Whether you are treat yourself to a manicure only for special events or are a regular visitor to your local nail salon, you want your nails to look good long after you leave the salon. A new manicure that chips or splits a few hours or days after your trip to the salon is frustrating, especially if you've gotten your nails done to look your best for a special event. The good news is that there are things you can do to protect your manicure by making the nail polish last longer.

Salons are full of dust that can wreck your polish in no time. Once your nails are filed and shaped, wash them in warm water with antibacterial soap. Remove all dust and debris so your nails are a clean surface. Then gently pat them dry with a soft cloth.

Pay attention and make sure your manicurist follows some simple practices so you can enjoy long lasting nail polish. Your manicurist should choose a clear base coat that is both a base coat and a nail treatment in one.

Once the clear base coat is dry and it is time to apply the color, it should always be put on in thin coats. The very first coat of any color should be almost translucent. The manicurist should also let it dry for a minute or two before applying another thin coat of polish. For a polished look, use three or four thin coats of polish and allow each to dry in between applications. This layered effect will create a better seal and cut down on any air bubbles that appear when the polish is too thick. Several coats also give the color depth and sheen.

Ask to have the tip of each nail covered with polish. Continue each coat over the tip so that some polish coats the underside of the tip. Repeat this with each coat of polish unless the polish becomes too thick under your nail. This wrap over effect will prevent chipping whenever your nail comes in contact with computer keys, the buttons on your cell phone or the many other hard surfaces that can chip your nails.

Once the color of the last coat has started to dry, you should apply a clear topcoat. This topcoat is a protective layer that helps to prevent chipping and dents, so make sure you apply a full layer.

If you are like most people, then your manicure is just one of your many errands for the day. The fastest way to ruin the manicure or pedicure is to start using your hands and touching things before the nails are fully dry. It takes from thirty minutes to an hour for nail polish to dry fully, especially with the layers you applied. Don't rush this step. Instead make the manicure the last of your errands or take a walk afterwards where you don't have to touch anything or drive while the nails dry. Consider sitting back and taking a break while your nails dry--manicures are an indulgence to be enjoyed after all.