Noah Sinclair
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting long-lasting, polished nails. However, the removal process can cause damage, leaving nails brittle and weak. To prevent this, it is important to take care of your nails both before and after your manicure. This includes using hand creams with SPF, applying cuticle serums, and avoiding picking or peeling the gel polish. Additionally, builder gels can provide extra strength and protection to your nails, helping them grow and preventing breakage. With the right products and care routine, you can enjoy the benefits of gel nails without compromising the health of your natural nails.
How to prevent gel nails from breaking
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use a base gel | The NT x Kokoist base gel is recommended |
| Use a builder gel | The Kokoist builder gel is recommended |
| Use a top coat | The Kokoist Ultra Glossy Non-Wipe Top Coat is recommended |
| Use a nail-strengthening polish | |
| Use a gel-like treatment for gel and acrylic-damaged nails | The ZOYA Naked Manicure Gelie Cure System is recommended |
| Use a breathable nail polish | To prevent fungal infections |
| Use a nail polish with beneficial ingredients | Such as vitamin E or C |
| Use a nail polish to deter nail biting | |
| Use a nail polish to prevent nail staining | |
| Use a nail polish to prevent nail peeling | |
| Use an SPF-infused hand cream | The Supergoop! Forever Young Hand Cream With Sea Buckthorn SPF 40 is recommended |
| Use a cuticle serum | The Olive & June's Cuticle Serum is recommended |
| Do not pick and peel the gel |
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What You'll Learn
Use builder gel to protect nails and allow natural growth
If you're looking for a way to protect your nails and allow them to grow naturally, builder gel is a great option. It is a type of hard gel that adds a durable layer to your nails, strengthening and lengthening them while also protecting them from damage. Unlike traditional gel nail polish, which tends to weaken nails and only lasts about two weeks, builder gel is more long-lasting and helps your nails grow stronger over time.
Builder gel can be applied to natural nails to create a non-chip overlay, or it can be used with nail tips to create extensions. It is thicker than regular gel polish base coats and is applied with small, horizontal strokes to ensure it covers the entire nail. The high self-levelling properties of builder gel ensure a smooth foundation layer. It is also flexible, so it moves with your natural nail and is less likely to crack. This makes it a great option for those who struggle with nail-biting, as it's too rigid to bite through and can be used as a deterrent.
When choosing a builder gel, it's important to consider the strength of your natural nails. If your nails are extremely thin or damaged, it's best to avoid builder gel until they have healed, as it can cause additional stress or infection. However, if you have minor damage, such as peeling or mild ridges, builder gel can be safely applied to protect and add structure to your nails. Clear, nude, and light pink are the most common shades, but builder gel also comes in various colours and finishes.
To apply builder gel, start by cleaning, shaping, and buffing your nails to help the base coat adhere. It's also important to clean your cuticles before application. Gently apply a bead of builder gel to the nail, building up and strengthening the apex of your nail (the highest point on your nail bed). Most builder gels require the use of a primer or base coat, but some can be applied directly to the nail for a speedier process. Once applied, cure the gel with a UV or LED nail lamp, following the instructions for your chosen brand. With proper care, your builder gel manicure can last up to three weeks or more.
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Avoid acetone to prevent drying
Preventing nail breakage doesn't have a one-size-fits-all solution, but there are ways to minimize the risk. One way to prevent gel nails from breaking is to avoid the use of acetone, a common ingredient in nail polish removers, as it can cause drying and leave your nails feeling brittle.
Acetone is a powerful solvent that can effectively remove nail polish, but it can also strip your nails of their natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness and brittleness. This is especially true if you have naturally weak nails or if your nails are already dry and damaged. When the nails become dry, they become more prone to breaking, splitting, and peeling.
To avoid the drying effects of acetone, you can opt for acetone-free nail polish removers, which tend to be gentler on the nails and surrounding skin. These alternatives often contain hydrating and nourishing ingredients, such as essential oils, vitamins, and emollients, that help condition and moisturize your nails while removing polish. Using a remover with these ingredients can help prevent your nails from becoming dry and brittle, thus reducing the likelihood of breakage.
Additionally, you can take preventative measures by maintaining a consistent nail care routine. This includes regularly applying a nourishing cuticle oil or nail strengthener to promote nail health and prevent dryness. Keeping your nails moisturized will help maintain their flexibility and reduce the chances of breakage.
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Use hand cream with SPF to protect from UV lights
While gel manicures can help prevent nail breakage by providing extra strength and protection, the UV lamps used to cure the polish can emit high volumes of ultraviolet radiation in a short space of time, causing long-term damage to the skin such as premature ageing, wrinkles, and even skin cancer.
To protect your hands from UV lights during a gel manicure, it is recommended to use a hand cream with SPF (Sun Protection Factor). SPF is known to have anti-aging benefits, and the thick skin on your hands shows signs of age faster than skin elsewhere on the body, so using a hand cream with SPF can help minimize those early signs of ageing.
There are various hand creams with SPF available in the market, including options from brands like Unsun, Gold Bond, Supergoop!, Sun Bum, Lancôme, RéVive, and Shiseido. For example, Supergoop Forever Young Hand Cream has SPF 40 and is described as having a subtle sassafras, root-beerish scent. If you prefer unscented products, Ever Light Beam Hand Cream is an SPF 18 option that is perfect for those who dislike fragrances.
It is recommended to apply hand cream with SPF at least 15 minutes before your salon appointment to allow the product to absorb into the skin. Additionally, look for hand creams with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, which can help repair the skin while protecting it from further sun damage.
By taking this simple step of using hand cream with SPF, you can protect your hands from the harmful effects of UV lights during gel manicures and maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin.
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Apply nail-strengthening polish
If you're looking to strengthen your nails and prevent breakage, applying nail-strengthening polish can be a great solution. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this option:
First and foremost, it is essential to understand that not all nail polishes are created equal. When it comes to nail-strengthening polishes, opt for reputable brands that are known for their commitment to nail health. These brands often invest in research and development to create polishes that not only make your nails look good but also promote their overall health. For instance, some brands offer nail-strengthening polishes infused with vitamins like vitamin E or C, which are known to promote healthy nail growth.
When choosing a nail-strengthening polish, it is crucial to select one that aligns with the specific issues your nails are facing. For instance, if your nails are brittle and prone to breaking, opt for a polish designed specifically for brittle nails. This targeted approach ensures that the polish contains the necessary ingredients to address your unique concerns effectively.
The application process of nail-strengthening polish is of utmost importance. Proper application ensures the polish adheres well to your nails and provides the desired strength. Consider enrolling in a builder gel application course or seeking advice from a professional nail technician to master the application technique. This investment in knowledge will pay dividends in the long run, as you'll be able to confidently apply the polish yourself and maintain strong, healthy nails.
Additionally, it is worth noting that nail-strengthening polish often serves as the base coat for your gel manicure. This base coat acts as a protective layer, providing extra layers of reinforcement to your natural nails. By forming a sturdy foundation, the nail-strengthening polish helps prevent breakage and allows your nails to grow longer and stronger.
Finally, remember that nail health goes beyond the polish you choose. Proper nail care routines, including cuticle care and regular manicures, are essential for maintaining nail health. Additionally, consider your diet and overall nutrition, as they play a significant role in the health and strength of your nails. By adopting a holistic approach to nail care, you'll be well on your way to achieving and maintaining strong, beautiful nails.
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Use a base coat to prevent staining
Using a base coat is an important step in preventing staining and promoting healthy nail growth. While gel polish can protect your nails from staining, applying a base coat ensures an extra layer of protection. This is especially important if you are using dark or vibrant gel colours that are more likely to stain your nails.
Base coats are designed to adhere to your nails and create a smooth surface for the gel polish to be applied. By creating this barrier, the base coat prevents the gel polish from soaking into your nails, which can cause staining. Additionally, a base coat can help the gel polish last longer and adhere better to your nails.
When choosing a base coat, opt for a reputable brand that offers strengthening and protective benefits. Some base coats are specifically formulated to address nail damage and promote healthy nail growth. For example, the ZOYA Naked Manicure Gelie Cure System is a gel-like treatment designed for gel and acrylic-damaged nails. It works in conjunction with a rescue serum and repair base to nourish and protect your nails.
If you're looking for an all-in-one product, the Kokoist x Nail Thoughts Base Gels are a great option. This product combines a base gel, a builder gel, and a colour option if you choose a tinted version. By using this product, you can simplify your nail care routine while still achieving strong and healthy nails.
In addition to using a base coat, it's important to maintain a consistent nail care routine. Proper nail care will help ensure your nails stay healthy and strong, reducing the risk of breakage and staining. This includes regular manicures, cuticle care, and the use of hand creams to keep your hands and nails moisturized.
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Frequently asked questions
You can prevent your gel nails from breaking by using a builder gel, which adds extra layers of reinforcement to your natural nails. This makes them less prone to breakage.
Some good products to prevent gel nails from breaking include the Kokoist builder gels and the NT Clear Builder Base.
It is important to apply gel nail polish properly, as improper application can cause the gel to lift and chip. You should also avoid using acetone to remove gel nail polish, as it is extremely drying and can cause your nails to peel.
In addition to using builder gels and proper application techniques, you can also use specific nail polishes designed for nail biters, as these have an unpleasant taste that deters nail-biting. You can also use nail-strengthening polishes that are designed to target the specific type of damage your nails are experiencing.
