We all want not only a good looking manicure, but also a long lasting manicure. Our simple, but effective tips will make all the difference in increasing the longevity of your gel nails. We're starting with the prep and finishing with the aftercare, keeping your hands glowing and your manicure looking fresh after weeks of wear.
How do I prepare my nails for a gel manicure?
To start with, make sure you have healthy nails! If your nails are thin, bending or brittle you may need to take some time to give your nails some TLC and bring them back to a strong healthy state before you go ahead with a gel manicure.
Preparation is very important to ensure that your manicure lasts as long as possible.
- Make sure to buff your entire nail surface lightly with your Nail File, making sure to get right to the base and sides of the nail. Buffing all over the nails is crucial because it roughs up the surface of the nail slightly to give your Base Coat Polish something to stick to. Without the nail being buffed, the Gel Nail Polish won’t stick very well and is likely to peel.
- Another important step in your prep is using applying Nail Polish Remover to a Lint Free Wipe and wiping you nails to dehydrate them. This also removes any dust or debris on your nails, giving you a smooth, flawless base.
- Above all, take care with your prep - it is such a vital step in achieving a perfect long lasting manicure so it’s worth taking your time and getting it right.
How do I apply Gel Nail Polish perfectly?
Painting your nails correctly can have a huge impact on how your nails last. There are a few extra tips we can give you that will make all of the difference.
- The general rule of thumb is to apply thin coats of Gel Nail Polish, curing after each coat. Keeping the layers thin, paying attention to the edges of the nail as this is where pooling can occur. This will ensure your manicure looks tidy and cures under your UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp effectively.
- Always cap the free edge of each Gel Nail Polish coat so that the edges of your nails are sealed off. This means water and other products you use on your hands can’t get underneath your manicure, preventing premature lifting.
- Avoid getting Gel Polish on your skin, as this can not only be damaging to your skin but can cause lifting or chipping when the Gel Nail Polish begins to lift away as your nails grow. We suggest leaving a small gap between your nail and the cuticle to avoid this. Make sure to remove any Gel Nail Polish on your skin or cuticle prior to curing with an Orangewood Cuticle Stick.
- Remember, if you're not happy with a coat, you can simply wipe off with a Lint Free Wipe soaked in Nail Polish Remover and try again.
How do I care for my gel manicure?
Once your nails are painted and set, you want to give your nails the best chance possible by protecting them from day to day tasks that can damage your manicure.
- Things like washing the dishes, using cleaning products and gardening can all be harsh on your nails. It’s easy to prevent damaging them by wearing gloves when performing these tasks! This will make a huge difference in the longevity of your manicure, as it will prevent the warm water, dish soaps and chemicals coming in contact with your nails and causing them to weaken, chip or peel.
- Lastly, use Cuticle Oil to keep your nails healthy and nourished. Not only will your nails look flawless, it will also promote nail growth and strength so you will have less down time in between manicures.
