Nothing is as frustrating as gel polish that starts chipping, peeling, or flaking after just a few days. Gel polish should stay perfect for up to two weeks, so if it comes off earlier, something is wrong in the process. Don't worry, in this blog, you'll discover the ten most common causes and get tips to keep your manicure looking great next time.
1. You are using the wrong lamp or an outdated lamp
Not every lamp is suitable for every type of gel polish. Are you using a lamp with too high wattage or from a different brand? Then the polish won't cure properly and will come off faster. Always use a lamp from the same brand as your gel polish, such as the Pink Gellac LED lamps.
Pay attention: is your lamp older than three to five years? Then the power may decrease. In that case, consider getting a new one for optimal curing.
2. You are not preparing your nails properly
Proper preparation is the foundation of a long-lasting manicure. Always degrease your nails with a special Cleaner, use a Polishing Block or a fine file of 180 grit, and don't forget the Prep Booster for extra adhesion. Avoid hand cream, oils, and contact with water for at least an hour before and after applying polish.
Do not use acetone or regular nail polish remover. They can disrupt adhesion.
3. You are not positioning your hand correctly in the lamp
A classic: the thumb does not cure properly because it is tilted. As a result, the polish often comes off the thumb first.
Tip: cure your thumb separately and ensure that all your fingers are flat and well-centered in the lamp.
4. Your nails are damaged or too flexible
Thin or damaged nails adhere less well. Use a Rubber Base for extra strength or take a break from gel polish and restore your nails with a Nail Recovery product.
5. You are using your nails as tools
Opening a can with your nail? Don't do it. It causes small cracks that make your polish come off faster. Preferably use a tool instead of your nail. This way, your manicure stays beautiful longer.
6. You forget to properly seal the nail edges
Properly sealing the polish with a Top Coat is essential. Don't forget the edges and tips of the nails. This prevents air or moisture from getting under the polish. For short nails, pull the skin slightly back under your nail to also polish the free edge.
Filing after polishing? Don't do it. This will damage the protective layer.
7. You are not using the right Base Coat for your nail type
Pink Gellac has different base coats, each with its own function. Do you often experience chipping or peeling? Then the Rubber Base is a good choice. Discover which base suits your nail type and needs best.
8. You are applying the gel polish too thickly
The thicker the layer, the greater the chance of it coming off. The polish won't cure properly and may bubble or flake off.
Better to apply two or three thin layers than one thick one. Each layer should be cured separately for the best result.
9. You are combining products from different brands
A base from brand A, a color from brand B, and a top coat from brand C may sound logical, but it doesn't always work well together. Each brand develops products that work optimally together. Mixing different brands can worsen adhesion.
10. You are not taking care of your nails enough after polishing
Aftercare is just as important as preparation. Use cuticle oil daily and wear gloves for household work. Avoid contact with aggressive cleaning agents. Well-cared-for nails hold the gel polish longer.
This is how to keep your gel polish perfect:
✔ Use the right lamp from the same brand
✔ Prepare your nails carefully
✔ Pay attention to the correct hand position in the lamp
✔ Apply thin layers and cure each layer separately
✔ Don't forget to properly seal the nail edges
✔ Take care of your nails even after polishing
With these ten tips, you are guaranteed a long-lasting manicure with a salon-quality result, right at home.
