Celebrity manicurist Beth Fricke knows a thing or two about nails. After all, she’s worked on covers for Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour,
and Black Book. And her list of clients is no joke: Heidi Klum, Drew Barrymore, and Mariah Carey. Currently, Fricke is serving as O.P.I’s Celebrity Manicurist and she continues to contribute to various publications on emerging trends.

We may not all have access to her, but here are a few of her
tips.

They say that nail condition is an important indicator
of health. What irregularities should we look for and what health problems to
they point to?

White spots can be an indicator of diet issues or damage (like a smashed finger). Ridges in the nail can be from too dry cuticles or
damage. Purple or blue looking nails or hands are indication of circulatory issues.

How can you extend the life of a manicure?

The best, easiest way is to put an additional coat of topcoat on and then apply oil to the cuticles.

What nail colors are complimentary on all skin tones?

There are some sheers and slightly darker reds that seem to work pretty universally.

Why should we use different products to moisturize our
nails than for our hands?

When we moisturize hands, we are trying to moisturize the skin. When we do nails, we are trying to moisturize parts under the skin or the
layered nail, that both require substantially more penetration.

What tips do you recommend to ensure a perfect manicure
at home?

File the nails the same shape. Clean out under the nails to make sure there are no rough edges or corners.  Gently buff over the top of
the nail and cuticle with a soft (220 grit or higher) buffer and then brush them with a wet nail brush.

Before you polish, wipe the nail with some polish remover to remove any oils  Make sure you hit the outer edge of the nail with polish
and with the top coat to seal it in.