1. Shape or file the nails:
Never use a file on wet finger nails. There are four basic nail shapes: square, round, oval and pointed. The nail should be shaped to conform to the shape of the finger. File each nail from the corner to the center, going from left to right and then right to left. Don't slide the file back and forth over the tip of your nail and don't over file the sides of the nail, this will lead to weakening and breaking.
2. Soak hands in a bowl of soapy water for 5-10 minutes to soften any dry skin or rough cuticles. If you have dry skin, soak your hands in a thick hand cream or Vaseline instead of the water solution. Apply a thick coat of the cream or Vaseline over your hands, wrap your hands in gloves or saran wrap, and allow them to set for 10-15 minutes.
3. Apply a combination of soap and salt or sugar to exfoliate the hands. The mixture should be of a thick consistency. An exfoliating cream can be used in place of the salt/sugar mixture, if you would prefer. The exfoliating mixture will remove any old, dry skin cells and leave your hands feeling softer. Generously rub the exfoliating mixture over hands and around nails for several minutes. Rinse hands.
4. Gently dry hands with a clean towel. Rub the cuticle area of each finger with the edge of the towel.
5. Gently push back the cuticle of each nail with a cuticle pusher or orangewood stick. Never cut your cuticles, this can cause pain and infection. Use the cuticle pusher to clean underneath each nail.
6. Apply a good amount of hand lotion to each hand and massage it into your skin. Using one hand, massage the palm of the other hand, working the lotion into your skin. Using the thumb of the opposing hand, massage around each cuticle and nail. Slowly rotate each finger, and then rotate the wrist. Gently twist the fingers of the opposing hand up and down each finger. Work the lotion up to the elbow, massaging the arm. Switch to the other hand.
7. Wipe any extra lotion off of the hands with a clean, dry towel. Rub towel gently over each nail and around each cuticle to remove any excess lotion.
8. Apply polish or clear coat. Let the polish dry, then apply the second coat.
Giving yourself a manicure once a week will keep your hands looking healthier and younger.