — Prep your nails with a base coat to create a smooth, even surface for your designs.  
• DON’T ignore nail health — Weak or brittle nails can’t support elaborate designs. Avoid biting or excessive filing and give your nails a break between manicures to let them recover and grow naturally.
• DON’T rush the process — Nail art requires patience! Rushing can lead to smudges, uneven patterns or poor drying, all of which could ruin all your hard work.
• DON’T overexpose your nail art to water — Soaking your nails for too long can cause them to expand and contract as they dry, weakening polish adhesion. This may lead to lifting, chipping or a loss of shine in your nail art. Protect your designs by wearing gloves for chores, avoiding prolonged soaking and drying your hands thoroughly.

DIY nail art design suggestions

DIY nail art can be so much fun and with the right tools and techniques you can totally slay your mani game.

Here are some nail art suggestions to elevate your next set:

• Use dotting tools for cute accents — Polka dots, flowers or tiny hearts are super easy to create with our handy dotting tools.  
• Save time with stamping kits — Stamping kits let you create detailed designs within seconds. Simply transfer the pattern from the plate to your nails for instant glam.
• Apply tape and stencils for cleaner results — Sharp stripes, French tips or sleek geometric designs are easy to achieve with tape or stencils. Simply place them on your nails, paint over and peel them off for a salon-perfect result.

Take your nail art to the next level with NSI Australia

At the end of the day, nail art is all about having fun. Try out different textures, mix up your favourite shades or stick .with the classics — whatever makes you feel confident!

With NSI Australia’s nail art kits and coatings, you have everything you need to achieve professional-quality designs. Explore our selection and unleash your inner nail artist!