Caleb Foster
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting long-lasting, chip-free nails. However, the removal process can leave nails dry, brittle, thin and prone to breakage. So, how can you restore your nails to their former glory? Firstly, it's important to ensure the gel is removed properly, as improper removal can cause damage to the topmost layer of the nail. After removal, it's recommended to trim nails short and apply a nail strengthener to prevent further breakage. Buffing nails can also help to smooth out any ridges and uneven edges. To combat dryness, it's crucial to moisturise nails and the surrounding skin regularly, and cuticle oils can help to hydrate and protect. With the right aftercare, your nails will be healthy and strong again in no time!
How to Restore Gel Nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Remove gels | Have the gels removed at a salon or do it yourself by first breaking the gel layer with a nail file, then applying pure acetone with a cotton ball and securing with foil |
| Trim nails | Keep nails short to prevent breakage/splitting |
| File nails | Use a glass nail file to smooth and seal the edges, reducing susceptibility to splits and breakages |
| Buff nails | Buff nails to smooth out ridges and other uneven edges |
| Moisturise nails | Apply a nail moisturiser that contains peptide daily to nails and the skin around them |
| Soak nails | Soak nails in warm milk once a week for five minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly |
| Apply cuticle oil | Massage cuticle oil into the cuticle for a minute, then follow with a hand cream |
| Take supplements | Take biotin supplements to aid nail growth |
| Use nail hardener | Apply a nail hardener or nail strengthener to act as a protective layer and prevent over-filing |
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What You'll Learn
Use a nail strengthener
Using a nail strengthener is a great way to restore your nails after removing gel manicures. Gel manicures can leave your nails thinner and more brittle, so it's important to take steps to strengthen and nourish them.
One option is to use a nail strengthener with keratin, a natural protein that forms the building blocks of nails. Keratin treatments can help strengthen nails and prevent them from peeling, splitting, or breaking. You can find keratin-enriched nail strengtheners, such as Lights Lacquer Magic Strengthener, which can be applied once a week and provides a high-shine finish. Another option is to use a nail strengthener with wheat protein, such as ORLY Nailtrition Nail Growth Treatment, which can help to strengthen and support nail growth while also masking imperfections with a subtle shimmery finish.
It is recommended to apply a nail strengthener daily for about a week, and then remove it and start again. After applying the nail strengthener, you can follow up with a cuticle oil and a heavy-duty hand cream to lock in moisture. Cuticle oils deliver vitamins and nourishment, while hand cream will help to keep your hands and nails hydrated.
In addition to using a nail strengthener, you can also try other methods to restore your nails. This includes keeping your nails short, eating a healthy diet with sufficient protein, biotin, and calcium, and using a glass nail file to smooth and seal the edges of your nails, reducing their susceptibility to splits and breakages.
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Moisturise and use cuticle oil
After a gel manicure, your nails may be stripped of their natural moisture, leaving them dry, brittle, thin, and prone to splitting. To restore your nails to their former glory, it's important to prioritise hydration and nourishment. This is where moisturising and using cuticle oil come in.
Moisturise
First things first: moisturise your nails. You can purchase a nail moisturiser from a beauty supply store or department store. Look for a fortifying nail and cuticle cream that contains peptide, which hydrates and strengthens nails. Alternatively, you can use a regular hand lotion for all-over moisture. Apply the moisturiser to your nails and the skin around them. If you're washing your hands, be sure to moisturise afterwards, as washing can dry out your nails.
Cuticle Oil
Cuticle oil is a must-have in your gel nail arsenal. It's designed to keep your cuticles and the skin around your nails hydrated, nourished, and moisturised, thus protecting them from drying out or cracking. Cuticle oil delivers vitamins and nourishment to your nails and cuticles, and it can help to stimulate nail growth and promote stronger nails. When applying cuticle oil, use a dropper to place a few drops of oil onto your nail and gently massage it into the nail and the surrounding skin. You can also apply cuticle oil right out of the shower while your skin is still damp to encourage deeper absorption.
It's important to note that you shouldn't apply cuticle oil directly before a gel manicure, as this can affect the adherence of the gel polish, causing it to lift. However, after removing gel polish, be sure to nourish your nails with oil.
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Buff nails
Buffing your nails is a common practice in nail salons and among beauty enthusiasts. It is a crucial step in achieving both aesthetic and health objectives for your nails.
Buffing your nails can help smooth out any ridges or rough patches on your nails, giving them a polished and refined look. It is a non-invasive way to address issues and maintain nail health. It is also an excellent base for nail polish or any other nail art. The smoother the surface, the better the application and the longer the polish will last.
To buff your nails, hold the buffing side parallel to your nail and stroke it across each nail in an X shape. Ensure that each stroke goes only downwards or upwards. Over-buffing can damage your nails, so each nail only needs 6-8 strokes. Repeat this process for each nail, then repeat with the finer-grit side to polish them. Each nail only needs 4-6 strokes for polishing.
Buffing also promotes blood circulation, which can strengthen nails and help identify potential nail health issues. As you buff and pay attention to your nails, you become more aware of any changes or abnormalities, such as discolouration or unusual spots.
It is important to remember to be gentle with your nails when buffing. Avoid creating heat from friction, and don't press too hard on your nail matrix. Stick to buffing your nails around once a month.
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Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet is key to restoring your nails after a gel manicure. Here are some tips to help you eat healthily and promote nail strength:
Firstly, ensure you are eating a balanced diet with a wide range of foods to get all the necessary nutrients. Focus on including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and protein in your meals. Aim for low-fat or fat-free dairy options, such as semi-skimmed milk, lactose-free milk, or fortified soy beverages. When it comes to protein, opt for seafood, lean meats, poultry, eggs, legumes, soy products, nuts, and seeds. These foods will provide you with essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which are crucial for nail health.
In addition to including these food groups, it's important to pay attention to the quality and type of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars in your diet. Choose complex carbohydrates like whole grains, vegetables (except potatoes), fruits, and beans, as they are healthier sources of carbohydrates. Opt for healthy unsaturated fats found in foods like avocados, vegetable oils (such as olive oil), oily fish, and nuts. These healthy fats can help lower your risk of chronic diseases and promote overall health.
At the same time, reduce your intake of saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars. Limit your consumption of processed and prepackaged foods, as they tend to be high in sodium and added sugars, which can negatively impact your health. Instead, opt for unprocessed foods and use herbs, spices, and citrus juices to add flavor to your meals.
Remember, eating a healthy diet is not just beneficial for your nail health but also for your overall well-being. It can help maintain a healthy weight, lower your risk of chronic diseases, and promote optimal health.
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Use a glass nail file
Glass nail files are a great way to restore your nails after gel manicures, which can leave your nails dry, brittle, thin and prone to splitting. Glass nail files are made from tempered glass, which makes them both durable and long-lasting. They are gentler on nails than metal files and emery boards, and seal the keratin layers at the edge of the nail together, preventing peeling and chipping.
To use a glass nail file, start by ensuring your nails are clean and free of any polish or dirt. You can use a nail polish remover to ensure your nails are completely clean. Before filing, make sure your nails are completely dry, as wet nails are more prone to tearing or peeling. If your nails are long and you want to reduce the length, clip them to slightly longer than your desired length, using sharp, clean nail clippers.
Next, decide on the shape you want for your nails. You could choose square, round, or almond-shaped nails. The shape of your cuticles can be a good guide for deciding on the shape of your nails. Once you've decided on the shape, begin filing from the outside edge towards the centre of the nail, moving in one direction. Avoid using sawing gestures when filing, and instead use gentle swipes in a single direction.
Glass nail files are an inexpensive and sustainable way to restore your nails after gel manicures. They are also versatile and can be used on both natural and artificial nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel manicures can leave your nails dry, thin, and brittle. To restore your nails, you can apply a nail strengthener, followed by cuticle oil and a hand cream. You can also soak your nails in warm milk or olive oil to help restore moisture.
To prevent damage, it is recommended that you do not peel off the gel nail polish. Instead, you should first break the gel layer with a nail file, then apply acetone to your nails using a cotton ball. After about 10 minutes, the gel should start to fall off.
There are several ways to strengthen your nails after removing gel nail polish. You can use a glass nail file to smooth and seal the edges of your nails, reducing their susceptibility to splits and breakages. You can also use keratin gloves, which can be purchased at a beauty supply store or online, to help strengthen your nails. Additionally, you can take biotin supplements and eat a healthy diet with sufficient amounts of protein, biotin, and calcium to promote nail strength.
