How To Prevent Gel Nails From Lifting
Nothing ruins the joy of a fresh gel manicure like lifting nails. It’s frustrating, it’s messy and it cuts the life of your gorgeous nails short. But don’t worry — lifting doesn’t have to be part of your gel nail journey. With the right prep, products and care, you can enjoy long-lasting nails that truly slay!
In this blog, we explore expert tips and tricks to prevent gel nails from lifting.
Why do my gel nails keep lifting?
Lifting happens to the best of us, but once you know the culprits, it’s super easy to fix. Here are the most common reasons behind gel nail lifting:
- General wear and tear — Gel nails aren’t built to last forever, but with proper care, they can stay flawless for about two weeks. Daily habits play a big role in how long they hold up. For example, if nails are regularly exposed to harsh chemicals, the gel may start to lift, chip or peel sooner than expected.
- Inadequate nail prep — If your nails aren’t cleaned, the gel just won’t stick. Oils, dirt or leftover polish are like roadblocks to perfect adhesion.
- Using low-quality products — Not all gels are created equal! Cheap products might save a few dollars upfront but could lead to gel nail polish lifting.
The importance of proper nail prep
When it comes to gel nails, preparation is just as important as the application process. Follow these steps to create the ideal canvas for your gel manicures:
Step 1: Cleanse and dry thoroughly
Start with a fresh canvas! Use a lint-free wipe and acetone or nail cleanser to remove any old polish, dirt and oils from your nails.
Step 2: Gently buff the nail surfaces
Lightly buff the surface of your nails using a fine-grit buffer. This creates a slightly rough texture for better adhesion, but don’t overdo it — you want to avoid weakening the natural nail.
Step 3: Push back the cuticles
Use a cuticle pusher to remove any dead skin from the nail plate. This removes any gaps near the base of your nail where lifting can start.
Mastering the gel application process
Here are some easy tips to ensure a flawless finish every time:
- Less is more — Apply thin layers of product to avoid bulkiness, uneven curing or bubbling.
- Keep the gel away from the skin and cuticles — If the product touches these areas, it can cause gel nail lifting and peeling. Use a fine detail brush to clean up any accidental overflow before curing.
- Allow ample time for curing — Cure each layer under a UV/LED lamp for the full recommended time based on your product. Under-curing can leave the gel soft or sticky, while over-curing can cause it to become brittle.
- Seal the free edge — Lightly swipe the brush along the tip of the nail (the free edge) to “cap” the gel and lock everything in place.
Aftercare tips for salon-worthy nails
Even the most perfectly applied manicure can lose its shine or start to lift without aftercare. Follow these best practices to maintain Insta-worthy gel nails!
- Wear gloves for household chores
Harsh chemicals, water and constant scrubbing can take a toll on your nails. Protect them by wearing gloves when washing dishes, cleaning or doing any heavy-duty tasks. Your nails will thank you!
- Reapply a top coat every few days
Give your nails an extra layer of protection by reapplying a top coat every two to three days. This helps to lock in the shine and keep your gel looking salon-fresh.
Unlock the secret to beautiful gel nails with NSI Australia
And the final secret to durable gel nails? High-quality tools and products! At NSI Australia, we offer lasting gel coatings and nail prep tools that turn every mani into a masterpiece. We also have gel nail courses, perfect for both DIY nail art lovers and professional nail technicians.
Shop now and achieve salon-worthy finishes every single time!