From Buffers to Top Coats, here are 5 important products that completely change the manicure game.

• Quo by Orly’s Buffer, $6, shoppersdrugmart.com
When my nails and cuticles need an over-haul, I reach straight for my buffer. It’s easy to handle and has a perfect finish for buffing away cuticles too. On set this is a must in my kit for models that haven’t had time to tend to their manis. It significantly reduces the need for cuticle nippers.
• Dermalogica Multivitamin Hand and Nail Treatment, $36, dermalogica.ca
My favourite hand cream leaves my hands feeling young and supple, and a little goes a long way. Its scent-free formulation consists of botanicals and vitamins so it helps to strengthen nails and prevent them from peeling and splitting.
• Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel Top Coat, $10, ca.sallyhansen.com
There’s nothing like a super shine, high gloss topcoat that offers longevity, and this is my fave! The brush holds enough polish that one dip into the bottle will suffice for one nail application, and it works well to refresh a dull gel polish manicure.
• Quo by Orly Matte Topcoat, $10, shoppersdrugmart.com
I’m all about that matte finish. I love that it’s cool and edgy, so my kit is never without this. And in a pinch, I have used it on model nails that happen to have an uneven nail plate with ridges; it helps create a smooth foundation for polish application.
• Kiss Maximum Speed Nail Glue, $4, well.ca
I consider this a must have for everyone woman. I keep one in my kit and one in my purse at all times. There’s nothing worse than snagging your nail when you’re on the go! It comes out in little wee drops so it’s easy to control and manage when applying to a broken nail.

Melissa Forrest
Nail Artist/Spokesperson
Shoppers Drug Mart
Instagram:@ Manimelissa