Peeling gel polish is one of the most common problems faced by both beginners and experienced nail technicians. It is important to understand that even the best gel polish will not last if you do not follow the basic rules of application and care. Let's look at what mistakes usually lead to peeling and how to fix them.
Improper nail preparation
- Mistake: Not cleaning and preparing your nails properly before applying gel polish. If your nails are not clean of dirt, grease, old polish, or moisturizer, the gel polish will not stick well.
- How to fix it: Before applying gel polish, be sure to treat your nails with an antiseptic or primer. It is also worth using a buff to degrease and lightly sand the surface of the nail.
Insufficient or too thick base
- Mistake: If the base is applied too thinly, the gel polish may not have good adhesion to the nail, and if it is too thick, it will lead to its peeling during wear.
- How to fix it: Apply the base coat evenly and thinly. Remember that the base coat should cover the nail, but not be too thick, otherwise bubbles or cracks may appear.
Applying color to a poorly dried base
- Mistake: Applying colored gel polish to a base coat that is not yet completely dry. This can result in the coating being soft and quickly rubbing off or peeling off.
- How to fix: Make sure each layer of base and top coat is completely cured in the lamp before applying the next layer.
Neglecting the cuticle and side rollers
- Mistake: If gel polish gets on the cuticle or side rollers, it may cause it to peel off from these areas after a few days.
- How to fix: Avoid getting gel polish on your cuticles. To do this, use an orange stick or a special tool to push back the cuticles during application. If polish gets on your skin, use a sharp tool to remove residue before curing.
Lack of nail tip coverage
- Mistake: Not covering the tips of your nails properly can cause the polish to peel off from those areas.
- How to fix: Be sure to apply polish to the tip of the nail before curing to avoid chipping. This is important not only for the base coat, but also for each layer of color coating.
Using old tools or a lamp
- Mistake: Using old lamps that do not ensure uniform drying of the coating, or old brushes that can impair the quality of the application.
- How to fix: Check to see if your lamp is working properly and if it's time to replace it. Also, clean your brushes and other tools regularly.
Proper nail preparation, even application of base coat, colored gel polish and top coat, and cuticle care are key factors to avoid peeling and ensure the longevity of your manicure. By following these simple rules, you can enjoy a flawless manicure for a long time!