After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure.

After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure.

      There’s nothing quite like having a new manicure set. Choosing gel nail polish allows you to benefit from chip-free nails for a longer duration compared to regular polish. This method is essentially the “high-maintenance-to-be-low-maintenance” way to experiment with nail trends or colors without worrying about chipping. However, gel manicures sometimes don’t last as long as expected. After spending your hard-earned money (and around an hour at the salon), you want your manicure to endure, especially with a busy schedule full of social events that you want your nails to complement. After discussing with Daisy Kalnina, founder of The GelBottle, I’ve identified the reasons why some gel manicures fail to last (and why mine often don't), along with expert-backed advice to help your gel manicure last longer. Keep reading for all the details.

      How Long Should a Gel Manicure Last?

      “A well-applied gel manicure should ideally last 2-3 weeks,” Kalnina notes. “With the right preparation and aftercare, many clients find they can last closer to the full three weeks without chipping or lifting.” Despite the numerous tips to extend the life of your gel manicure, certain lifestyle factors can lead to premature chipping or peeling. “Jobs that require heavy manual labor, frequent hand washing, or exposure to harsh chemicals (like hairdressers, healthcare professionals, and cleaners) can increase stress on the manicure,” Kalnina explains. “Engaging in activities such as gardening, rock climbing, swimming, or playing musical instruments can also contribute to wear and tear,” she adds. “Regular exposure to strong cleaning agents, hand sanitizers with high alcohol content, or some skincare products that frequently come in contact with nails can affect longevity,” she continues.

      To extend the life of your gel manicure, check out the following tips, pitfalls to avoid, and recommended products to help prolong your nail appointments.

      1. Pay Attention to Preparation

      “Properly preparing your nails is essential for a long-lasting gel manicure,” Kalnina advises. “A qualified nail technician should begin with careful cuticle work: gently pushing them back and trimming any excess. This allows the gel to adhere directly to your nail, preventing early lifting,” she explains. “Afterward, they should lightly buff the nail plate with a fine-grit buffer to create a slightly porous surface that promotes optimal gel adhesion without damaging your natural nails.”

      2. Resist the Urge to Pick

      While it's tempting to pick at your gels, this is one of the main reasons many gel manicures don’t last. “Picking at the edges or peeling off the gel not only destroys your manicure but can significantly harm your natural nail plate, making future manicures less durable,” Kalnina warns. If you notice a chip, refrain from picking it and reach out to your nail technician for repairs or removal.

      3. Avoid Using Your Nails as Tools

      As the saying goes, “Nails are jewels, not tools.” Using your nails to open packages or cans can quickly take a toll. “Activities like opening cans, scraping off labels, or prying things open can put significant pressure on the gel, causing chips or breaks,” says Kalnina. Use scissors for packages and your fingertips to open cans. In general, be gentle with your nails; avoid banging them, tapping, or typing too aggressively,” she advises.

      4. Wear Gloves

      When doing household chores, it's best to wear gloves to safeguard your hands and nails from bumps and scrapes, as well as from cleaning products that could harm your manicure. “During tasks like housework, gardening, or any situation involving strong chemicals or prolonged exposure to water, gloves are essential. This protects your manicure from damage and harmful substances,” Kalnina instructs. “Extended exposure to water (such as washing dishes without gloves or taking long baths) can weaken adhesion over time, especially without proper drying afterward,” she adds.

      5. Use Cuticle Oil and Hand Cream

      Aftercare is crucial for prolonging the life of your gel manicure. “Dry nails and cuticles can result in the gel lifting at the edges, so consistent hydration is vital! Apply a quality cuticle oil (like The GelBottle Inc. Cuticle Essence, £12) at least twice daily. This keeps your nails and cuticles hydrated and supple, minimizing chipping and lifting,” Kalnina recommends. Having a good hand cream on your desk or bedside can also be beneficial. “Well-moisturized hands contribute to the health of your nails and the durability of your gel,” she adds.

      6. Choose Your Nail Color Wisely

      If you want your manicure to last, selecting certain nail colors can help make the inevitable growth less noticeable. Neutrals: “Colors that closely match your skin tone are great because they blend with the growth line,” Kalnina notes. Nude nail designs are a reliable choice. Sheer Shades: “These shades let your natural nail color show through

After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure. After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure.

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After struggling for years, I've figured it out—this is how to extend the longevity of your gel manicure.

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