Achieving a flawless at-home manicure can feel like an impossible task, especially when you attempt to apply nail polish without making a mess. However, with the right techniques and a little bit of patience, you can master the art of applying your favorite nail color neatly and get salon-perfect results in the comfort of your own home. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you accomplish just that.

1. Gather your materials: To start, gather all the essential tools and materials you’ll need, such as nail polish remover, cotton balls, a nail file, clippers, base coat, nail polish in your desired color, and a top coat.

2. Prepare your nails: Begin by removing any existing nail polish with nail polish remover and cotton balls. Then trim and file your nails to your preferred shape. Push back your cuticles gently with a cuticle pusher or orange stick and buff your nails lightly.

3. Wash your hands: Cleanse your hands with warm water and soap to remove any remaining oils or residue from the surface of your nails. This will ensure better adhesion of the nail polish.

4. Apply a base coat: Start by applying a thin layer of base coat to each nail, which helps to protect your nails from staining and improves overall durability.

5. Shake the nail polish bottle: Gently shake the bottle to ensure even distribution of pigments inside before opening it.

6. Wipe off excess nail polish: Using the brush applicator, wipe off excess polish against the neck of the bottle so there’s just enough on one side of the brush.

7. Apply the first coat: Hold the brush parallel to your nail and start from the middle near the cuticle line. Push gently towards the cuticle before drawing the brush forwards in one smooth stroke down to the tip. Repeat for both sides of the nail with strokes along the edges. Use light pressure and avoid going too close to the cuticle or sidewalls to prevent smudging.

8. Let it dry: Give your first coat of polish time to dry (following the drying time recommended by the manufacturer). This is crucial for building a strong foundation for your next layer.

9. Apply the second coat: Once your first coat is completely dry, apply a second coat using the same technique as before. This will help build opacity and even out any streaks or patches from the previous layer.

10. Apply a top coat: To seal and protect your nail polish, finish by applying a top coat once your second coat has dried completely. This adds shine and longevity to your manicure.

11. Clean up any mistakes: Use a small brush dipped in nail polish remover or use a cotton swab/q-tip to clean up any remaining smudges or excess polish around your nails.

12. Allow nails to dry thoroughly: Finally, let your nails dry completely before touching anything or doing any activities that may cause smudging.

By following these steps, you can now apply nail polish neatly and flaunt salon-quality results from the comfort of your own home. Just remember, practice makes perfect, so keep at it until you achieve that flawless manicure you’ve always wanted.