Stylish Minimalist Fall Nails 2025: Autumn Pedicure Ideas
As temperatures drop and boot season approaches, your toes deserve the same attention as your fingernails. Stylish Minimalist Fall Nails 2025 Autumn Pedicure Ideas are all about clean lines, thoughtful color choices, and subtle elegance that feels both modern and timeless. This fall, the minimalist movement has revolutionized pedicure design—proving that sophistication lies in simplicity, not excess. Stylish Minimalist Fall Nails 2025 Autumn Pedicure Ideas embrace clean lines, thoughtful color choices, and subtle elegance that feels both modern and timeless.
Whether you’re slipping into open-toe booties, preparing for a beach vacation, or simply maintaining self-care through the cooler months, these autumn pedicure ideas deliver impact without overwhelming detail. From rich burgundy tones to unexpected metallics and geometric accents, minimalist doesn’t mean boring—it means intentional.
Why Minimalist Pedicures Are Trending in Fall 2025

The Philosophy Behind Minimalism
Minimalist nail design isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing right. That’s why Stylish Minimalist Fall Nails 2025 Autumn Pedicure Ideas feel so popular right now—they look refined, not overdone. The movement emphasizes:
Quality over quantity: One perfectly executed shade beats five mediocre colors Intentional choices: Every element serves a purpose Timeless appeal: Designs that remain chic beyond a single season Wearability: Sophistication appropriate for any setting
Why Minimalism Works for Pedicures
Unlike fingernails that are constantly visible, pedicures offer unique opportunities:
Longer wear time: Toenail polish can last 3-6 weeks with proper care Less daily wear: Feet experience less contact damage than hands Versatile visibility: Hidden in boots or showcased in sandals as needed Lower maintenance: Simpler designs age gracefully without frequent touch-ups
The result? Minimalist pedicures deliver maximum impact with minimum fuss—perfect for the busy fall season when life gets hectic but style remains non-negotiable. With Stylish Minimalist Fall Nails 2025 Autumn Pedicure Ideas, you get a chic pedicure that stays classy for weeks.
2025 Minimalist Trends
This year’s minimalist pedicures embrace:
- Monochromatic elegance: Single sophisticated shades in rich fall tones
- Strategic accents: One detailed nail amid solid colors
- Texture contrast: Matte meets glossy, smooth meets metallic
- Negative space: Intentional bare nail as design element
- Micro details: Delicate lines, dots, or minimal seasonal touches
Fall 2025 Pedicure Color Palette

Deep Jewel Tones
Burgundy & Wine Shades The quintessential fall pedicure color—rich, sophisticated, universally flattering.

Why it works:
- Complements all skin tones from fair to deep
- Evokes autumn’s cozy, warm aesthetic
- Transitions seamlessly from day to evening
- Works with both casual and formal footwear
Top picks:
- OPI “Malaga Wine” (classic burgundy with depth)
- DND “Deep Burgundy” (gel option with staying power)
- Essie “Bahama Mama” (deep plum-burgundy)
Styling tip: Add subtle red glitter top coat for special occasions without compromising minimalism.
Emerald & Forest Green Unexpected yet elegant, green tones capture fall’s natural landscape.

Why it works:
- Olive and emerald feel earthy and seasonal
- Creates striking contrast against warm skin tones
- Pairs beautifully with fall wardrobes (rust, camel, chocolate)
- Offers alternative to predictable fall reds
Top picks:
- OPI “Infinite Shine Olive for Green” (muted, sophisticated)
- DND “Emerald Forest” (deep jewel tone)
- Zoya “Hunter” (true olive)
Styling tip: Pair with gold toe rings or anklets for elevated minimalism.
Warm Earth Neutrals
Mocha & Chocolate Browns Underrated and incredibly chic, browns are fall’s secret weapon.

Why it works:
- Elongates appearance of feet and legs
- Complements autumn’s natural color palette
- Professional yet stylish
- Works with literally every outfit combination
Top picks:
- OPI “You Don’t Know Jacques” (warm mocha)
- Essie “Partner in Crime” (rich chocolate)
- DND “Golden Dust” (mocha with bronze shimmer)
Bronze shimmer variation: Add light bronze top coat to alternate toes for dimensional minimalism.
Terracotta & Clay Tones Earthy reds that feel both modern and grounded.

Why it works:
- Bridges the gap between orange and brown
- Sophisticated take on traditional fall orange
- Universally flattering warmth
- Perfectly captures autumn’s sunset palette
Top picks:
- OPI “Cajun Shrimp” (coral-terracotta)
- DND “Coral Reef” (bright coral with sophistication)
- Essie “Rocky Rose” (muted clay-rose)
Unexpected Minimalist Shades
Muted Sage & Soft Greens Light greens offer refreshing alternative to heavy fall tones.

Why it works:
- Provides visual lightness in darker wardrobe season
- Feels sophisticated, not seasonal
- Works beautifully on brown and olive skin tones
- Creates interesting contrast with fall fashion
Top picks:
- OPI “Samoan Sand” (barely-there sage)
- Essie “Mint Candy Apple” (soft pastel green)
- DND “Matcha Green” (muted, sophisticated)
Gray & Charcoal Modern neutrals that feel elevated and intentional.

Why it works:
- Ultimate sophistication without trying
- Complements metallics beautifully
- Works year-round but feels particularly chic in fall
- Perfect base for minimalist accent details
Top picks:
- DND “Slate Gray” (true medium gray)
- OPI “Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees” (charcoal with depth)
- Essie “Chinchilly” (classic gray with warmth)
Minimalist Pedicure Designs by Style
Classic Single-Shade Sophistication
The Power of Simplicity
Sometimes the most impactful choice is no design at all—just one perfectly executed shade.
Design 1: Glossy Burgundy Elegance
Description: High-shine burgundy on all toes with professional finish.
Application:
- Prep toes with cuticle care and light buffing
- Apply base coat to prevent staining
- Two thin coats of burgundy (OPI “Malaga Wine”)
- High-gloss top coat for mirror finish
Difficulty: Beginner Time: 30 minutes Longevity: 3-4 weeks
Best for: Professionals, classic style lovers, those prioritizing ease
Pro tip: The key to elevated single-shade pedicures is immaculate application—take time on cuticle cleanup for that salon-quality edge.
Design 2: Matte Mocha Sophistication
Description: Velvety mocha brown with luxurious matte finish.
Application:
- Standard pedicure prep
- Base coat
- Two coats mocha brown (OPI “You Don’t Know Jacques”)
- Matte top coat (Essie “Matte About You”)
Difficulty: Beginner Time: 30 minutes Longevity: 2-3 weeks (matte shows wear faster)
Best for: Modern minimalists, cozy aesthetic lovers
Maintenance tip: Reapply matte top coat every 5-7 days to maintain finish without full repaint.
Design 3: Deep Emerald Jewel Tone
Description: Rich emerald green with glossy depth.
Why it’s minimalist: Single striking color makes a statement without embellishment.

Application:
- Prep and base coat
- Two coats emerald (DND “Emerald Forest”)
- Optional: Light gold shimmer top coat on big toe only
- Glossy seal
Difficulty: Beginner Time: 35 minutes Longevity: 3-4 weeks with gel, 2-3 weeks regular polish
Best for: Those wanting seasonal color without predictable fall tones
Minimal Accent Designs
Strategic Single-Toe Focus
Minimalism allows one nail to shine while others provide supporting elegance.
Design 4: Gold Foil Accent on Burgundy

Description: Four burgundy toes + one big toe with gold foil detail.
Application:
- Paint all toes burgundy (two coats)
- On big toe only: apply foil adhesive in random placement
- Press gold foil onto tacky adhesive
- Seal entire foot with glossy top coat
Difficulty: Intermediate Time: 45 minutes Longevity: 3-4 weeks
Why it works: Gold catches light, creating luxury without overwhelming simplicity.
Pro tip: Less foil is more—small strategic pieces feel intentional, not cluttered.
Design 5: Minimalist Leaf Art on Nude

Description: Soft nude base with delicate leaf outline on big toe.
Application:
- Paint all toes sheer nude (two coats)
- On big toe, use fine liner brush to draw simple leaf outline
- Add center vein and 2-3 side veins in brown or gold
- Optional: Tiny dot of rhinestone at leaf stem
- Glossy top coat
Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced Time: 60 minutes Longevity: 2-3 weeks
Alternative method: Use stamping plate or nail sticker for crisp results without artistic skill.
Best for: Those wanting seasonal touch without bold statement.
Design 6: Single Rhinestone Elegance

Description: Neon coral or deep wine with single rhinestone on big toe.
Application:
- Apply base color to all toes (two coats)
- While final coat slightly tacky, place single rhinestone at base or side of big toe nail
- Seal with gel top coat or nail glue for security
- Careful glossy top coat avoiding rhinestone
Difficulty: Beginner Time: 35 minutes Longevity: 3+ weeks with proper adhesion
Minimalist philosophy: One quality rhinestone (Swarovski or high-quality crystal) elevates entire pedicure without excess.
Texture & Finish Contrasts
Design 7: Matte-Glossy Combination

Description: Alternating matte and glossy nails in same color family.
Example combinations:
- Matte sage green (4 toes) + glossy emerald (big toe)
- Matte charcoal (4 toes) + glossy black (big toe)
- Matte nude (4 toes) + glossy rose gold (big toe)
Application:
- Apply base color to all toes
- Matte top coat on smaller toes
- Glossy top coat on big toe
- Ensure complete drying between finish types
Difficulty: Beginner Time: 40 minutes Longevity: 2-3 weeks
Why it’s brilliant: Creates visual interest through texture rather than complex design.
Design 8: Metallic Chrome Accent
Description: Nude or muted base with chrome powder on big toe.
Application:
- Apply base color, cure if using gel
- On big toe only: apply no-wipe gel top coat
- Cure 60 seconds
- Rub chrome powder onto tacky surface with eyeshadow applicator
- Buff until mirror finish achieved
- Seal with regular top coat (not gel) or special chrome sealer
Difficulty: Intermediate (requires gel system) Time: 45 minutes Longevity: 3+ weeks
Chrome color options:

- Bronze/copper (warmest, most fall-appropriate)
- Gold (classic elegance)
- Silver (cool modern aesthetic)
- Rose gold (romantic sophistication)
Geometric Minimalism
Design 9: Clean French with Fall Twist

Description: Traditional French pedicure with colored tips instead of white.
Fall color variations:
- Terracotta tips on nude base
- Burgundy tips on soft pink
- Olive tips on cream base
- Navy tips on light gray
Application:
- Apply base color (two coats, full nail)
- Let dry completely (10 minutes)
- Use striping tape or French guide for clean line
- Paint colored tip (one-two coats)
- Remove guide while wet
- Glossy top coat
Difficulty: Intermediate Time: 50 minutes Longevity: 2-3 weeks
Pro tip: Angled French (diagonal line) feels more modern than traditional curved.
Design 10: Minimalist Stripe Accent

Description: Single thin stripe down center or side of nail.
Options:
- Gold metallic stripe on burgundy
- Navy stripe on mustard yellow
- White stripe on forest green
- Metallic silver stripe on charcoal
Application:
- Apply base color, let fully dry
- Use ultra-thin striping brush or tape
- Paint single precise line
- Let dry 5 minutes untouched
- Careful top coat application
Difficulty: Intermediate Time: 45 minutes Longevity: 2-3 weeks
Minimalist principle: Single line creates elegance; multiple lines risk busy appearance.
Subtle Color Blocking
Design 11: Two-Tone Toe Design

Description: Big toe one color, remaining toes coordinating shade.
Effective combinations:
- Big toe: Deep burgundy | Others: Soft nude
- Big toe: Emerald green | Others: Gold metallic
- Big toe: Burnt orange | Others: Chocolate brown
- Big toe: Navy | Others: Light gray
Application:
- Paint big toe with statement color (two coats)
- Paint remaining toes with coordinating color (two coats)
- Ensure colors share undertones (warm with warm, cool with cool)
- Glossy top coat on all
Difficulty: Beginner Time: 35 minutes Longevity: 3-4 weeks
Why it works: Creates visual interest without requiring artistic skill.
Design 12: Gradient Ombre Effect
Description: Gradual color transition from big toe to pinky toe.
Application:
- Choose 3-4 shades in same color family (light to dark)
- Paint big toe darkest shade
- Progress through toes with increasingly lighter shades
- Pinky toe receives lightest shade
- Glossy top coat for cohesion
Example progressions:
- Burgundy → Rose → Nude → Barely pink
- Forest green → Olive → Sage → Cream
- Navy → Slate → Gray → Light gray
Difficulty: Beginner Time: 40 minutes Longevity: 3-4 weeks
Step-by-Step Pedicure Tutorials
Tutorial 1: At-Home Spa Pedicure Basics

Perfect prep is the foundation of any beautiful pedicure design.
Supplies Needed:
- Foot basin or tub
- Epsom salt or foot soak
- Pumice stone or foot file
- Cuticle pusher & nipper
- Toe separators
- Nail file & buffer
- Cuticle oil
- Rich foot cream
- Base coat, polish, top coat
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Soak (10 minutes)
- Fill basin with warm water
- Add Epsom salt (½ cup) or foot soak product
- Soak feet, allowing skin to soften
Step 2: Exfoliate (5 minutes)
- Use pumice stone on heels, balls of feet, any callused areas
- Gentle circular motions—don’t over-file
- Rinse feet and pat dry
Step 3: Nail Care (10 minutes)
- Trim toenails straight across (prevents ingrown nails)
- File edges smooth with gentle back-and-forth motion
- Push back cuticles gently with cuticle pusher
- Trim only dead hanging skin with nippers (never cut live cuticle)
Step 4: Moisturize (5 minutes)
- Apply rich foot cream, massaging calves, ankles, feet
- Pay attention to pressure points
- Wipe nails with alcohol pad to remove oil residue
Step 5: Polish Prep (2 minutes)
- Insert toe separators
- Ensure nails are completely clean and dry
- Apply thin layer of base coat
- Let dry 2 minutes
Now you’re ready for polish application!
Total time: 30 minutes before polish Frequency: Every 2-3 weeks for maintenance
Tutorial 2: Long-Lasting Gel Pedicure at Home
Why Gel for Pedicures?
- Lasts 3-6 weeks without chipping
- High-gloss finish that doesn’t dull
- Perfect for vacation or low-maintenance periods
- More durable for active lifestyles
Additional Supplies Needed:
- UV/LED nail lamp (48W minimum)
- Gel base coat
- Gel color polish
- Gel top coat (no-wipe or regular)
- 70% isopropyl alcohol
- Lint-free wipes
- Gel remover (for corrections)
Application Process:
Step 1: Prep (after basic pedicure)
- Lightly buff nail surface
- Wipe with alcohol to remove all oils
- Ensure nails are completely dry
Step 2: Gel Base (5 minutes)
- Apply thin layer of gel base coat
- Cap free edge (brush across tip)
- Cure under lamp:
- UV lamp: 2 minutes
- LED lamp: 30-60 seconds
- Don’t touch—will feel tacky (this is normal)
Step 3: Gel Color (15 minutes)
- First coat: Very thin, even layer
- Cap free edge
- Cure time (same as base)
- Second coat: Slightly thicker for opacity
- Cap edge again
- Cure
- Third coat if needed: For full coverage
- Cure
Step 4: Gel Top Coat (5 minutes)
- Apply generous glossy top coat
- Cap edges thoroughly (prevents peeling)
- Cure double the time of color coats
- If using no-wipe top coat: Done!
- If regular top coat: Wipe with alcohol to remove tacky layer
Step 5: Finish (5 minutes)
- Apply cuticle oil around nails
- Gentle massage to hydrate
- Remove toe separators
Total Time: 60-75 minutes including prep Longevity: 3-6 weeks Cost savings: $40-60 per salon visit vs. $80 kit that lasts months
Pro Tips:
- Thin coats cure better and last longer than thick
- Always cap the free edge—this is the #1 longevity secret
- Don’t skip base coat (protects nail from staining)
- Cure times matter—don’t rush!
Tutorial 3: Perfect Matte Finish Pedicure
Matte finishes feel modern and sophisticated but require specific technique.
Supplies:
- Regular pedicure supplies
- Base coat
- Your chosen fall color
- Matte top coat (Essie “Matte About You” or OPI “Matte Top Coat”)
- Quick-dry drops (optional but helpful)
Application Process:
Step 1: Standard Prep
- Complete basic pedicure (see Tutorial 1)
- Apply base coat, let dry completely
Step 2: Color Application (15 minutes)
- Apply first thin coat of color
- Let dry 5 minutes (critical for matte finish)
- Apply second coat
- Let dry 10 minutes (cannot rush this)
Step 3: Matte Top Coat (10 minutes)
- Ensure color is COMPLETELY dry (test gently)
- Apply matte top coat in thin, even strokes
- Critical: Don’t go back over areas—matte formulas drag and create streaks
- Work quickly but carefully
- One smooth pass per nail
Step 4: Drying (15 minutes)
- Do not touch or bump for 15 minutes minimum
- Matte formulas show every imperfection
- Use quick-dry drops if available
Total Time: 55 minutes Longevity: 2-3 weeks (matte shows wear faster than glossy)
Matte Finish Challenges & Solutions:
Problem: Streaky, uneven texture Solution: Let color dry longer before matte coat; apply thinner matte layer
Problem: Matte looking dull/dirty after a week Solution: Gently wipe with damp cloth, then reapply thin matte top coat layer
Problem: Accidental glossy spots Solution: Let dry completely, then carefully apply tiny amount of matte to spot only
Tutorial 4: Minimalist Accent Nail Design
Create one detailed toe amid simple elegance.
Design: Gold leaf accent on burgundy pedicure
Supplies:
- Base coat
- Burgundy polish (OPI “Malaga Wine”)
- Gold leaf foil sheets or transfer foil
- Foil adhesive or clear polish
- Glossy top coat
- Tweezers or orangewood stick
Step-by-Step:
Step 1: Base Application (20 minutes)
- Complete pedicure prep
- Apply base coat to all toes
- Apply two coats burgundy to all toes
- Let dry completely (15 minutes)
Step 2: Big Toe Accent Prep (5 minutes)
- On big toe only, apply thin layer of foil adhesive OR clear polish
- Let dry until tacky (not wet, not fully dry)
- Test: Should feel sticky but not transfer to finger
Step 3: Foil Application (10 minutes)
- Cut small piece of gold foil
- Using tweezers, place gently on tacky surface
- Press down with finger or silicone tool
- Peel away foil carefully
- Gold will remain on tacky areas
Alternative: Use pre-made gold leaf nail stickers for easier application
Step 4: Seal (5 minutes)
- Let foil adhesive dry completely (5 minutes)
- Apply glossy top coat to ALL toes
- Pay special attention to foil edges (seal thoroughly)
Total Time: 45-50 minutes Difficulty: Intermediate Longevity: 2-3 weeks
Design Variations:
- Silver foil on emerald green
- Rose gold foil on nude
- Geometric foil placement vs. random
- Foil on all toes but varying amounts
Best Products for Fall Pedicures
Top Pedicure Polish Brands
For Classic Fall Colors:

OPI Nail Lacquer
- Best for: Reliability, wide color range, smooth application
- Fall favorites:
- “Malaga Wine” (iconic burgundy)
- “You Don’t Know Jacques” (mocha brown)
- “Infinite Shine Olive for Green” (sophisticated olive)
- Price: $10-12
- Longevity: 5-7 days fingernails, 2-3 weeks toenails
DND Gel Polish Duo
- Best for: Matching regular + gel in one purchase
- Fall favorites:
- “Deep Burgundy” (rich wine)
- “Coral Reef” (sophisticated coral)
- “Emerald Forest” (jewel tone green)
- Price: $12-15 (includes regular + gel)
- Longevity: 2-3 weeks regular, 3-6 weeks gel
Essie Nail Polish
- Best for: Accessible, trendy colors, smooth formula
- Fall favorites:
- “Bahama Mama” (deep plum-burgundy)
- “Partner in Crime” (chocolate brown)
- “Chinchilly” (sophisticated gray)
- Price: $9-10
- Longevity: 5-7 days fingernails, 2-3 weeks toenails
Essential Pedicure Tools
Home Pedicure Must-Haves ($40-60 complete set):
1. Quality Nail Clippers
- Recommendation: Tweezerman Stainless Steel Toenail Clipper
- Price: $15-18
- Why: Sharp, precise, prevents splitting
2. Glass or Crystal Nail File
- Recommendation: Mont Bleu Crystal File
- Price: $12-15
- Why: Gentler than metal, prevents nail damage, lasts forever
3. Callus Remover
- Recommendation: Tweezerman Sole Smoother or Earth Therapeutics Pum ice Stone
- Price: $10-18
- Why: Keeps feet smooth, prevents buildup
4. Cuticle Pusher & Nipper Set
- Recommendation: Seki Edge or Tweezerman cuticle tools
- Price: $12-20
- Why: Precision tools prevent injury, create clean nail beds
5. Toe Separators
- Recommendation: Silicone reusable separators
- Price: $5-8
- Why: Prevents smudging, allows precise application
6. UV/LED Nail Lamp (for gel)
- Recommendation: Melodysusie 48W LED Lamp
- Price: $30-40
- Why: Proper wattage for complete curing, timer settings
Best Foot Care Products
Pre-Pedicure Soak:
Listerine + Vinegar Foot Soak (DIY)
- Recipe: ½ cup Listerine, ½ cup white vinegar, 2 cups warm water
- Benefits: Softens calluses, antimicrobial, budget-friendly
- Price: Under $5 for multiple uses
Ahava DeadSea Salt Natural Bath Salt
- Price: $20 for 32 oz
- Benefits: Mineral-rich, therapeutic, luxurious
- Best for: Spa-quality experience at home
Moisturizing:
O’Keeffe’s for Healthy Feet
- Price: $8-10
- Why: Intense moisture for severely dry feet, non-greasy
- Best for: Fall/winter dryness prevention
CeraVe SA Cream for Rough & Bumpy Skin
- Price: $15-18
- Why: Salicylic acid gently exfoliates, ceramides moisturize
- Best for: Persistent calluses, rough patches
Burt’s Bees Coconut Foot Cream
- Price: $10
- Why: Natural ingredients, pleasant scent, quick absorption
- Best for: Daily maintenance
Cuticle Care:
CND Solar Oil
- Price: $8-10
- Why: Penetrates deeply, conditions cuticles and nails
- Application: Daily for healthy nail growth
Burt’s Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream
- Price: $6
- Why: Natural ingredients, intensive overnight treatment
- Application: Before bed 2-3x weekly
Matte & Specialty Top Coats
Matte Finishes:

Essie Matte About You
- Price: $9
- Quality: Smooth, even matte finish
- Longevity: Reapply every 5-7 days for freshness
OPI Matte Top Coat
- Price: $10.50
- Quality: Professional-grade, velvety finish
- Coverage: Works over any brand
Sally Hansen Big Matte Top Coat
- Price: $7
- Quality: Budget-friendly, decent performance
- Note: Requires reapplication more frequently
Specialty Finishes:
Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
- Price: $10
- Purpose: Speed drying significantly (under 5 minutes)
- Best for: Impatient pedicurists, smooth glossy finish
Gelish Top Coat (Gel)
- Price: $18
- Purpose: High-gloss gel finish, lasts 3-6 weeks
- Requires: UV/LED lamp
Pedicure Maintenance & Care
Making Your Pedicure Last
Week 1: Post-Application
Days 1-2:
- Avoid water exposure for 2 hours minimum (regular polish)
- No hot baths, swimming, or intense exercise for 12 hours
- Sleep with socks first night to protect from sheets
Days 3-7:
- Apply cuticle oil once daily
- Moisturize feet with rich cream before bed
- Wear breathable socks to prevent moisture damage
Week 2-3: Mid-Life Care
Daily maintenance:
- Continue cuticle oil application
- Check for chips or lifting at edges
- Gently file any rough edges (don’t pick!)
Optional refresh:
- Apply thin layer of top coat to restore shine
- Clean around toes with brush and soap to remove buildup
- Massage feet to improve circulation
Week 4+: Decision Time
If polish still looks good:
- Continue maintenance routine
- Touch up tip chips with thin color layer
- Reapply top coat for extended wear
If showing significant wear:
- Remove polish properly (never peel!)
- Give nails 24-hour “breathing” period
- Moisturize intensively before next pedicure
Proper Polish Removal
For Regular Polish:
Supplies:
- 100% acetone or non-acetone remover
- Cotton balls or pads
- Aluminum foil (for stubborn polish)
- Cuticle oil
- Foot cream
Method:
Quick removal (5 minutes):
- Saturate cotton ball with remover
- Press onto nail, hold 10 seconds
- Wipe away with pressure
- Repeat if necessary
- Apply cuticle oil immediately
Foil method for stubborn polish (15 minutes):
- Soak cotton ball in acetone
- Place on nail
- Wrap toe in aluminum foil
- Wait 10 minutes
- Remove foil and wipe—polish should slide off
- Moisturize intensively
For Gel Polish:
Supplies:
- Acetone (must be acetone, not “acetone-free”)
- Cotton balls or pads
- Aluminum foil
- Cuticle pusher (metal)
- Cuticle oil & foot cream
Method (20-25 minutes):
- Lightly buff top coat shine (breaks seal)
- Soak cotton in acetone
- Place on nail, wrap with foil
- Wait 15-20 minutes (don’t peek!)
- Remove foil, test—gel should be lifted
- Gently scrape with cuticle pusher (never force!)
- If resistant, rewrap for 5 more minutes
- Remove all gel residue
- Apply cuticle oil and rich cream
NEVER:
- Peel or pick gel off (causes nail damage)
- Use metal tools aggressively
- Rush the process
Fall/Winter Foot Care
Combat Seasonal Dryness:
Weekly deep treatment:
- Exfoliate feet with sugar scrub or pumice
- Apply thick layer of foot cream or petroleum jelly
- Cover with cotton socks
- Leave overnight


