Maintain Gel Nails: Tips For Longer Wear
There’s nothing more satisfying than showing off a fresh set of gel nails. They’re glossy, flawless and picture-perfect, but that shine can fade quickly when a chip or peel shows up too soon. In this article, we explore how to make gel nails last longer. From simple prep steps to daily care hacks, these tips will help keep your mani looking gorgeous week after week.
Pre-application secrets
A little prep goes a long way. Follow these tips for making gel nails last longer:
- Clean and dry nails thoroughly
Any trace of oil, cream or moisture can cause lifting in just a few days. Remove impurities using a nail cleanser or dehydrator to create the perfect base before you start.
- Shape and buff nails
Shape your edges and lightly buff the surface to give the gel something to hold onto. If the nail plate is too shiny or uneven, the product won’t bond properly, which is a fast track to early peeling.
- Don’t forget to apply a high-quality base coat
Apply a base coat before the first layer of colour goes on. This creates a protective layer over your natural nail while ensuring proper adhesion. When applying your base coat, lightly cap the tip of your nail. Sealing the free edge adds extra protection against chips and peeling.
Daily gel nail care tips
Everyday activities like handwashing and doing the dishes can take a toll on your nails. If you’ve ever wondered, “How can I make my gel nails last longer?” these simple practices will help protect your mani from wear and dullness.
- Moisturise with cuticle oil
Cuticle oil nourishes the nail bed, keeps cuticles soft and prevents your natural nails from drying out under the gel. When nails stay hydrated, they’re less likely to split or crack. Make it a little ritual: massage a few drops in before bed and wake up with a more resilient mani!
- Wear gloves for cleaning and washing
Long soaks or repeated handwashing cause nails to swell and contract, which can loosen the gel’s grip. Add in detergents or cleaning agents and your gel polish doesn’t stand a chance. The fix is simple: slip on a pair of gloves when doing dishes, scrubbing the bathroom or even handling laundry. It’s one of the easiest habits to adopt, and your mani (and nails!) will thank you.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme heat
Your gel manicure is tough, but it isn’t invincible. Harsh cleaners, chlorine from the pool or high heat from saunas and hot showers can all cause the gel to lift, dull or break down faster. If you can’t avoid these completely, at least try to limit direct exposure and apply cuticle oil afterwards.
- Reapply a top coat
A fresh top coat is an essential part of your gel kit. It works like a shield for your manicure, locking in that glossy finish while giving your gel an extra layer of strength. Reapplying every seven to 10 days helps stop tiny chips from turning into bigger problems and keeps your nails looking salon-fresh.
Creating stunning gel nails starts with NSI Australia
The perfect gel mani comes down to equal parts smart prep, daily care and the right products. At NSI Australia, we offer all your mani essentials, from builder gel nail prep tools to gel polish sets for beginners and professionals alike. Shop now and achieve your dream mani in no time!