White Nails

White nails used to remind me of being bored in lessons and using a Tipp Ex pen as a makeshift nail varnish, though they are really 'in' at the moment. I decided to paint my own - using actual polish this time!

Before applying the base coat.

I always use a base coat for multiple reasons:

• it makes your nails smoother for easier application
• prevents discolouration of the nails
• ensures that the polish will last longer
• promotes healthier nails (most base coats contain calcium, vitamin E and aloe vera)
• adds shine

I use Barry M's all-in-one base coat, top coat and nail hardener. It's really easy to apply and dries so quickly!

This is my nails after applying the base coat. They look way healthier than in the photo above, and they're shiny and smooth.

I painted my nails using the white nail varnish that came with an old manicure set I found in my collection. It wasn't my first choice but I didn't have time to go out and buy a new one, and it did work!

You can also buy white nail varnishes from a number of brands I love; Maybelline, L'Oreal, Rimmel London (their 'Hot White Love' colour is by Rita Ora, Barry M and Opi (they have a whole range of white shades!)

As I am rubbish at painting my nails and always end up covered in nail varnish, I use a cotton earbud dipped in nail varnish remover as a kind of pen to remove any excess polish around the edges of my nails (and face or wherever it usually ends up)!

It's still not a perfect manicure, but my little perfecting trick makes them a lot better than before. I won't post a photo of the mess I made as it's more '5-year-old painting session' than '17 year old girl with years of nail painting experience'...

White nails tend to make skin look like it has a healthy glow, as well as being a shade that goes with absolutely everything you wear. I'll definitely be repainting my nails white when it comes off.