Looking for an on-trend way to overhaul your 2012 beauty look?

Then turn your attention to your fingertips.

According to retail analysts, nail polish sales rose by 37 per cent last year and L'Oréal’s nail varnish sales were up 24 per cent last month – that’s double the increase in lipstick and lip gloss sales.

So if you fancy making the most of your talons, make sure they’re in tip-top condition.

Here are celebrity manicurist Jessica Hoffman’s tips for a five-minute manicure makeover.

Shape and buff

If your nails are very long, trim them to even lengths with scissors or nail clipper and file the edges smooth with a nail file or emery board. Always file your nails in one direction, from each side of the nail in towards the centre, to help prevent nails from splitting. If you are leaving your nails natural, buff them to give a healthy shine and remove any discolouration.

Groom

Gently push back your cuticles with a cotton-wrapped cuticle stick or cuticle pusher and carefully nip away any hangnails. Don't clip off excess cuticles unless you have to, as they will grow back thicker.

Prep

Apply a nail treatment or base coat to protect nails.

Seal

Finish with a top coat to seal your nails and add brilliant shine. Reapply every few days, to refresh the look.