Polish your style with Zarra Celik!

Polish your style with Zarra Celik, Max Factor Nail Artist!

 What is the most on trend nail shape for SS12 and how do you achieve it?
Oval nails are in vogue for SS12 and the great thing about this shape is that it flatters all hands. They look feminine and pretty and you can achieve this shape with long or short nails.

What colours are bang on trend for SS12?
Candy colours, such as aquamarines and candy pinks will be really prominent - as well nudes.
  
Nails are getting more creative, what designs are hot for SS12?
To be on trend for SS12, your nail look should accessorize your outfit. Play with colour to mix, match and clash your nail look to your clothes daily. Bold patterns, clean lines and half moon manicures featured on the catwalks this season, so play with stripes, dots and colourful moons and tips. 3D nail art will be on the up if you’re really creative.

What is the simplest way to create polka dots?
To achieve polka dots you need a nail dotting tool which you can buy from naildelights.com or ebay.co.uk, alternatively you can use a tooth pick. The trick to perfecting this striking look is to choose two contrasting colours like Max Factor Max Colour Effect Mini Nail Polish in Mellow Yellow and Pretty in Pink. First, evenly apply two thin coats of Factor Max Colour Effect Mini Nail Polish in Mellow Yellow – waiting for each layer to dry. Then, using your dotter or tooth pick dip the tip into Pretty in Pink and dab onto the nail, holding it down for a brief second. Don’t dot randomly, the trick to this effect is to keep your polka dots in line. 

 What is the simplest way to create a stripe effect?
To achieve a striped effect you need a nail striper, alternatively you can use a very fine paint brush. Make sure you wait for your base polish to dry before painting on your stripes. Horizontal stripes are easiest, but you’ll need a steady hand.

What are your main dos and don’ts for nail art?
There are no rules in nail art, just experiment! When it comes to nail art, it’s all about having a full palette of colour at your fingertips and the desire to shake up your look.  The more you contrast your nail colours, the more striking the effect.

What colours look really striking together?
Anything goes but I really like strong colours that clash. Turquoise and pinks looks good together, try Max Factor Max Colour Effect Mini Nail Polish in Cool Jade and Lollipop. 

What are your favourite Max Colour Effect Mini shades and why?
I love the Dalston collection from the new Max Colour Effect Mini Nail Polish range as it’s bright and bold and the shades clash.

What is the most creative nail look you’ve ever created?
I was at a hen party and me and a group of friends were staying in a chalet and the bride-to-be asked me to create floral patterned nails inspired by the curtains. They looked amazing – taupe nail base decorated with pink, yellow and purple flowers. 

1.     How do you stop nails from chipping the day after you’ve painted them?

The trick to creating gorgeous looking nails that last is to apply two very thin coats of polish, don’t overdo it by sweeping it on too thick. Then once dry, follow up with a good top coat, brushing over the edges of your nail tips to really seal in the colour. Try Max Factor Nailfinity Top Coat.

2.     What are the best nail colours to show off your summer tan?

Vibrant colours that pop against the skin really show off a tan. I’d recommend a hot pink like Max Factor Max Colour Effect Mini Nail Polish in Lollipop. The new Max Colour Effect Mini Nail Polish Collection is perfect for summer, as it offers a rainbow of colour to compliment your summer wardrobe. What’s more, they mini in size so it’s easy to squeeze a few into your holiday wash bag.   

3.     There are lots of myths around how to file your nails – what’s the best way to file them / what’s the best type of nail file you can use (glass, wood, metal)??

Avoid metal nail file as they are too course and can lead to nail splitting. Red emery boards are no good either. Your nail file should be smooth to touch. 

4.    Does nail polish weaken your nails?

No, this is a myth! Nail polish strengthens your nails as it helps to protect them.

6.    Is buffing good for your nails?

A light buff is good for your nails, it smoothes out ridges and helps with smoother application. Don’t over buff.

7.     Cutting cuticles...bad idea?

Always leave cuticle cutting to the professionals. People often make the mistake of cutting live skin that can lead to infection. Or, just wait until after you’ve had a hot bath or shower as the skin is soft and supple – and gently push back your cuticles with your opposite fingers.

8.    What are your three best tips to keep nails in shape?

Regularly file, lightly buff and apply cuticle oil every two weeks. Moisturise hands with almond oil, as hand cream doesn’t moisturise your cuticle skin.

9.     How do you strengthen your nails?

Filing regularly helps but try eating a handful of almonds everyday to improve strength. To prevent nails from peeling and splitting eat a handful of hazelnuts.