Remove old polish with cotton wool and a non acetone nail polish remover.
File your nails into shape. The most elongating and protective shape is a squoval, where the sides are straight but the top is curved. Always file in the same direction from the outside towards the middle, this prevents damage to the nail layers.
Soak your nails in a little warm water for a few minutes to soften the cuticle which can then be easily pushed back with a cuticle stick. If there is a lot of cuticle left, apply a touch of cuticle remover to each nail. Leave for two or three minutes, then wipe off. This will remove any excess cuticle without harming the nail bed. Wash and dry your hands well.
Apply the base coat and leave to dry. Then apply polish. It is best to apply 2 or 3 thin coats. Start at the base of the nail and sweep up in one movement. Cover the middle of the nail first and then the edges. Any over the edge mistakes can be removed with an orange stick dipped in a little nail polish remover.
After the nail is dry, apply a top coat. To prolong the colour, apply it over the nail, under and over the tip. Wait a good half hour before touching anything and remember that nail polish can take up to five hours to dry completely.