The present invention is directed to a method of making up nails, the method involving: a) applying onto the nails a first composition containing: i) at least one color precursor, ii) at least one film former, iii) at least one volatile solvent, iv) optionally, at least one buffer, and v) optionally, at least one colorant; (b) applying a second composition over top of at least a portion of the first composition, the second composition containing at least one color activator; and (c) optionally, applying a third composition over top of at least a portion of the second composition, the third composition containing at least one color deactivator.