How to Maintain Long Fingernails

Last Updated: March 14, 2023

Long fingernails usually mean more effort in maintenance. But if this is the look you wish to carry off, that's effort you'll just have to set aside time for.

Part 1

Part 1 of 6:

Cleaning off existing polish

1
Using nail polish remover and a cotton ball, take off any nail polish that's on your nails. Even if you don't have any nail polish on, still wipe over them to clean off any dirt and oil.
2
Wash your hands.

Part 2

Part 2 of 6:

Tidying your nails

1
Rub some lotion on your hands.
2
With the end of a nail file, clean the underneath of your nails, get any remaining dirt out.
3
If your nails are brittle or are chipping, clip them just a tiny bit or clip them so they are all one length.
4
File your nails in whatever shape you like them. (round or square).

Part 3

Part 3 of 6:

Caring for your cuticles

1
Rub some cuticle cream onto your nails and let it set for a minute.
2
Push back your cuticles and then trim them gently. Only trim them if they look like they need it.
3
Get any dead skin off from around the edges of your nails with the cuticle cutter.

Part 4

Part 4 of 6:

Buffing nails

1
Buff your nails with a nail buffer. This will smooth out the nail and make them look healthy.
2
Wipe your nails off with a towel or a tissue to take any lotion off that might be on the nail.

Part 5

Part 5 of 6:

Adding polish

1
Paint your nails with something that helps encourage nail growth. This will protect your nails from any damage and help them to grow long and strong.

Part 6

Part 6 of 6:

Preventing Chips on Nails

1
Put a base coat to prevent staining.
2
Apply the desired color.
3
Use a top coat.
4
After the first four days, apply the top coat every day once a day.
5
After the last three days, apply every other day.

Community Q&A

Question

If I use nail polish remover to get a certain color like red or black off my nails, what if the color does not come off all the way?

Cecilia Flores

Top Answerer

It's okay if it doesn't come off all the way. You can just cover it up with another color of polish. If you're going to keep your nails short, you can lightly buff the surface of the nail. If you're growing your nails out, buffing them buffs away layers of the natural nail, making it weaker.
Question

How do I maintain a nail file?

Bianca Apetroaei

Community Answer

Fill your sink with hot water, and add a couple drops of antibacterial soap. Scrub the nail file, and rinse with warm water. Set out on a towel to dry, and it's good as new!
Question

What is the best nail file to use for natural nails?

Cecilia Flores

Top Answerer

A regular emery board is fine, but a frosted glass file is faster and leaves a cleaner file so there's not so much clean up.