When you step into a nail salon after a long day, the first thing you notice is how smooth and healthy the nails look. That dazzling finish isn’t luck—it’s the result of a solid routine. If you’ve just started learning how to take care of your nails, this guide gives you a clear, step‑by‑step routine that even a beginner can follow. By the end you’ll know the tools you need, how to keep nails healthy, and where to grab good products in South Africa—all at prices that fit a budget.
What Nail Care Looks Like in Practice
Being a beginner means you’re still figuring out what each step actually does. Think of the routine like a recipe: each ingredient (tool or technique) plays a specific role. When you balance the steps, your nails become stronger, less prone to breakage, and look polished without a professional visit. This isn’t about high‑end spa kits; it’s about smart, everyday care that you can do at home.
Gather Your Essentials (and Save)
| Item | Approx. Price (R) | Where to Buy | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nail clippers | 15–20 | PicknPay, Loot | Keeps nails trimmed and neat. |
| Nail file (tri‑angular) | 10–15 | PicknPay | Shapes nails, smooths edges. |
| Cuticle pusher | 5–10 | PicknPay | Helps push cuticles back safely. |
| Nail buffer | 5–8 | PicknPay | Gives a subtle shine, removes film. |
| Hand cream | 25–35 | PicknPay, Pick & Pay | Moisturises skin & nails. |
| Nail polish (base coat, colour, top coat) | 20–40 (each) | PicknPay, Woolworths | Adds colour and protection. |
With just a few basic items, you can start a full routine. Prices can vary across townships and cities, but PicknPay stores tend to have the most pocket‑friendly options.
Step 1: Clean and Prep Your Nails
- Wash your hands with mild soap and warm water. Dry them well.
- Gently push away cuticles with a soft cuticle pusher—no force. If cuticles are stuck, apply a tiny drop of moisturiser and let it sit a minute.
- Remove old polish if you have any. A simple nail polish remover can be found at PicknPay for just R10–15.
Keeping the nails and surrounding skin clean prevents infections and allows your polish to grip properly.
Step 2: File, Don’t Slice
Use the triangular file and file in one direction—never from side to side. Files are meant to smooth, not cut away deep layers. Finish with a gentle buff to remove shiny spots, but avoid over‑buffing—you’ll thin the nail.
Step 3: Trim with Care
- Trim in one smooth stroke. If your fingernails are short, you can trim with a pair of scissors—just family‑friendly scissors, not the heavy ones.
- A 1‑to‑2 mm gap between the nail and cuticle makes it harder for germs to sneak in.
Pay attention to the shape you like: square, round, or a subtle fingertip. A typical beginner shape is a soft square because it’s robust and keeps nails from catching on things.
Step 4: Polish Time—Layer by Layer
- Base coat (R20–30) – Protects the nail from staining.
- Colour coat (R30–40) – Pick a shade that suits your skin tone.
- Top coat (R20–30) – Seals the colour and adds bounce.
Apply a thin coat, let each layer dry for 2–3 minutes. This method saves time and builds a smoother finish. Don’t rush drying at home—pretend you’re waiting for a call to check your phone.
Step 5: Moisturise and Seal
After your top coat dries, rub a dime‑sized amount of hand cream under each nail. This keeps cuticles supple and prevents the nails from cracking. A quick clip: add a small splash of cuticle oil on top of your polish to keep the cuticle area hydrated.
Daily Check‑Ins
- Look for splits or peeling; if you spot weak spots, treat them with a quick polish and patching.
- Tidy edges: file a rough edge straight up before it becomes a snag.
- Keep nails trimmed: if you’re on a tight budget, do a quick trim once a week instead of daily.
Doing a short routine keeps nails from becoming a maintenance nightmare.
Bonus Saturday: Deep‑Clean Ritual
On the weekend, give yourself a quick spa session:
- Put on a mask of warmish soapy water for 5 minutes.
- Use a tiny dental pick to remove any stubborn debris from the nail bed.
- Finish with a “set” of your favourite polish.
This extra step refreshes nails and adds a shine you’ll love.
Where to Stock Up: South Africa’s Nail Services
- PicknPay: Cheap and widely available; best for everyday supplies.
- Woolworths: Slightly pricier but higher‑quality polish and hand creams.
- Superbrand: A one‑stop shop for ‘do‑it‑yourself’ kits; packages often start at R100.
Check all outlets for sales around Classic Kids offers or the national end‑of‑season clearance—R19.90 for a base coat is a common deal.
Quick FAQ
Once a week is enough for most people.
Yes, it cleans around the cuticle; use it after oil.
Trim carefully, keep them moisturised, and avoid harsh chemicals.
What You’ve Learned
You’ve got a real, simple routine that doesn’t require fancy salons or big budgets. By following these steps, you’ll protect the nails you already have and keep them looking your best—every day, at home. The routine is quick, and the results are visible—smooth, shinier nails that you can feel proud of.
Happy polishing, and enjoy the fresh, tidy look of healthy fingernails!