I admit it. I’ve struggled with maintaining my nails for years. This summer, I was able to get them to grow to a decent length, but keeping them manicured and polished wasn’t easy. Not to mention — I’m always thinking about the budget friendly option. 

Finally, I stumbled upon Essie polish and I’ve been able to keep my nail color on for seven days! (My favorite color is ballet slippers, which was Queen Elizabeth’s favorite color). I called it the seven day nail challenge. 

I’ve found that having long-lasting nail color that stays vibrant for seven days requires a combination of careful preparation, quality products, and a bit of TLC. Here are seven #selfcare beauty tips to help you maintain that perfect polish for an entire week:

A Fresh Canvas

Before you apply any polish, make sure your nails are clean and dry. Remove old nail polish and trim your nails to your desired length. Use nail polish remover to create a clean canvas for the new color.

No Peel Please

Hydrated nails are less likely to chip or peel. Use a moisturizing cuticle oil to keep your nails and cuticles nourished. Healthy nails create a foundation for the perfect polish.

A Base Is for Quality

It may take a few extra minutes, but don’t skip the base coat! This step not only helps the polish go on better but also prevents staining. Use quality base coat to create a smooth surface.

Layer It Up

You might be tempted to apply one thick layer but thin coats of nail color dry faster and are less likely to chip. Allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Just a little patience is all you need for long lasting nail color.

Seal the Deal

Complete your manicure with a high-quality top coat. This will not only add shine but also act as a protective layer, shielding your nail color from daily wear and tear. Reapply the top coat every few days for added protection.

Mindful of the Mani 

Be aware of your nails while you’re doing your daily activities like dishes, cleaning, and hair care. Try to avoid unnecessary wear on your nails. Consider wearing gloves when you’re doing tasks that involve water or chemicals. This will extend the life of your nail polish.

Quick Fixes for Lasting Results

Keep a small nail care kit handy for quick fixes. If you notice a small chip or imperfection, touch it up immediately with a bit of nail polish and a top coat. You’ve got stay on top of it to make sure your manicure looks fresh the entire week.

Add these tips into your nail care routine and you’ll be on your way to enjoying beautiful nails! Take the time to pamper your hands for seven days and make it fun by making you’re own nail challenge. 

Any other inspiring self care challenges? 

Other great tips: 

A real summer beauty refresh starts with stylish new lipstick shades. This year, I took a hard look at my makeup bag and realized it was overflowing with lipsticks that had simply gone stale. Some were dried out, others were empty, and a few were just… not it anymore. I held onto a few staples I knew I’d repurchase, but the rest? Tossed.

I’d previously tried doing a new lipstick haul—but let’s just say, I wasn’t thrilled. One of the lipsticks (from a brand I won’t name) literally broke off the first time I applied it. Tragic.

So here I am again, searching for the shades that fit every part of my life: work, play, and those daring, eccentric moments when I want to make a statement. I thought it would be easy—but the options were overwhelming. Some brands offer over 50 shades (and don’t get me started on the price range—from $2 drugstore finds to $30+ luxury bullets).

The only thing I was sure about? I’m a crème lipstick girl. Glosses are cute, but a rich, creamy lipstick? That’s where the magic happens.

I went on a little beauty mission and found shades that truly express my vibe and style.

Here’s what made the cut—and yes, you can actually buy these:

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💼 Mid Pink / Nude — Polished for Work

A “your lips but better” shade that whispers I’m put together without trying too hard.

Try:

• Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk – a cult-favorite pinky nude that flatters almost every skin tone.

• Maybelline SuperStay Ink Crayon in Lead the Way – a comfortable drugstore nude-pink that lasts all day.

💋 Hot Pink — Bold, Bombshell Energy

Fun, flirty, and a little spicy—hot pink gives instant confidence.

Try:

• MAC Girl About Town – an iconic bright fuchsia that turns heads.

• Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle in Candy Venom – bold color with a smooth matte finish.

🎀 Soft Pink — Sweet but Glam

The soft Barbie-pink moment that always works with lashes and highlighter.

Try:

• Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Primrose – a creamy, classic soft pink.

• Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipstick in Worthy – a muted pink that’s feminine and modern.

💜 Plum / Purple — Edgy with a Touch of Drama

Perfect with a smoky eye, oversized sunglasses, or an all-black outfit.

Try:

• Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Backtalk – a mauve-pink-plum hybrid that’s surprisingly wearable.

• Milani Color Statement in Sangria – a rich plum with major pigment.

🔥 Red — Timeless & Powerful

Deep or sheer, red makes you feel instantly put together.

Try:

• NARS Audacious in Rita – a statement-making classic red.

• L’Oréal Colour Riche Shine in Enamel Red – a glossy red with summer sparkle.

🍑 Bonus Shade: Red-Peach Fusion — Unexpected & Fabulous

I didn’t think it would work on me, but it’s a total summer slay.

Try:

• YSL Rouge Volupté Shine in Coral Incandescent – a luxurious peachy red that brightens your whole face.

• NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Morocco – an affordable warm red-orange with a velvety finish.

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These are my top picks for lipstick shades this summer. I’m curious—what’s in your makeup bag?

Let me know what shades you’re loving (or tossing) this season! 💄✨

There’s something undeniably powerful about a radiant smile—it’s contagious, uplifting, and one of the most beautiful expressions. But what if you could take your charm to the next level?

This National Smile Day, we’re celebrating joy and spotlighting stunning lip colors that will brighten anyone’s day. Happiness looks good on you, and these shades will have them grinning from ear to ear!

Here are some favorite lipstick brands and iconic shades that are just right for this cheerful day:

Classic Favorites

1. MAC Cosmetics – “Ruby Woo”

• Classic red that flatters almost every skin tone.

2. Fenty Beauty – “Stunna Lip Paint in Uncensored”

• Bold red with a liquid-to-matte finish.

3. NARS – “Dolce Vita”

• A soft, dusty rose that gives a natural flush.

Spring Vibes

4. Charlotte Tilbury – “Pillow Talk”

• A best-selling neutral-pink nude that enhances your natural lip tone.

5. Glossier – “Generation G in Crush”

• Sheer matte lipstick with a hint of raspberry pink.
  

Whether you’re a lover of bold reds, a soft pink enthusiast, or a fan of glossy nudes, the right lip shade can enhance your natural glow and make your smile shine even brighter.

May 31 is National Smile Day and it’s the perfect time to spread your contagious zeal.