LONDON: Celebrity nail manicurist Michelle Humphrey, renowned for her work with celebrities like Rita Ora and Dua Lipa, has pinpointed a common mistake that can lead to unpleasant nail discolouration. According to an article by The Mirror Magazine, Humphrey, who caters to stars globally including Dua Lipa, Lily Allen, and Rita Ora, possesses deep insight into nail care.
Humphrey, based in London, asserts that while nail polish is generally forgiving, there are errors that can result in unsightly staining. Speaking to The Mirror, she emphasized the crucial step of applying a base coat, stating, “Always apply a base coat. It acts as an anchor for your colour. Many people wonder why their nails become stained, and I can usually identify the reason right away.” She recounted an instance where a client’s nails turned “a bit yellowy” due to the omission of a base coat while applying dark green polish hastily on a job.
Moreover, leaving nail colour on for an extended duration can exacerbate staining. Humphrey cautioned, “Your nails will grow out, leading to discoloration of the nail bed. Even with a base coat, prolonged wear can cause staining.”
In addition to a base coat, Humphrey recommends utilizing a quality top coat to even out any colour imperfections. She remarked, “A good top coat smooths out any streaks or unevenness in the application. With a high-quality top coat, imperfections are usually camouflaged.”
Furthermore, Humphrey advocates for overall nail health, advising regular cuticle oiling to maintain nail plate flexibility and prevent dryness and hangnails, especially during winter months. She stressed the importance of this practice for maintaining healthy nails.
