What you need to get started:

• nail polish remover
• base coat, nail polish, top coat
• toe separators
• small soaking tub and towel
• Epsom salt, aromatherapy oils (optional), intensive moisturizer
• toenail clippers, nail file and foot file, cuticle nippers (optional)

Step 1: Remove all old nail polish thoroughly. Instead of using cotton balls, which can leave fuzzy residue, try using a lint-free cotton pad. If you have dry cuticles, add a drop of olive oil to the pad before using it on your nails.

Step 2: Using toenail clippers, cut straight across, just above the skin. Make sure the nail doesn't extend over the tip of the toe. Use a nail file to smooth rough edges. To get a soft, square shape, file nails in one direction until they are even and edges are rounded.

Step 3: Soak your feet by placing them in a soaking tub filled with warm water for 10 minutes. Add a half cup of Epsom salt and any of your favorite aromatherapy oils. Use a foot file to smooth away dead skin from heels and balls of your feet. Pat feet dry with a towel.

Step 4: Apply a cuticle remover to the base of each nail and rub it in. Using a circular motion, gently push everywhere where the skin meets the nail, including sides. Use cuticle nippers to remove any loose skin.

Step 5: Rinse off feet and dry them.  Apply generous amounts of moisturizing lotion or foot cream. Wash off toenails with soap and water and let them dry completely before applying polish.

Step 6: Insert toe separators in between your toes.  Apply a thin base coat and let it dry for a few minutes.  Then apply two coats of your favorite nail polish.  Finish off your nails with a thin top coat. Use a Q-tip dipped in a small amount of nail polish remover to clean up any errors. Let your nails dry for at least 40 minutes.

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