Proper nail care. Tips needed.

[mara13]

Being as I am totally new at most of this, I was wondering what proper nail care would be? I am not quite ready to go acrylic, but would still like health, good looking nails that can still pass a non fem if need be. My mails DO grow fast, about a quarter of a inch in a week to a week and a half, if that is in any way helpful. Any tips and suggestions you girls can give would be greatly appreciated.

[VickySGV]

Well, actually you have ruled out the tips!! (Now that I have that pun out of the way,)

Keep your nails clean by using a nail brush under the front edge of them. Also, use and emery board to keep the ends rounded and a bit smooth so they do not chip. Use what is called an orange stick to gently push back the cuticles and keep them from giving you hangnails. Clear matte nail polish will not give you away as too girly, so have at it. Be sure your nails are clean when putting the polish on.

Big news, men can can manicures and pedicures these days without anyone even blinking or wrinkling a nose at you, unless of course you forget the tip for the nail tech. I can't get pedicures any more from a regular source since I am diabetic, but they felt wonderful the couple of times I took a risk and had them done.

[mara13]

Wow, I can't believe the number of typo's, and I reread my post at least 5 times!

Thank you for the help! Concerning tipping the tech, having worked in the food service industry, the standard tip for wait staff is 20%, what is the standard tip for tech's? Also, on average how much is a manicure? I will likely be going to the nail salon in our local Walmart, but still an average figure will help me to save up. As for pedi's, with MY toe nails..... I don't even want to go there! If I need my toes done, I be better off going to the vet!

[VickySGV]

There are various packages that each salon puts together, 10 to 15% tip of the total to the tech. My usual bill for my acrylics and polish was $20.00 + $3.00. A manicure which included nail shaping and certain types of polish was about $10, so I would have given $2.00 tip. Certain deluxe packages with various cleaning agents and salves or lotions could go up to $60.00. Find a nail salon you would like to try, and just call them. Guys are always getting gift cards for their female interests, and as I said, some have guy packages, like callous removing, and hand massages with lotions in a mans scent.

[Guest Lizzie McTrucker]

That seems a little high for a manicure. I've seen them around $15 - $20. For something easy you can do at home, just take good care of your hands. File your nails, use a cuticle stick to push the cuticles back. Use a nail file to clean under your nails. You could probably pull off a simple clear nail polish if you wish. It's not required. Also keeping your hands moisturized will be good for your skin and help cut down on hang nails.

[Guest Guest_]

I just use the press on kind. No mess and very easy to use, They come in sveral styles and colors. Walmart has them. I also agree with Lizzie on her maintenance tips. Amber L.

[Charlize]

Manicures and pedicures are a wonderful way of pampering oneself. I probably overtip but i usually give $10. Its more a matter of being nice. I go maybe once a year. I love to go in the spring when sandals become possible. The is still the tinniest tip of pink on my toes from last August. I got them done before the first two person show i had as a woman. I wanted to look as good as my paintings. Oh ya i don't think my vet does toes. I have to do the goat's hooves.

Hugs,

Charlie

[mara13]

Thanks every one, Your help is appreciated.

And Charlie, I am glad to see some one has as twisted a sense of humor as me. But realistically If you saw the claws I have the misfortune to call toe nails, you would die of fright! Even if I were totally masculine, with no hint of feminine in me, I would STILL be dismayed with my toes!

Oh, while I am thinking of it, are gelatin soaks for the finger nails really any help?

[Guest Lizzie McTrucker]

Never tried a gelatin soak, but it is supposed to be good for nails.

Parafin wax is good, too. Some salons offer that as an extra (read: more $ to your bill).

I have horrible toe nails, thus why I never wear cute sandals or opened toe shoes.

[mara13]

Paraffin eh? I make candles all the time, maybe I should soak my nails while the wax melts? Nah, the temps we use for candling is way to high for that! 180 + º F would cause serious burns. But if I knew the proper temps, I would have a ball!.......of wax!