FireFly

Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1 The hand and foot in detail
Chapter 2 Equipment and tools
Chapter 3 Manicure and pedicure basics
Chapter 4 Tips, wraps, acrylics, and gels
Chapter 5 Nail fashion
Chapter 6 Nail remedies

Gallery
Taking it further
Suppliers
Terminology
Index

Introduction

As well as using our hands for all sorts of practical tasks, we also use them as a way of expressing ourselves and emphasizing what we're saying. They're one of the first things people notice, which is why we need to make the most of them. Beautifully manicured and maintained nails are much-prized attributes that speak volumes about your health and grooming, not to mention your attention to detail.

Neglected hands certainly create a poor impression: bitten nails or torn cuticles indicate a lack of confidence, while perfectly manicured hands suggest somebody who pays attention to detail and takes pride in their appearance.

Everyone can have great looking hands with basic care, meticulous grooming, and regular visits to a professional manicurist. Here they will be buffed, trimmed, softened, painted and filed, massaged and lathered, sloughed, primped, and preened over. Never before has such a variety of artificial nail products been available to extend, repair, or even just strengthen the nail plate, nor has there every been such a selection of possibilities for adornment, from creative coloring, transfers, and stencils to rhinestones and gems.

Manicurists and pedicurists are now focused on a lot more than just the natural nail. These days they need to be fully versed nail technicians, conversant in advanced nail technologies and methods, creativity and artistry, business management, and so much more. One of the fastest growing segments in the beauty business, the nail industry is constantly evolving with new technologies, techniques, and products continually being introduced, providing the nail technician with so much more to ensure the luxury of beautiful nails.

Once you know how to take care of your nails, it will be easy to maintain healthy nails. Beautiful healthy nails require a little TLC -- not as complicated as you might think. Nails are usually their healthiest in their natural state, requiring a bit of nail polish for protection and regular applications of hand cream as a moisturizer. Allow time for a home manicure every 7 to 14 days with weekly time for touch-ups. Regular home manicures will protect your nails and help improve your image. Good grooming is essential to keeping and maintaining your hands and feet in prime condition.

 

The finished look that comes from a professional manicure is now at your fingertips with this detailed guidebook on nail care.... Toselli goes far beyond the basics and provides easy to follow instructions for a wide range of treatments for hands and feet.... From a classic French manicure to pointy talons, this book has you covered.
- Terry Peters  North Shore News  2010 01 15

Toselli offers us common, nonlicensed folks [the] secrets of professionals, among many other things.
- Jason Ashley Wright  Tulsa World  2009 11 01

Would make great [a] stocking stuffer for the fashionista on your list.... Leigh Toselli offers us common nonlicensed folks secrets of the professionals, among many other things.
- Jason Ashley Wright  Tulsa World  2010 11 10