Ava Monroe
There are many reasons why gel nail polish may chip, including improper preparation of the nail plate, inaccurate buffing, insufficient degreasing, and a lack of primer. Applying the gel polish too thickly can also cause chipping, as it prevents the colour coats from curing fully. To prevent chipping, it is recommended to seal the tips of the nails by swiping them with a thin layer of polish and a top coat. Maintaining nail health is also important, as weak, brittle, or damaged nails can cause chipping.
Characteristics and their values regarding gel nail polish chipping
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Incorrectly chosen products | Using a too rigid base on a very soft nail plate |
| Overfiling the nail plate | Applying the product to damaged nails |
| Inaccurate buffing of the nail | Insufficient degreasing with a cleaner |
| Neglecting the application of primer | Not sealing the tips |
| Applying too thick a layer of the product | Not using the same brand lamp as the polish |
| Not prepping nails properly | Not maintaining your handiwork |
| Weak or brittle nails | Not keeping hands and cuticles hydrated |
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What You'll Learn
Incorrectly chosen products
It is also important to consider the nail plate. If the nail plate is damaged, the product's adhesion will be weak, and the polish will start to chip. The rigidity of the product in relation to the nail plate is also a factor. If a rigid base is applied to a very soft nail plate, it will likely detach from the free edge of the nail. A rigid product will not adapt to the natural, flexible movements of the nail plate.
It is also important to seal the tips of your nails to prevent chips. Chips often start at the tips, so by swiping your polish and top coat over the tips, you can seal in the colour and protect it from chipping.
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Overfiling the nail plate
When people complain that "artificial nails ruined my natural nails," they are often referring to overfiling damage. This occurs when a nail technician uses a file with a grit that is too low, or applies too much pressure during the filing process, creating deeper and wider scratches on the nail plate. A lower grit means there are fewer but larger abrasive particles on the nail file, which can cause more significant damage to the nail plate.
To avoid overfiling, it is recommended to use a 240-grit file with a very light touch. A 180-grit file may be used, but only with caution as it can create considerable thinning of the nail plate. It is important to remember that the natural nail plate should be kept thick and intact as much as possible.
If overfiling has occurred, it is best to postpone any nail stylization until the nail plate has fully healed. Keep the nails trimmed short and use regenerating oils to support the reconstruction process. It may take several months or even a year for the nail to fully recover from onycholysis (nail separation), which can occur due to overfiling.
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Thick layers of polish
Applying a thick layer of polish can also lead to an unattractive appearance, especially at the free edge of the nail. The solution is to apply thin layers of polish, taking care to seal the tips of the nails to prevent chips. Chips often start at the tips, so by lightly swiping the polish and top coat over the tips, you can seal in the colour and protect it from chipping for longer.
If you are visiting a salon for your manicure, be sure to go back to the salon if your gel polish starts to chip after only a few days. They should last longer than that, and the salon should fix them for free. If you are unhappy with the results, you can also try going to a different salon for future appointments.
If you are applying gel nail polish at home, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take your time. Inspect your work thoroughly before putting it under the light, and make sure it is covered. When done correctly, gel nail polish should wear away slowly and evenly, lasting longer and looking better.
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Poor nail preparation
One common mistake is inaccurate buffing of the nail plate. Overfiling the nail plate can lead to pain and weak adhesion of the gel polish, resulting in quick cracking and chipping. It is important to allow the nail plate to heal completely before applying any products. Trimming the nails short and using regenerating oils can help prepare the nails for a manicure.
Another important step in nail preparation is degreasing. Insufficient cleaning or skipping this step can affect the durability of the manicure. Using a nail cleaner or a degreasing agent helps create a better base for the polish to adhere to. Additionally, applying a nail primer, when necessary, can further enhance the adhesion and longevity of the gel polish.
The health of your nails and cuticles is also essential. Keeping your hands and cuticles hydrated is crucial, as dry nails are more prone to breaking, flaking, and chipping. Using cuticle creams or hand creams regularly can help maintain proper nail health and prevent chipping.
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Lack of aftercare
Manicurist and Mii Nails Pro ambassador, Hayley McColm, suggests using a cuticle cream or hand cream wherever possible. She recommends cream textures over cuticle oil as they are more practical and less messy, especially when on the go. Creams also sink in quicker, which means you will be more inclined to use them more often. It is also important to avoid harsh, alcohol-laden handwashes and always moisturise after washing or sanitising hands. Wearing rubber gloves when washing up and doing household chores is another way to protect your hands and nails from damage.
Additionally, applying a new layer of the top coat every three to four days will keep the colour fresh, glossy, and protected from chips. However, this should be done a maximum of every three days to avoid a polish build-up that will eventually peel away.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several reasons why gel nail polish may chip. One of the main reasons is that the polish was applied too thick, preventing the colour coats from curing fully. Applying a new layer of the top coat every three to four days will keep the colour fresh and prevent chips.
To prevent chipping, seal your tips by swiping your polish and top coat over the tips of your nails to seal in the colour. You should also keep your hands and cuticles hydrated as dry nails are more likely to break, flake, and chip.
Before applying gel nail polish, ensure your nail plate is properly prepared. Inaccurate buffing of the nail and insufficient degreasing with a cleaner are common mistakes in preparing the nail plate for a manicure.
