One thing I am continuously complimented on is my nails. It’s one little treat I really look forward to each month and I really take pride in the finished result.
I can’t take all the credit for my nails though. 90% of the credit goes to my nail tech for the consistently killer work that they do and the remaining 10% I would say is down to how well I look after my nails.
A lot of people I know struggle to make their gel manicure last even two weeks whereas I’ve been known to make a gel manicure last up to five weeks without any chips or breaks. This is a feat I’m quite proud of tbh. It’s not exactly a science but I have five tips which allow my gel manicures to last the month.
This is how I get my manicure to last in between appointments.
Condition Daily
Every day, I make sure to apply nail oil on my cuticles and skin around my nails. Nail oils are really good for nourishing your cuticles and nails, helping to prevent rag nails, breakages and improving overall nail health.
I use Naf Stuff’s nail oil pen as I find them easier to keep on my person and use on the go. I like to keep a stash at home, as well as my bag and my desk at work, so I don’t really have an excuse not to use them! Their oils include Vitamin E and jojoba oil which are super nourishing, as well as a delicious scent. Read more about them here.
Using a nail oil will only take a couple minutes each day and is a good habit to get into, making sure your nails stay healthy and conditioned.
Protect your hands
You should always use gloves when cleaning or washing dishes, a tip I picked up from my mum, and will protect both your nails and your skin.
Hot water is extremely drying to both your skin and your nails so I will wear gloves when washing up just to protect my hands. Hot water can also cause gel polish to lift resulting in your manicure lasting not nearly as long as it should.
This should go without saying but you definitely should make sure to wear gloves when cleaning! Not exposing your skin to harsh chemicals should be common sense. Additionally, these chemicals can react with the gel polish and weaken it, again causing your manicure not to last.
I use non-latex medical gloves since marigolds tend to trigger my eczema. These are disposable but I will use them until they tear (not about that single-use plastic life)!
Don’t File
This might sound counterproductive if trying to maintain your nails but you should avoid filing your nails. Gel polish adheres to your nail bed – filing this incorrectly (yes, there is a correct way to file) can risk damaging the natural nails underneath. Filing will also remove the seal around the nail which can cause the polish to lift or chip. If you do have to file, use a glass file rather than an emery board or anything too rough, this will cause the least amount of damage. I use the OPI Crystal Nail File and have done so for years, it’s by far my favourite!
I also try to avoid removing gel unless it gets to a point I really have to. I can really damage your nails if you don’t know what you and doing and even if you do know what you’re doing, it can be a bit of a faff to do at home. It’s best just to leave it to the professionals with the proper kit so you don’t find yourself raiding your kitchen looking for the tin foil.
Pick your design wisely
The only time in life that I am organised is when it becomes time to organise nail appointments. Liking to have my appointments booked fairly far in advance, I know that sometimes there will be at least four weeks until my next appointment. In these circumstances, I will always choose a nail design that allows for growth without it being too apparent i.e a french or chevron design. My nails grow really fast so my go-to French with a nude base makes the growth less obvious than if I had a more colourful design at the nail base.
Latterly, I have been getting BIAB rather than gel as it keeps my nails strong in between appointments.
Go somewhere reputable
Reputable doesn’t need to mean expensive. When choosing a salon to visit, it’s good to visit their Instagram if they have one but also Google them to read customer reviews.
One thing I can not emphasise the importance of when choosing where to go is cleanliness. Do they sanitise their equipment and work station? If not, I am going to wage they either don’t know what they’re doing or just have no pride in their work. Places that take the time to clean are most likely to take the additional time needed to prep your nails properly so that your manicure lasts. Also, you won’t come away with a nasty nail infection. Always a bonus!
Not exactly re-inventing the wheel with my five tips but I have found that these really work for me. The best way to maintain your manicure is to have it removed and applied by a professional on a regular basis but these tips should help you until your next appointment or with your overall nail health.
Do you have any tips that you recommend? Let me know!
Until next time,
Ashleigh x
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