Isla Bennett
Gel nail polish can last for weeks without chipping or lifting if you prepare your nails properly. The key to a long-lasting gel manicure is to ensure your nails are well-prepped, with cuticles pushed back or removed, and buffed to create a rough surface for the gel polish to adhere to. After application, seal in the gel polish by capping the free edge and applying a no-wipe top coat. To maintain your manicure, use cuticle oil and hand cream daily, and avoid very hot water for a few hours after application. With the right products and techniques, your gel nails can look pristine for up to two weeks or longer.
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What You'll Learn
Moisturise your nails and cuticles regularly
Moisturising your nails and cuticles is essential to maintaining gel nails. It is recommended to use a quality cuticle oil and hand cream regularly, and doing so daily can prevent chips and lifting. Coconut oil is a classic hydrating beauty staple that can be used to trap water in your skin. Olive & June's Cuticle Serum is another award-winning product that can be used to deliver moisture.
When applying lotion or oil, it is important to avoid the nail surface and only apply it to the surrounding skin and cuticle area. This will help to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated and prevent them from becoming brittle. In addition to moisturising, it is also important to keep your nails dry and clean, as moisture and dirt can weaken the gel.
Gloves can be worn when washing dishes or cleaning to protect your nails from water and chemicals, which can also cause lifting and weaken the gel's bond to your nail. It is also important to avoid harsh chemicals, as these can damage the shine of your gel nails. By following these steps, you can help to keep your gel nails looking fresh and lasting long.
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Avoid water and harsh chemicals
Water and harsh chemicals are the arch-nemeses of gel nails. So, when washing dishes, gardening, or cleaning, wear gloves to protect your nails from water and chemicals in cleaning products. Avoid using hand sanitiser too much, as it dries out your nails and can cause lifting. Minimise exposure to excessive heat, like hot water in showers, as it can weaken the gel's bond to your nail.
When prepping your nails, cleanse and dehydrate them with alcohol to remove all debris and oils. This helps the gel adhere better. However, avoid over-saturating your nails with acetone during gel removal, as it can cause skin irritation and dryness.
Additionally, avoid using products containing solvent oils, often found in sun tan oils and insect repellents, as they can cause significant damage to the colour of your gel nails.
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Don't use nails as tools
When you get gel nails, you want them to last as long as possible. After all, they can be expensive and time-consuming to maintain. So, how do you keep them looking sharp and lasting long?
First off, don't use your nails as tools. It can be tempting to use your nails for tasks like opening cans or prying things open, but this can damage your gel nails and cause them to chip or peel. Gel nails are strong and less prone to damage, but they are not indestructible. Treat your nails like jewels, not tools.
In addition to not using them as tools, there are a few other things you should avoid doing with your gel nails. Avoid picking at or peeling your gel nails, as this can cause damage and make your nails dry and brittle. Keep your nails away from harsh chemicals and excessive heat, as these can also weaken the gel's bond to your nail.
Instead of using your nails as tools, invest in some good-quality gloves to protect your nails when doing household chores or cleaning. This will keep your nails shiny and avoid drying out the nail bed. You should also keep your nails and cuticles moisturized to prevent them from becoming brittle. Use a quality cuticle oil and hand cream to keep your nails hydrated and flexible.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your gel nails looking fresh and lasting long. So, resist the urge to use your nails as tools and treat them with the care they deserve!
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Apply a thin layer of clear polish after a week
To keep your gel nails in tip-top shape, it's important to give them some extra TLC after about a week. By this time, your nails may have grown out a little, and you might notice some chipping or lifting around the edges. So, it's a good idea to apply a thin layer of clear polish to give them a fresh, glossy look and extend the lifespan of your manicure.
Start by gently buffing the edges of your nails with a fine-grit nail buffer. This will smooth out any minor chips or imperfections and create a better surface for the new polish to adhere to. Be careful not to over-buff, especially at the tips, as this can lead to thinning and cause lifting. After buffing, wipe your nails with a lint-free pad soaked in alcohol to cleanse and dehydrate them. This step is crucial because it ensures that your nails are free of any oils or debris that might interfere with the adhesion of the new polish.
Now you're ready to apply the clear polish. Choose a good-quality top coat designed for gel nails, as this will provide the best protection and shine. Using a thin brush, carefully apply the top coat to each nail, being mindful to avoid getting it on your skin and cuticles. Start by sealing the tips of your nails, running the brush along the top edge first, and then cover the entire nail.
If you're using a gel top coat, cure your nails under a UV or LED lamp according to the manufacturer's instructions. LED lamps typically take around 30 seconds to cure, while UV lamps may take up to 130 seconds. Remember to change the UV bulbs regularly to maintain optimal light intensity and avoid dull colours and faster chipping. Alternatively, if you're using regular clear nail polish, simply let it air dry.
Reapply the top coat every few days to prevent chipping and keep your gel manicure looking fresh and fabulous!
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Get gel nails removed by a professional
Getting gel nails removed by a professional is always the best option. While there are methods to remove gel nails at home, a professional nail technician will be able to remove the gel nails without causing any damage to your natural nails.
A nail technician will be able to assess the health of your nails and advise on the best course of action for removal. They will also be able to spot any early signs of trouble, such as infections or damage, and ensure your nails stay healthy. Additionally, they can advise on proper removal techniques to avoid any potential damage to your nails.
If you are unable to visit a salon to have your gel nails removed, there are a few methods you can try at home. One popular method is to use acetone to remove the gel nail polish. This involves soaking cotton balls in acetone, placing them on your nails, and wrapping them in plastic food wrap or aluminum foil to keep them in place. Leave the acetone to soak for 15-20 minutes before gently pushing off the softened gel with a cuticle pusher or orangewood stick. It is important to note that acetone can irritate and damage your skin, so it is recommended to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to your cuticles and the surrounding skin before using this method.
Another method for removing gel nails at home is to file off the gel nail polish. This involves using a coarse nail file to file down the gel topcoat layer until it is no longer shiny and smooth. However, it is important to be gentle and avoid using a back-and-forth motion to prevent damage to your nails.
After removing your gel nails, it is important to rehydrate your nails with cuticle oil and a rich hand cream to keep them healthy and moisturized.
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Frequently asked questions
The longevity of your gel polish starts with proper nail preparation. Before applying any polish, make sure your nails are clean, dry, and free from oils or residue. File and shape your nails, lightly buff the surface, and push back cuticles.
You can use a nail primer to dehydrate the nail plate, promoting better adhesion and preventing premature chipping or peeling. You can also cleanse your nails with acetone or an alcohol cleanser to remove dirt, oils, and dust.
Avoid applying gel polish too thickly as this can lead to uneven curing, bubbling, and faster chipping. Instead, apply thin, even coats, and cure each layer under a UV or LED lamp. Make sure to seal the tips of your nails to prevent the polish from lifting.
Avoid exposing your nails to extreme heat, such as saunas, hot tubs, or heat styling tools, as this can cause gel polish to soften and peel. Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes to avoid exposing your nails to too much water.
