How to Keep Your Gel Nails Healthy Between Salon Visits

Gel manicures are known for their long-lasting shine and durability, but maintaining nail health is just as important as achieving beautiful nails. Here’s a guide to help your clients take care of their gel nails between appointments and keep their nails looking and feeling their best.

1. Moisturise Regularly
One of the best ways to maintain healthy gel nails is by keeping the nails and cuticles hydrated. Encourage your clients to apply cuticle oil or a nourishing hand cream every day, especially around the nail bed, where dehydration can cause damage and dryness. Regular moisturising prevents brittleness and helps keep the gel manicure intact for longer.

2. Avoid Using Nails as Tools
As tempting as it may be, advise your clients not to use their nails as tools to open things or scrape surfaces. This can cause the gel to lift or break prematurely, leaving clients with chips or cracks. Instead, recommend using other tools like tweezers or a proper opener to protect both the natural nails and gel manicure.

3. Refrain from Picking at Gel Polish
Picking or peeling off gel polish can cause significant damage to the natural nail, as it pulls off layers of the nail plate along with the polish. Always remind your clients that when it's time for a new manicure, they should come in to have the gel removed professionally. This prevents any long-term damage to the nail health.

4. Protect Your Nails During Household Chores
Daily tasks like cleaning, gardening, or dishwashing can expose the nails to harsh chemicals or excessive moisture, leading to chipping or peeling. Recommend that your clients wear gloves when engaging in such activities. This simple step can protect the manicure from unnecessary wear and tear and preserve the gel's longevity.

5. Keep Nails Clean and Dry
Excess moisture under the nails can weaken the bond between the gel and natural nail. Advise clients to keep their nails dry, especially after washing hands or swimming. Additionally, make sure they’re regularly cleaning the nail area to remove any dirt or bacteria that can cause infections. This simple maintenance will help the gel stay secure and healthy.

6. Perform Regular Check-ups
Encourage your clients to check their nails weekly for any lifting or damage. If they notice any small issues, it's better to address them early. A quick touch-up or reapplication of a protective layer can prevent more significant problems later on.

7. Be Mindful of Nail Growth
As nails grow, the gel polish can begin to lift or show gaps near the cuticles. If your client’s gel manicure is starting to grow out, recommend a fill-in or a simple touch-up. This will extend the life of the manicure and keep their nails looking fresh without the need for a complete removal.

8. Protect Your Nails from UV Damage
While gel polish requires UV or LED light to cure, overexposure to UV rays can damage the nails and skin over time. Suggest to your clients to use UV-blocking gloves or hand protection during the curing process. This simple step helps shield their hands and nails from excess UV exposure, preserving their nail health.

9. Avoid Over-Buffing or Filing
While regular maintenance is essential, advise your clients against over-buffing or filing their gel nails. Too much filing or buffing can weaken the gel layer or even cause damage to the natural nail underneath. Always recommend a professional service for refills or fixes to maintain nail health.

10. Book Regular Appointments
Finally, encourage your clients to schedule regular gel nail appointments. Ideally, every two to three weeks is best to maintain the polish's integrity and protect the natural nails. At each visit, the nails can be refreshed, and any wear and tear can be addressed before it becomes an issue.

By following these tips, your clients can enjoy their gel nails for longer, while keeping their natural nails in great condition. Healthy nails are the key to long-lasting manicures, so help your clients maintain their nails with proper care between salon visits!