How to Prevent Gel Polish from Lifting or Peeling Off

As a nail technician, nothing is more frustrating than seeing a client's gel polish lift or peel off. Not only does this affect the longevity of your work, but it can also impact client satisfaction. Fortunately, with the right techniques and tools, you can ensure that gel polish lasts as long as possible. Here's how you can prevent lifting or peeling from happening.

1. Proper Nail Prep is Key

The most important step in ensuring gel polish stays put is proper nail preparation. Without proper prep, the gel doesn’t bond well with the nail plate, leading to peeling or lifting.

✅ Clean the Nails Thoroughly: Begin by removing any old polish and oils from the nail plate. You can use a nail cleanser or alcohol to wipe down the nails. This removes any natural oils and debris that can prevent adhesion.

✅ Push Back Cuticles: Use a cuticle pusher to gently push back the cuticles and remove any dead skin from the nail plate. This creates a clean surface for the gel to adhere to.

✅ Use a Nail E-Drill (Optional): After using the cuticle pusher, you can gently clean the nail plate with a nail e-drill and cuticle drill bits. Important: Always ensure you have received the relevant training before using the e-drill, and use the correct settings to avoid any damage to the nail. E-drills are powerful tools, and incorrect use can lead to injury or nail damage.

✅ Buff the Nail Plate Lightly: Gently buff the nail to remove any shine. This helps the gel polish bond better to the nail. Be careful not to over-buff, as it can weaken the nail surface.

✅ Use a Dehydrator: A nail dehydrator removes any remaining moisture, ensuring that the nail surface is completely dry before applying gel polish.

2. Apply a Thin Layer of Base Coat

A high-quality base coat is essential for good gel adhesion. Apply a thin, even layer to the entire nail, ensuring you cover the free edge (the tip of the nail) to help seal the polish. Cure the base coat fully under the UV/LED lamp before applying colour.

3. Don't Overload the Nails with Gel

It’s tempting to apply thick layers of gel polish, but this can lead to lifting. Apply thin layers of gel polish, and make sure each layer is fully cured before applying the next. Thick layers of gel take longer to cure, which can result in uncured gel under the surface that may cause it to lift.

4. Cure the Gel Polish Correctly

Make sure that each layer of gel polish is properly cured under the UV/LED lamp for the recommended time. Under-curing is a common cause of lifting, as the gel remains soft and prone to damage. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for curing times and lamp requirements.

5. Seal the Edges of the Nails

One of the most effective ways to prevent gel polish from lifting is to seal the edges of the nails. Make sure to wrap the gel around the tips of the nails and cure it properly. This prevents the gel from peeling or lifting at the edges, which is often the first place that chipping occurs.

6. Apply a High-Quality Top Coat

A good top coat adds a layer of protection to the gel polish, preventing it from chipping or peeling. Apply a thin layer of top coat over the gel polish, covering the entire nail and edges. Cure the top coat fully under the UV/LED lamp.

7. Educate Clients on Aftercare

Once the gel polish is applied, it’s important to educate your clients on aftercare to ensure their nails stay in good condition. Here are a few tips you can share with them:

• Avoid using nails as tools: Remind your clients not to use their nails to open cans, scratch surfaces, or pick at things, as this can cause the gel to lift.

• Moisturise regularly: Encourage your clients to moisturise their nails and cuticles daily to keep them healthy and hydrated. Dry nails are more likely to cause lifting.

• Protect nails from harsh chemicals: Suggest that your clients wear gloves when cleaning or handling harsh chemicals to prevent damage to the gel.

8. Reapply Gel Polish When Necessary

Gel polish naturally starts to show wear over time, especially at the edges. Encourage clients to come in for regular touch-ups and to reapply gel polish when it begins to show signs of wear or growth.

By following these steps, you can prevent gel polish from lifting or peeling off, ensuring that your clients leave with nails that look fabulous and last longer. Remember, proper nail prep, the right products, and correct curing are all essential factors in achieving the perfect, long-lasting gel manicure.