Is your biggest nightmare chipping or peeling gel nails a lot more prematurely than you would have expected?
You are not alone.
Many people fall prey to common mistakes while applying or caring for gel nails, which leads to annoying results. Whether you’re doing it for the first or millionth time, tiny mistakes could be made that could change how long your manicure will last and look.
From inadequate nail preparation to using the wrong products, it can affect everything from the strength to the finish of your gel nails. Refrain from worrying- understanding these pitfalls is the secret to reaching salon-quality results that last.
Ready to give your gel nails the TLC (Tender Loving Care) they need?
Keep reading to discover the five most common mistakes and how to avoid them to see flawless, long-lasting nails.
RELATED: Builder Gel Nails: Strength and Style at the Best Nail Salons in Phoenix
1. Not Using Quality Gel Nail Polish
One mistake you could make with your nails is applying low-budget gel nail polish.
Less expensive polishes usually are less pigmented, thinner, and weirdly formulated to damage your nails. You may notice your manicure chips sooner or peel off more quickly than they normally would.
That would mean that, for finishing, your nails may have to be more chip-resistant, which can be frustrating because you want your nails to look great for a longer period.
High-quality gel nail polish is easier to apply, provides better coverage, and lasts longer. It is generally stronger, helping to prevent chips for an extended period and keeping your nails looking fresh.
Many high-quality gel polishes go through manufacturing with fewer harmful ingredients, which are gentler for your nails and cuticles. Quality products keep your manicure beautiful and intact and take care of your nails for a long period.
2. Skipping The Nail Prep
The big no-no for your gel manicure could be not preparing the nails themselves. Not cleaning and dehydrating or buffing your nails before application could be that huge mistake, setting you up for poor adhesion that could manifest as either lifting or an early chipping of the varnish.
Otherwise, if adequately prepped, the gel polish will adhere better. Clean and dry the nails. Lightly buff off the surface to take the shine off. Then, dehydrate the nail with a nail dehydrator to remove extra oils.
This will perfectly prepare the surface for a base coat. Extra steps like these will help you with the proper bonding of gel polish, hence leading you toward more durability and a flawless manicure.
So, remember, proper nail preparation is the surefire path to professionalism in application and durability.
3. Not Applying Thin Layers
Applying a thick layer to hurry up the process is very tempting, but this can lead to uneven curing and not a perfect finish. In many instances, thick layers of gel polish do not cure well and might show wrinkles, smudge or lift.
Rather than hurrying through the application, take the time needed and apply very thin, even coats. Thin layers will give you proper curing under the UV or LED lamp and provide a smooth, perfect finish that will last longer.
The layers should be thin enough to allow light to pass through and cure the product thoroughly. You may need to apply several thin layers, but it will be much more effective compared to trying to do one thick layer.
Patience eventually pays off. Your nails will also look polished and smooth and a lot stronger to give you that perfect gel manicure.
4. Curing For the Wrong Amount of Time
Among the main steps for a durable, professional-looking gel manicure, proper curing is included. A proper curing time for your gel polish is always required for a perfect manicure.
Otherwise, under-curing will make the nails feel tacky or soft and, therefore, are more prone to smudging or early chipping. On the other hand, over-curing the nail makes it brittle and prone to cracking.
Every gel polish product has its own prescribed curing time, which can result in a good outcome if followed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Always check the recommended curing time for the gel polish you’re using to ensure your nails harden correctly. This can vary depending on the product and the type of lamp you’re using (UV or LED).
Don’t rush the process—give your nails the proper amount of time under the light to fully set. Furthermore, the manicure will be stronger, longer-lasting, and damage-resistant by following the curing instructions precisely for a flawless result.
5. Skipping The Top Coat
Skipping the top coat is the easiest thing to do, but sure as heck, it is one you really want to take advantage of. With it, polish becomes more resistant to fading and losing its sheen or getting scratched lines across its surface.
The top coat works like a sealant that locks the color in and gives that gloss to the nails, which looks like it was professionally done. This keeps your nails feeling smooth and chip-free for longer.
Always finish your nail with a top-of-the-line top coat to make it look great. Not only does this make the color and shine pop, but it will also protect the polish from daily wear and tear.
This little step will make your manicure more durable and last longer.
Conclusion
Now, you are well on your way to perfect, long-lasting gel nails.
Top-of-the-range products, proper nail preparation, applying thin layers of gel, curing properly, and never skipping top coat will grant your manicure a much longer life and make it look salon-perfect.
With a little care and patience, you will achieve strong, smooth, and beautiful nails that won’t chip for weeks!
Happy polishing!
