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![Problem: Dry Cuticles and Nails]()
Ending the day with a cuticle oil massage has two benefits: not only does it hydrate cracked skin, but also, it's just plain relaxing. CND's Solar Oil ($3) contains jojoba and almond oils as well as vitamin E, ensuring you'll have smooth, hydrated digits.![Problem: Rough Cuticles]()
If cuticle oil isn't enough to soften up hard, rough skin, brush on Butter London Melt Away ($19), which helps break down dead skin cells and softens up cuticles for easy removal without any cutting and trimming.![Problem: Ridges]()
Smooth out bumpy, uneven nails with a ridge-filling base coat, such as Deborah Lippmann Ridge Filler Base ($19). The matte finish looks great on its own, but it also creates the perfect canvas for any manicure without any lines.![Problem: Yellowing]()
Everything from smoking to fungal infection can cause nails to start yellowing. Try soaking nails in lemon juice and then topping them off with Barielle Nail Brightener ($16). Be cautioned: if things don't clear up, a trip to the doctor may be in order, as a fungal infection could be present.![Problem: Peeling]()
If your nails are peeling away in layers, then reach for Nail Tek Intensive Therapy II ($10). This product contains protein to strengthen thin nails and bond together each layer.![Problem: Splitting]()
Sidestep chipped, cracked-down-the-center nails using Nailtique Formula 1 ($9). Keratin, calcium, and protein combine to thicken nails and repair splits.![Problem: Stagnant Growth]()
If your nail length seems to be at a standstill, then try Butter London Horse Power Nail Fertilizer ($18), which contains herbs and minerals, particularly silica, which have been proven to help grow nails. You can also add biotin supplements to your diet to encourage nail and hair growth.![Problem: Smudges]()
Don't give your nails enough time to dry? Tacky nails can lead to smudging, so top any polish with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat ($10) for a high-shine finish in minutes. For added insurance, swipe on some cuticle oil after you've let the top coat dry for a few minutes.![Problem: Thickened Polish]()
If your favorite bottle of polish has started to thicken over time, you can revive it with a couple drops of OPI Nail Lacquer Thinner ($9). Your favorite enamel will be brought back to an ideal consistency for optimal application.![Problem: Dark Spots]()
Lack of sun protection, gel manicures, and age can lead to hyperpigmentation on the backs of your hands. You can even out any discoloration with a brightening hand cream like Clinique Even Better Dark Spot Correcting Hand Cream SPF 15 ($30).11 Solutions to Your Top Manicure Problems
Every time there's a new polish launch, we get all giddy inside, but ridges, splitting nails, and unsightly cuticles can sabotage a manicure. Whatever your hand and nail issues may be, there are plenty of treatments catered to curing your specific ailments. READ: The Home Hair Color Spectrum, Decoded With a little diligence you can get your hands back into tip top shape and ready for showing off everything from classic polish shades to awe-inspiring nail art.
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- 11 Solutions to Your Top Manicure Problems
