Caleb Foster
Gel manicures are a great way to ensure your nail polish stays put for a long time. However, sometimes life happens, and your gel polish may chip. The good news is that you can easily repair a chipped gel manicure at home without having to redo the entire nail. This can be done in a few simple steps: first, assess the chip to determine if it's fixable or if you need to start over. If it's fixable, file the chipped edge with a nail file or buffer to smooth it out, then apply a thin layer of polish in a similar colour, focusing on the chipped area. Once that layer has dried, apply a second layer from the cuticle to the nail tip. Finally, seal your polish with a top coat to ensure longevity and prevent further chipping.
How can I repair gel polish chip nails?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Repairing chipped gel polish | File the chipped edge with a buffer to break the topmost coat of the gel polish |
| Repairing a nail with a big chip, or one that's peeling or crackling | Start over with a fresh manicure |
| Repairing a small chip | Buff the edges of the chip or lightly tap nail polish remover around the edge of the chip to flatten it |
| Applying polish | Apply two layers of polish: one layer focused on the area of the chip, and a second layer after the first has dried, applied from cuticle to nail tip |
| Sealing the polish | Apply a top coat to seal the polish |
| Preventing chips | Wear gloves when washing up, cleaning, and opening boxes or cans; avoid super-hot water when washing hands and showering; apply hand cream after every hand wash; regularly massage cuticle oil over the gelled nail to encourage flexibility and prevent chipping |
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What You'll Learn
File the chipped edge with a nail file or buffer
When repairing gel polish on chipped nails, it's important to first assess the damage and determine whether you can touch up the polish or need to start over completely. If the chip is too big or the nail is peeling or crackling, it's best to remove the polish and start fresh.
If the chip is small and repairable, you can use a nail file or buffer to gently file down the edge of the polish, creating a smooth surface. This will help prevent the nail from chipping further and extend the longevity of your manicure. It is recommended to file in one direction, rather than sawing back and forth, to prevent splitting and weakening of the nail.
A 6-sided nail buffer is a versatile tool that can be used for this purpose, offering multiple surfaces with different grits for filing, refining, smoothing, and polishing. The first side, with a rough grit, can be used to shape the nails and file down the length. The second side, with a medium grit, is ideal for refining the edges and creating a smooth, well-shaped finish.
When using a nail file or buffer, it is important to work gently and carefully to avoid further damage to the nail. Additionally, remember that nail files and buffers can be cleaned and disinfected before and after use to prevent bacteria buildup and ensure smooth, healthy nails.
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Apply two layers of polish
Once you've decided to fix your chip, it's time to apply two layers of polish. But before that, you should file and buff the edges of the chip to flatten it and prevent a build-up of polish that could cause further chipping. You can use a nail file and buffer, or gently apply some nail polish remover to the chipped area.
Now, it's time to apply the polish. The first layer should focus on the chipped area, carefully covering the exposed nail. This layer should be thin and precise. Once it's dry, you can apply a second layer, this time painting from the cuticle to the nail tip. This second layer will blend in with the rest of the manicure, concealing the chip.
It's important to note that you should only attempt to fix a chip once or twice at most, as too many layers of polish can make the nail thick and prone to further chipping. If the chip is too big or the nail is peeling or crackling, it's best to start over with a fresh manicure.
Additionally, make sure you seal your polish with a top coat. This step is crucial, as it will protect your nail polish and ensure its longevity. A good top coat will not only make your manicure last longer but also enhance its colour, finish, and overall appearance.
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Seal the polish with a top coat
Sealing your gel polish with a top coat is a crucial step in preventing chips and prolonging the life of your manicure. It provides a protective barrier that not only enhances the colour and finish of your nails but also ensures their longevity.
When applying a top coat, it is essential to follow the correct procedure for maximum effectiveness. Start by assessing the condition of your nails. If the chip is too big or the polish is peeling or crackling, it may be best to start over with a fresh manicure. However, if the chip is small and isolated, you can proceed with a repair.
To prepare your nails for the top coat, use a nail file or buffer to gently buff the edges of the chipped area. This step helps create a smooth surface and ensures that the new layer of polish adheres well. You can also use a small amount of nail polish remover to flatten the chipped edge, making it less noticeable.
Once the nail is prepared, it's time to apply the top coat. Select a high-quality top coat designed for gel polish, such as Orly's Shining Armor Long Wear Top Coat, recommended by celebrity nail artist Sonya Belakhlef. Apply a thin, even layer of the top coat over the entire nail, including the tip, to seal in the colour and protect your nails from further chipping.
Allow the top coat to dry completely before resuming your regular activities. This step is crucial for preventing smudges or additional chips. While your nails are drying, avoid water and any activities that may put pressure on your nails, such as opening cans or boxes.
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Avoid super-hot water when washing hands
To repair a chip in your gel polish, you'll need a nail file, buffer, nail polish remover, polish in the same colour, and a top coat. Assess the damage and determine whether you can touch up the polish or need to start over. If you're touching up, buff the edges of the polish that's already on the nail or use a small amount of nail polish remover around the edge of the chip to flatten it. Then, apply two layers of polish: one focused on the chipped area, and a second layer applied from cuticle to nail tip. Finish with a top coat to seal the polish.
Now, onto hand-washing. It's best to avoid super-hot water when washing your hands, as this can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Instead, opt for warm water, which is more comfortable and safer for your skin. To prevent dryness, apply a rich, hydrating moisturiser several times daily, especially after washing your hands. Look for products containing ceramides and hyaluronic acid. You can also protect your hands by wearing gloves when necessary and choosing hypoallergenic products.
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Moisturise hands and nails with cuticle oil or hand cream
Moisturising your hands and nails is an essential step in repairing gel polish chip nails. Cuticle oil and hand cream are your best friends in this process.
Firstly, let's talk about cuticle oil. Your cuticle is the end of your skin that acts as a barrier to prevent bacteria and free radicals from entering your body and causing infections. Keeping your cuticles moisturised is crucial for healthy nail growth. Cuticle oils deliver vitamins and nourishment to your nails, and they can also help to soften and hydrate your cuticles. You can use olive oil as a cost-effective alternative, soaking your nails in it for 10 to 15 minutes daily. If you want to avoid the greasy feeling that cuticle oils can sometimes leave behind, you can opt for hyaluronic acid instead. It offers the same hydrating benefits without the oily residue.
Now, let's discuss hand cream. Applying a hand cream after using cuticle oil will help lock in moisture. Moisture loss is a common issue after gel nail damage, so it's important to address this by regularly using hand cream. Keep a bottle of hand cream by every sink in your house, and apply it after every hand wash. This will make a noticeable difference in the health of your hands and nails.
Additionally, it's important to remember to avoid picking at your nails and the skin around them while they heal. Picking off gel weakens your nails, and it will take time for them to grow back to their regular strength. Keep your nails short while they recover, and consider giving them some extra care, such as a hand or full-body massage.
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Frequently asked questions
First, file the chipped edge with a nail file or buffer to smooth the topmost coat of the gel polish. Then, apply two coats of a similar polish shade so that it blends in. Finish by sealing your nail polish with a top coat.
To prevent chipping, avoid using your nails as tools, and wear gloves when washing up, cleaning, or opening boxes or cans. Also, try to avoid super-hot water when washing your hands and showering.
If your gel polish is peeling, avoid the temptation to pick, peel, or bite the polish. Instead, hold off and take time to moisturize and protect your hands.
If your gel polish chips early, it could be because your nail technician applied the layers too thinly or did not prepare the edge of the nail properly. In this case, you may want to consider going to a different salon.
