1. Remove Old Polish

You can’t get a great looking set of fingernails if you don’t start with a clean palette, which makes removing old polish one of the most important steps for a super fast manicure. Use nail polish remover to get rid of any polish currently on your nails. Then rinse your hands with warm water to get rid of any polish remover left behind. Warm water also softens your cuticles so you can push them back if needed.

2. Clip

Use a sharp pair of nail clippers to trim your fingernails to the desired length. I prefer short nails because it’s easier to type, but you can keep yours long or short, depending on your preference. Try to get your nails to similar lengths, though, because that creates a more streamlined and flawless look than having some long nails and some short ones.

3. File and Buff

Next, you’ll want to shape and buff your nails. Use a file to shape each nail. Make sure you only file in one direction for the best results. Use a buffing block to smooth out any ridges on the surface of your nails. Wipe off any remaining residue so it doesn’t get stuck in your nail polish.

4. Apply a Base Coat

A base coat gives your nail color something to stick to and helps prevent nail discolorations from dark colored polish. Apply your base coat very thinly because that allows for a faster drying time, and thus a lightening fast manicure that doesn’t drag out for hours.

5. Apply Polish

Now comes the fun part. Choose the color you want to apply to your nails. With so many choices at the makeup counter and at department stores, you will never have a lack of options. Fortunately, changing your color is fast and easy so you can try out all your favorites. Some nail experts recommend choosing lighter colors, however, because small chips aren’t as noticeable as if you’re wearing a really dark color of nail polish. Still, the choice is up to you. Apply two thin coats of color.

6. Finish with a Top Coat

Now you’ll want to swipe on another coat of clear top coat nail polish. This helps seal your color and gives your nails tons of shine. Again, make sure you apply it thinly so that it dries faster, which is one of the easiest ways to get a really quick manicure. Look for a base coat/top coat combination product or opt for one that is specially designed for each job.

7. Try a Fast Drying Technique

Now is the time when I grab a magazine or the remote control and lounge on the couch while my polish dries. If you’re in more of a hurry than that, try a quick trying technique. Dipping your nails in really cold water for a minute or two is one way to do this. You can also hold your fingers in front of a fan, spritz them with cooking spray, use your blow dryer or stick your hands in the freezer. Each of these methods serves to set nail polish much more quickly than just sitting there waiting for it to dry.

How often do you do a manicure? I’m a twice a week kind of girl and I don’t like going without polish. Do you have any other great fast manicure tips?