We asked you to send in your nail dilemmas so we could pass them on to celebrity manicurist Maria Salandra and get them solved. Maria polished the nails of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger on the set of Chicago, and she regularly gives the Sopranos women their rosy-tipped talons. Now she's here to help you get starworthy hands.
From: Joanna, Becky, and Rachel Subject: Peeling Nails
The top layers of my nails always seem to peel away, leaving the softer nail underneath exposed. Is there anything I can do to stop it, or at least remedy it so it doesn't look so bad?
Maria says: Filing your nails correctly is a start. Always file each nail one way, from the corner of the nail to the center, and then do the same to the other side. Never file from side to side — you'll make tiny little fractures in the nail that will come out later and eventually peel. Also, always remember to use a basecoat and a top coat when applying nail polish — they are a must for protecting nails!
From: Elizabeth Subject: Sizzling Shades
I was wondering what the hot colors for summer are. Also, is the trend still to match feet and hand color, or do them separate? Thanks for your help.
Maria says: Pinks and corals are the hottest shades. They're bright and full of life — dancing fingertips and toes! Do they have to match? No, no, NO! We're girls, aren't we? We can change our minds like we change our nail polish! So experiment and have a blast!
From: Hannah Subject: Biter Anonymous
I know you've probably gotten this about a billion times, but I have been biting my nails since I was a baby and I can't stop. I've tried all sorts of things, from having oven mitts on my hands to using pepper-flavored nail gloss, but nothing works. Please help me find a way to stop biting. My nails look horrible!
Maria says: First things first. You have to start caring for your nails as you
would your hair or your body. If you take the time once a week to give yourself a manicure, or to get one, you'll see a dramatic difference in the way your
hands look. If that doesn't work, you might have to consider applying some
nail enhancements to get you over the hump and the habit of biting them off.
From: Janice Subject: Graduation Grooming
My graduation is coming up, and I want to know how I can prep my nails for the occasion.
Maria says: About six weeks before your prom or graduation, I would suggest making regular manicure appointments to prepare your nails for the big day. In case you get a chip or something in your nail during that time, always keep a very soft nail file in your purse to keep the break from snagging on something. Also, between manicures, apply a top coat every day and watch how fast your nails grow!
From: Kate Subject: Shape Up
I don't really like how my nails are shaped. When I file them, I don't know if I should make the tips round or squarelike. What is a good way to shape them?
Maria says: I like to call this shape "squoval" — square across the top and slightly rounded on the corners. This shape is best for everyone and
it's very durable against any fractures. Remember to file your nails from the corner to center — never side to side or back and forth.
From: Jenny Subject: Faking it
What is a good way to get fake nails off without ruining your nails too much. And how can I get them strong again when I'm done.
Maria says: Remove false nails by soaking them in pure acetone for about an hour. You can get acetone at your local beauty supply store; it's the most cost-effective and quickest removal system. Restoring the health of your nails takes about three months of growth. They will be dry and brittle for a while, so be sure to always have a nail strengthener on and get manicures regularly until the damaged nail grows out. Remember: No matter what anyone tells you, artificial nails will always do damage to your nails underneath. Also, be sure your technician is licensed and experienced enough to help you find the best solution for your nails.
You'll find Maria at her own nail salon, Fitness Finger Nail Studio, in Cliffside Park, NJ. For appointments call, 201-945-9115.
