Check out your prospective nail salon closely before you get a manicure. It should be spotless, the manicurists should be licensed appropriately by the state, and they should always sterilize their metal tools between uses and use new replaceable supplies for each customer.

It's possible than your nail salon won't have the colors or types of polish that you prefer for your nails. If you don't have time to check before your manicure, don't be afraid to present your manicurist with your favorites and ask her to apply them when she's done.

Low-maintenance manicures are easy, but many people leave out the buffing. A three-sided buffer is inexpensive, and you can start by buffing with the roughest side. Follow this with the next roughest and then the smooth side, and your nails will be shiny and glowing.