Ava Monroe
Gel manicures are a great way to ensure long-lasting, glossy nails. However, they can be prone to chipping and lifting. To make gel nails last longer, preparation is key. Nails should be clean, dry, and free from oils or residue. It is also important to use a thin layer of base coat and gel polish, and to cure nails for the correct amount of time under a UV or LED lamp. After application, it is recommended to avoid activities that cause stress on the edges of the nail, such as using your nails as tools. With the right preparation and aftercare, gel nails can last for up to 4 weeks.
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What You'll Learn
Proper nail preparation
Firstly, file and shape your nails. Evenly shaped nails are less likely to chip or break. It is recommended to keep them short, as long nails are more susceptible to bending and cracking.
Next, lightly buff the surface of your nails to help the gel polish adhere better. Be careful not to over-buff, as this can cause the tips to become too thin, leading to lifting. Use a 180-grit nail buffer to create a textured surface for the gel polish to cling to. After buffing, remove any nail dust with a dust brush or a nail cleanser to ensure optimal adhesion.
Then, push back your cuticles to prevent the polish from lifting at the edges. You can use a cuticle pusher, cuticle clippers, an e-file, or a nail drill to remove dead skin and cuticles, which are primary causes of gel manicure lifting.
Additionally, always cleanse and dehydrate your nails with alcohol to remove any debris and oils. If you have a combination or oily skin type, pay extra attention to dehydrating your nails, as oil is the worst enemy of gel polish and will cause it to lift.
Finally, if you wash your hands before the manicure, make sure your nails are thoroughly dried. If your nail beds retain water, the moisture will cause the gel polish to lift more quickly.
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Use a top coat
Using a top coat is an essential step in achieving long-lasting gel nails. It is particularly important for locking in your gel polish and providing a beautiful glossy finish. A top coat acts as a hard protective layer, shielding your manicure from chips and cracks and extending the life of your manicure.
When choosing a top coat, opt for one that is specifically designed for gel polishes, such as the Naio Nails Top Coat. This will ensure that your nails have a high-shine finish and provide an extra layer of protection against daily wear and tear.
To apply the top coat, use thin, even coats, and cure each layer under a UV or LED lamp before moving on to the next. Remember that thick layers can lead to uneven curing, bubbling, and faster chipping.
Additionally, sealing the tips of your nails (also known as "capping") is crucial for preventing the polish from lifting. As you apply each layer of topcoat, lightly swipe the brush across the free edge of your nails. This technique helps lock in the polish and further reduces the likelihood of chips.
By following these steps and using a top coat, you can significantly extend the life of your gel nails and maintain their glossy, flawless appearance.
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Avoid water and oil
Water and oil are the enemies of long-lasting gel manicures. Water can cause gel polish to lift and chip, so it's important to avoid getting your nails wet during the application process and in the hours immediately after. Make sure your nails are thoroughly dry before applying gel polish, as any moisture on the nail bed will cause the gel to lift more quickly. Avoid doing your nails straight after a shower, as your nails will have expanded from the water, which can lead to unwanted lifting or bubbling.
If you're getting a manicure in a salon, ask for a dry manicure, as water and gel don't mix. Washing your hands between steps can cause lifting and chipping, as it reintroduces moisture to your nails.
Oil can also cause gel polish to lift, so it's important to avoid heavy creams and oils in the hours leading up to your manicure. If you have naturally oily skin, you'll need to pay extra attention to dehydrating your nails. Use remover (acetone) instead of cleanser, and always use a primer just before application.
To keep your nails healthy and flexible, apply cuticle oil and hand cream daily, but make sure to avoid getting oil on the nail plate, as this will cause the gel to lift off. Wear gloves when cleaning or doing the dishes to avoid exposing your nails to too much water.
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Cure nails for long enough
Curing your nails for the right amount of time is crucial to achieving long-lasting gel nails. The curing time will depend on the specific gel you are using, as well as the type of lamp you are using. UV and LED lamps, for example, have different curing times. Always follow the curing times written on each product—if in doubt, cure for longer.
If you are using a UV or LED lamp, make sure it is strong enough to cure a full gel manicure. A lamp with a mirrored base is recommended, as the light reflects and cures the nails better than a lamp without a base. For some products, you should use a nail lamp that is 48W (min.) and has a wavelength of 360-405nm. If your lamp is too weak, the gel will not harden properly, and you may experience issues such as the product lifting from the nail and wet spots.
If you are getting your nails done at a salon, make sure to tell them if you are having chipping issues. Salon work often involves rushing through customers, so they may not be curing your nails for long enough. Gels can cure longer if they are being filed off, so don't be afraid to suggest this if you think it will help.
Remember that practice is key—the more you do your nails, the better your technique will become over time.
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Don't use nails as tools
When it comes to making Gelish nails last longer, one crucial piece of advice is to avoid using your nails as tools. This means refraining from activities that can put stress on your nails or their edges. Instead of using your nails for tasks such as opening boxes or cans, opt for the appropriate tools like a box cutter or can opener. This simple practice can significantly extend the lifespan of your Gelish manicure.
Using your nails as tools can exert unnecessary force on them, leading to undesirable consequences such as chipping and cracking. Gel polish, even when properly cured, is not invincible to the physical forces exerted when using nails as tools. By avoiding this habit, you can maintain the integrity of your manicure and prevent unsightly chips and cracks.
Additionally, it's important to be mindful of the potential for moisture exposure when using your nails as tools. For instance, when using your nails for tasks like opening a can, there is a risk of exposing them to moisture from the contents of the can. As gel and moisture don't mix well, this exposure can cause issues with your manicure, leading to lifting and chipping.
Another reason to avoid using your nails as tools is to maintain the health of your natural nails. Your nails serve as a protective layer for the sensitive skin and tissue underneath. When you use your nails as tools, you risk damaging this protective barrier, which can lead to pain and potential infection.
Lastly, by refraining from using your nails as tools, you can prolong the time between manicures. This not only saves you money but also reduces the frequency of nail treatments, promoting healthier nail growth in the long run. So, the next time you're tempted to use your nails for tasks beyond their intended purpose, remember the importance of treating them with care to maintain their beauty and longevity.
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Frequently asked questions
Proper nail preparation is key to making gelish nails last longer.
Before applying gelish polish, ensure your nails are clean, dry, and free from oils or residue. File and shape your nails, then lightly buff the surface to help the gel polish adhere better. Push back your cuticles to prevent the polish from lifting at the edges.
Use thin, even coats of polish and cure each layer under a UV or LED lamp before moving on to the next. Apply a strong, durable top coat to lock in your gel polish and provide an extra layer of protection.
Always follow the curing times written on each product. If in doubt, cure for longer. Check that you are using a lamp that is strong enough to cure a full gel manicure.
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. Avoid using your nails as tools, and wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes to avoid exposing them to too much water.
