Gellak, or gel nail polish, is a popular choice for those who want long-lasting, glossy nails. However, even the best gel manicure can chip or peel if not properly applied and maintained. If you want to extend the life of your gellak and keep it looking flawless, this article provides eight simple yet essential tips.
1. Start with Proper Nail Preparation
Any oil or residue on nails can cause the polish to lift or chip prematurely. Before applying gellak, wash hands thoroughly and dry completely. Use a nail buffer to gently remove shine from the nail surface, and wipe nails with a lint-free pad soaked in rubbing alcohol or nail cleanser. Furthermore, this step ensures that the base coat adheres properly, creating a strong foundation for the manicure.
2. Apply Thin, Even Layers
One big mistake when applying gel polish is using thick layers. Thick coats take longer to cure and may not harden properly, leading to peeling and chipping. For a durable manicure, apply thin, even layers of each product—base coat, color coat, and top coat. Be sure to cap the free edge of the nail by lightly brushing the polish along the tip. Doing this seals will layers and prevents premature chipping.
3. Cure Your Nails Correctly
Proper curing is essential to keep a gel manicure intact. Always use a high-quality UV or LED lamp that matches the gel polish brand. Make sure each coat is fully cured before applying the next one. If the polish remains tacky or soft after curing, it may not have had enough light. Follow the recommended curing time for the lamp and keep hands steady during the process to ensure even curing.
4. Avoid Water Exposure Right After Application
Always remember that freshly cured gel polish may seem dry, but it continues to set for a little while after curing. Avoid prolonged exposure to water for at least a few hours after your manicure. Also, water can weaken the bond between the polish and your nails, leading to lifting. When doing household chores like washing dishes, wear gloves to protect your nails from unnecessary moisture.
5. Be Gentle with Your Hands
Avoid using your nails as tools to open cans, scrape off stickers, or perform other rough tasks. However, if you need to do activities that may strain your nails, use the pads of your fingers instead of your nails. Being mindful of how you use your hands can go a long way in keeping your gellak manicure intact.
6. Keep Your Cuticles and Nails Hydrated
Hydration is important for nail health and polish durability. Dry nails break easily, causing gel polish to chip. Use cuticle oil daily to keep nails strong and prevent dryness. Moisturizing hands helps nails stay flexible, reducing cracks. Pick a non-greasy hand cream to keep hands soft without affecting gel polish.
7. Neglect Picking or Peeling Your Gellak
If you notice a small chip in your gel polish, resist the urge to pick or peel it off. Peeling off gel polish can damage the top layers of your natural nails, leaving them weak and uneven. Instead, gently file the chipped area to smooth it out and apply a thin layer of top coat to extend the wear of your manicure. If your gel polish is severely lifting, it’s best to remove it properly using acetone rather than peeling it off.
8. Refresh with a Top Coat
To maintain its glossy finish and prevent chipping, apply a fresh layer of top coat every few days. This not only reinforces the strength of the polish but also seals any minor imperfections that could lead to bigger chips. Make sure to cure the top coat properly under a UV or LED lamp for the best results.
Flawless Gellak, Lasting Shine!
Keeping your gellak manicure chip-free is all about proper application and maintenance. From prepping your nails to protecting your hands, you can enjoy long-lasting, flawless nails. Hydrating your nails, avoiding picking, and refreshing with a top coat will further extend the life of your manicure. With these simple yet effective tips, your gel nails will stay glossy and beautiful for weeks.
