Give yourself a relaxing mani-pedi

Getting your nails done is refreshing, relaxing, and can make you feel more beautiful and confident. We'll teach you how to do it yourself so that you can avoid pricey trips to the salon and put your best foot forward.

Here's what you'll need:

• Nail polish remover
• Cotton balls (or makeup remover pads)
• Cotton swabs
• Protective base polish
• Coloured polish

1. Remove any remnants of polish from your nails using cotton balls. Dip a cotton swab into the polish remover and work it around the cuticles.
2. Rest your hands by turn on a firm surface and work from the little finger in. Apply the base coat right to the edges in three rotating strokes: center, right, and left.
3. Wait for the base coat to dry.
4. Roll the coloured nail polish bottle between your palms to mix. Paint on a thin layer in three strokes. Be sure that the first coat is dry and then apply a second, covering any gaps in the first.

Here's what you'll need:

• Nail polish remover
• Exfoliating cream
• Bath oil
• Pumice
• Toenail clippers
• Emery board
• Cuticle remover
• Cotton swabs
• Body moisturizer
• Cotton balls (or a toe separator)
• Nail polish

1. Remove any trace of nail polish (flecks and chips of old polish send the misleading message that you don't wash your feet).
2. Use exfoliating cream to rub away dead skin.
3. Give your feet a soak in a bowl of warm water laced with bath oil for about five minutes. This isn't just relaxing: it also softens skin and nails.
4. Use pumice to rub away hard skin from the heels and balls of the feet.
5. Dry your feet completely and trim your toenails. Smooth them with the coarse side of the emery board. The nails should be quite square, not shaped.
6. Apply cuticle remover to the cuticles and use a cotton swab to ease them gently back. Wash off any excess and dry thoroughly once more.
7. Massage a moisturizing cream into your feet.
8. Use cotton balls or a store-bought toe separator to hold your toes apart. If you're right-handed, work from left to right and apply a base coat of varnish in three strokes: one down the center and one to each side. Allow the paint some time to dry and then apply another coat or two.

Whether you want your hands to look immaculate or want your feet at their best for a new pair of sandals, these tips are sure to help. And remember: it's never a bad time to treat yourself to some beauty and relaxation.