Filing:

1. Upgrade your standard emery board to a crystal file as these are the ‘Rolls Royce' of nail files (not to be confused with glass ones). They seal the nail edge as they work, meaning no splitting or catching to the nail.

2. If you're using a conventional file, always sweep from side to centre - only crystal files can be used back and forth.

3. Crystal files also last the longest; in fact Leighton Denny's have a lifetime guarantee so you can pass them on to the grandchildren! (from £10, leightondenny.com)

Buffing:

4. Buffing the nail is like exfoliating the skin - but only buff occassionally as over-buffing can thin the nail.

5. Buffing benefits: buffing stimulates circulation (through the heat it creates), smoothes ridges and removes stains.

6. A buffer has three sides, 1, 2 and 3. Use all three sides when using it for the first time and then just sides 2 and 3 to bring back the shine every few days. Only use side 1 on new nail growth.

Cuticle care:

7. Don't cut cuticles! Cuticles protect new nail growth and damaging them can cause bacteria entering the nail and infecting it

8. To tidy cuticles, use cuticle cream with exfoliating AHAs, which gently remove excess skin and moisturise at same time.

Removing nail colour:

To avoid that nasty post-polish stain, follow this simple way to remove coloured nail varnish:

9. Take a fluff-free cotton pad with nail varnish remover and hold down, pressing lightly on the nail for a few seconds. Allow the remover to soften the polish and then wipe away from the cuticle to the tip. Repeat again if necessary.

10. Don't rub nail polish remover back and forth into the nail as this will only cause the polish to stain.

New season shades for spring/summer '08:

They are fresh, feminine and oh-so wearable, check out the new spring/summer shades at leightondenny.com

£10, stockist 0845 8620515

Click here to see how to show off your mitts with the hottest shades...