Gel nails are a popular choice for many due to their long-lasting shine and durability. However, they don’t always last as long as people hope, often chipping or peeling after just a few days. If you want to extend the life of your gel nails, there are specific steps you can take to make sure they stay flawless for as long as possible. Here’s how to keep your gel manicure looking fresh for weeks.
Prepping Your Nails Properly
The key to long-lasting gel nails starts before you even apply the polish. Proper nail preparation is essential to ensure that your gel polish adheres correctly and doesn’t peel off prematurely.
Start with Clean, Dry Nails
Your nails need to be completely clean and dry before you begin applying gel polish. Oils, lotions, or even moisture can cause the gel to lift. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap, and then remove any leftover oils or residue using a lint-free wipe soaked in rubbing alcohol. This ensures that nothing is left on the nail’s surface that could interfere with the gel polish sticking properly.
Shape and Buff Your Nails
Shaping your nails is also crucial. File your nails in one direction to avoid causing splits or tears. Once your nails are shaped, lightly buff the surface of each nail with a buffing block. Buffing helps roughen up the nail surface just enough to allow the gel polish to grip better, which can prevent lifting.
Push Back Your Cuticles
Cuticles need to be pushed back gently before applying gel polish. If the gel polish gets onto your cuticles, it can lift more easily. Use a wooden stick or a cuticle pusher to push them back. Be careful not to cut them, as this could lead to infections.
Choosing the Right Products
Not all gel polishes are created equal, and the quality of the products you use can significantly affect the length of your manicure.
Use High-Quality Gel Polish
Invest in high-quality gel nail polish if you want your manicure to last. Cheaper brands may save you money initially, but they often don’t hold up as well. Brands like Gelish, CND Shellac, or OPI GelColor are known for their durability and long-lasting wear. While they may be a bit more expensive, they are worth it for a last manicure.
Invest in a Good Base and Top Coat
The base coat and top coat are just as important as the gel polish itself. The base coat helps the polish adhere to the nail, while the top coat seals in the colour and adds a layer of protection. Apply thin, even layers of both to prevent the gel from lifting or chipping. Thicker layers can peel more easily and make the nails feel heavy.
Application Tips for Long-Lasting Gel Nails
Once you’ve prepped your nails and chosen the right products, the way you apply the gel polish can make or break your manicure.
Apply Thin Coats of Gel Polish
One of the most common mistakes people make when applying gel polish is using coats that are too thick. Thick coats don’t cure properly under the lamp and can lead to peeling or lifting. Instead, apply thin, even coats, and cure each one thoroughly. You can always add another thin coat if you need more coverage, but thick layers will just lead to problems down the road.
Cap the Free Edge of the Nails
Capping the free edge of your nails—essentially sealing the very tip with polish—can prevent chipping. After applying each coat, run the brush along the edge of the nail to seal it. This adds an extra layer of protection to prevent the polish from lifting from the tip.
Cure Properly Under a UV/LED Lamp
Curing your nails properly is essential to ensure they last. Every layer of gel polish needs to be fully cured under a UV or LED lamp before you apply the next. Make sure you’re using a lamp that matches the type of gel polish you’re using, as different brands have different curing times. If the polish isn’t cured correctly, it can cause lifting or peeling within days.
Maintenance After Application
Proper maintenance after applying gel polish is key to keeping your manicure looking great for as long as possible.
Avoid Hot Water and Harsh Chemicals
Hot water and cleaning products can weaken the bond of gel polish, leading to premature chipping or lifting. When washing dishes or cleaning, wear gloves to protect your nails from water and chemicals. Also, try to limit your nails’ exposure to long soaks in hot water, such as during baths or hot showers.
Use Cuticle Oil Daily
Keeping your cuticles and nails hydrated helps prevent the gel polish from lifting. Apply a nourishing cuticle oil, such as jojoba or vitamin E oil, daily. This will keep your nails moisturized and prevent the polish from drying out, which can lead to cracks or chips.
Touch-Up with a Top Coat
To maintain the shine and prevent the tips from wearing down, apply a fresh layer of top coat every few days. This will help seal your manicure and keep it looking new.
Keep Your Gel Nails Fabulous
Making your gel nails last longer is all about preparation, quality products, proper application, and good maintenance habits. By following these steps, you can extend the life of your gel manicure and keep your nails looking fresh for weeks. Taking a little extra time to care for your nails will pay off in the long run, giving you a flawless manicure that stays perfect for longer.
