Sophia Delgado
Gel manicures are supposed to be long-lasting, but they can start to chip after just a few days. There are many reasons why this might happen, including improper nail preparation, thick coats of gel that don't cure completely, uncapped free edges, and over-exposure to chemicals. Incorrect filing techniques can also affect the longevity of a gel manicure, as aggressive filing can create ridges that prevent a smooth gel polish layer from adhering properly. Additionally, the humidity in the summer can impact how well the gel cures, and soft nails that bend easily may not be strong enough to withstand the rigidity of gel polish.
Why do my gel nails chip at the tip?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Incorrect filing techniques | Aggressive filing that thins or creates ridges on the natural nail makes it harder for a smooth gel polish layer to anchor on properly |
| Uncapped free edges | The free edge is where the nail plate stops at the tip of the finger. Gel polish along this edge is more prone to chipping because it's thin and exposed |
| Improper nail prep | Not removing natural oils and dehydrating the nail plate |
| Thick coats of gel | Thick coats of gel that don't cure completely |
| Bad quality gel polish | The bond weakens and causes the polish to separate from the nail |
| Over-exposure to chemicals | Over-exposure to chemicals like nail polish remover, detergents, thinners, disinfecting sprays and hard scrubs can damage and dehydrate the gel manicure and underlying natural nails over time |
| Excessive picking or biting of nails | Excessive picking or biting of nails causes small cracks and folds that prevent gel polish from adhering properly |
| Using nails as tools | Using nails as tools for tasks like opening bottles or prying things also creates mechanical stress leading to lifting |
| Inferior gel nail polishes and lamps | Inferior gel nail polishes and lamps may not polymerize fully when cured |
| Humidity | The humidity in the summer can affect how well the gel cures |
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What You'll Learn
Incorrect nail filing technique
To avoid this issue, it is recommended to use a fine-grit file in one direction only, from the cuticle to the tip of the nail. This helps create a smooth and even surface for the gel polish to adhere to. Additionally, if you plan to file your nails after applying gel polish, it is important to follow the correct steps to re-seal the edges and prevent chipping.
It is worth noting that filing your nails is not the only factor that can cause chipping. Other common causes include improper nail preparation, thick coats of gel that don't cure completely, uncapped free edges, and over-exposure to chemicals such as nail polish remover and detergents. Maintaining proper nail care and following the appropriate curing guide are crucial to prevent chipping and ensure the longevity of your gel manicure.
If your gel nails start to chip, it is recommended to file the nail where the chip occurred, avoid picking at it, and seal it with a top coat. This can help extend the life of your manicure until you can have the gels removed or redone.
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Poor-quality gel polish
One issue with poor-quality gel polishes is their lack of durability. Some gel polishes may start chipping within a few days of application, which can be frustrating if you're looking for a long-lasting manicure. The chipping may be due to the polish's inability to bend with your nails. Soft nails that bend easily may cause cracks in the gel polish, as gel does not bend well.
Additionally, some gel polishes may have issues with colour accuracy and consistency. The colour you see in advertisements or on the website may not match the actual colour on your nails, leading to disappointment. Inconsistent results can make it challenging to achieve the desired look.
Furthermore, some gel polishes may have a strong chemical smell, which can be off-putting to some users. The removal process for poor-quality gel polishes can also be challenging, requiring harsh removal methods that can damage your nails.
To avoid these issues, it is essential to invest in high-quality gel polishes that have good reviews for durability, colour accuracy, ease of application, and curing. Taking care of your nails by keeping them moisturized and using cuticle oil can also help prevent chipping and maintain the health of your nails.
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Improper nail preparation
Firstly, it is crucial to remove any natural oils and dehydrate the nail plate before applying gel polish. This step ensures that the gel manicure lasts longer. After this, an acid primer can be used, followed by a builder gel, acrylic, or polygel overlay.
Next, the application of the base coat is essential. It should be painted not only on the nail bed but also on the underside and free edge of the nail, ensuring that it is fully encased. The free edge, or nail plate, ends at the tip of the finger, and this thin, exposed area is more prone to chipping. Therefore, capping or sealing the edges after filing by applying a thin layer of gel before curing is necessary to prevent chipping.
Additionally, the shape of the nails can impact chipping. Nails with square shapes are more susceptible to chipping or lifting at the corners compared to almond-shaped nails. A small polygel extension of a few millimeters can help seal the edge and prevent chipping in square-shaped nails.
Furthermore, the quality of the gel polish is vital. Inferior gel nail polishes may not polymerize fully when cured, leading to chipping. Using a high-quality gel nail polish can help prevent this issue.
Lastly, the thickness of the gel polish layers matters. Thick coats of gel may not cure completely, leading to chipping. Thus, it is recommended to apply thin coats of the base coat, color gel, and topcoat.
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Uncapped free edges
To prevent chipping, it is important to "'cap' or seal these edges by applying a thin layer of gel polish before curing with an LED/UV light. This helps to create a smooth and strong finish that can last for at least two to three weeks without chipping. It is recommended to replace gel manicures every three weeks as nails can suffer minor wear over time, even with careful maintenance.
Additionally, it is important to note that incorrect filing techniques can also affect the durability of gel manicures. Aggressive filing that thins or creates ridges on the natural nail can make it challenging for the gel polish to adhere properly. Therefore, it is advisable to ask your nail technician to use a fine-grit file in one direction only, from the cuticle to the tip of the nail.
Other factors that can contribute to chipping include improper nail preparation, thick coats of gel that do not cure completely, harsh chemicals such as nail polish remover and detergents, and excessive nail picking or biting. Maintaining healthy nails is also crucial, as soft and bendy nails can lead to cracks in the gel polish.
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Over-exposure to chemicals
Over-exposure to certain chemicals can cause your gel nails to chip at the tip. The free edge, where the nail plate ends at the tip of the finger, is particularly vulnerable to chipping because the gel polish here is thin and exposed.
Nail polish remover, detergents, thinners, disinfecting sprays, and hard scrubs are among the chemicals that can damage and dehydrate your gel manicure and the natural nail underneath over time. Therefore, it is recommended to wear protective gloves when doing rigorous chores and to use gentle cleansers when washing your hands.
Additionally, excessive nail-picking or biting can create small cracks and folds that prevent the gel polish from adhering properly. Using your nails as tools, such as opening bottles or prying things, can also cause mechanical stress, leading to lifting and chipping.
To avoid these issues, be mindful of any potential trauma to your nails and opt for gentle, nourishing products for your hands and nails. This includes using alcohol-free sanitizers, cuticle oils, and hand creams to maintain nail health and prevent the gel polish from drying out.
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Frequently asked questions
This could be due to a number of reasons. Firstly, it could be because your nails are soft, brittle, or weak, which causes the gel to crack. Secondly, it could be due to bad preparation of the nail plate or incorrect application of the products. Thirdly, it could be that you are not wearing gloves when washing up or cleaning, or that you are using your nails as tools, which can cause chipping. Finally, it could be that you are not using a high-quality UV LED lamp, which is essential for ensuring proper curing and durability.
To prevent chipping, you can try the following:
- Use an acid primer, a builder gel/acrylic/polygel overlay, and paint the base coat on the underside and free edge of the nail to ensure it is fully encased.
- Buff your nails to create a slightly rough surface for better adhesion.
- Degrease the nail plate with nail cleaner or acetone to remove oils.
- Wear gloves when washing up and cleaning, and avoid using your nails as tools.
- Use a high-quality UV LED lamp to ensure proper curing and durability.
If your gel nails have already started to chip, you can try the following:
- File the nail where the chip occurred and seal it with a top coat.
- Apply a thin layer over the top of the polish and seal the edge by painting over the tip of the nail.
- Keep your nails short while they grow back and give them some extra care, such as hand massages or full-body massages.
A gel manicure should last a maximum of two to three weeks before risking potential damage to your nail beds. It is recommended to give your nails a one- to two-week break for every eight weeks of gel polish. Therefore, you should aim to get your gel nails removed within two to three weeks to prevent chipping and potential nail damage.
