Tricks of the trade for hair and nails in self-isolation

If you are like me, you love your hairdresser.

I’ve worked in the beauty industry for over 40 years and I know that the relationship between a stylist or nail tech and a client is very special. Unfortunately, most of us are stuck now, because of the order from the governor to close all salons.

There are some things you can do at home to maintain your hair and nails. First, let’s talk about hair. This is not the time to make a big change. Leave that to the professionals. 

However, there are great products available at your local drug store to help cover up the grays and maintain your color. Loreal and Revlon both have good do-it-yourself kits available. The kits come with everything you need but I would invest in a kit that has a brush for application. They are under $5 and will have a mixing bowl. 

The reason I think using a brush to apply the color is best is because you have more control. You will also need a hair clip and Chapstick. The brush will have a pointy end that is great to section off the hair, as you apply the color. Start at the hairline as this is the area that people see first. Before you start, take the chapstick and use it on the skin around your hairline. This is a hairstylist trick to keep the color from dyeing your skin.

I suggest you go on YouTube and watch a video first. I know it looks easy but there are a few important things to know.

Now for your nails: Set up a small area as your work station. Put a towel down first and remember that acetone will eat through most anything so it’s important to be careful of spills. If you have gel polish or dip on your nails you will need acetone to remove it. 

The best way is to soak a cotton ball in the acetone and then put it on the polish. Then wrap a piece of aluminum foil around your fingertip. This does two things. It keeps the smell from the acetone down but also the foil packet will heat up a little from your body heat and remove the gel quicker. It should only take 15 minutes. It’s easier to do one hand at a time. Once you have all of the product off your nail, take a nail file and gently shape you nails. Don’t saw back and forth as this will shred your nail.  When you have them all the desired shape and length, it’s time for polish. There are some great gel polishes at your local drugstore that do not require a light. You will need to buy the base and topcoat as well. Be patient because there is a learning curve to applying polish. Have an orangewood stick available.  If you accidentally polish your skin simply wrap a very small piece of cotton around the tip and dip it in the acetone. Then, you can gently remover the polish. One of the things that will come out of the whole thing is you will have a greater appreciation for your nail tech and hair stylist!