A: The key to a long-lasting gel manicure lies in proper prep and application. If the polish starts lifting or peeling early, it could be due to insufficient nail prep, thick application, or improper curing. Here's how you can solve it:
Nail Prep: Always start by cleaning the nails with a nail cleanser to remove oils and dirt. This ensures that the gel bonds properly. Lightly buff the nail surface to create a slightly rough texture for better adhesion.
Thin Layers: Apply gel polish in thin layers. Thick layers can cause uneven curing and result in lifting. It's much better to apply multiple thin coats and cure thoroughly after each layer.
Curing Time: Make sure you're using a quality UV/LED lamp and that you're curing each layer for the recommended time. If you don’t cure the gel long enough, it can remain soft and prone to peeling.
Q: What are the most common mistakes nail technicians make when applying gel polish?
A: Here are a few common mistakes that can affect the longevity and appearance of a gel manicure:
Skipping Base Coat: Some technicians skip the base coat, thinking it’s unnecessary, but this is a big mistake. The base coat is essential for adhesion, and skipping it will cause the gel to lift.
Not Capping the Free Edge: Failing to cap the free edge of the nail (the tip) can result in premature chipping. Always ensure the gel polish fully covers the free edge to form a seal.
Over-Curing or Under-Curing: If you don’t cure each layer of gel properly, your manicure could fail to set properly. Use the correct lamp and follow the instructions to avoid both over-curing and under-curing.
Q: What can I do to make sure my clients’ nails stay healthy after a gel manicure?
A: Healthy nails are essential, especially when using gel products regularly. Here’s how you can keep your clients’ nails in good condition:
Cuticle Care: Recommend your clients apply cuticle oil regularly to keep their nails and skin moisturised. This is especially important after the gel is removed, as it helps restore moisture to the nail beds.
Proper Removal: Never peel off the gel polish! This can damage the natural nail. Always use a gel remover and carefully remove the product to avoid lifting the top layer of the natural nail.
Hydration: Encourage clients to drink plenty of water and apply moisturiser to their hands and nails to keep them hydrated. A well-moisturised nail is more resistant to chips and cracks.
Q: How do I fix a gel polish that has chipped or cracked?
A: If a gel manicure starts to chip or crack, you can easily fix it without redoing the whole manicure. Here's what you need to do:
File and Smooth: First, file the damaged area to smooth out the edges. This will make the repair less noticeable.
Reapply Gel: After filing, clean the area with a nail cleanser, and then reapply a thin layer of gel over the damaged part. Cure under the lamp, and finish with a fresh top coat to seal the nail and restore its glossy finish.
Tip: For clients with heavy-handed jobs, advise them to take extra care with their nails and use a strengthening base coat for added protection.
Q: What are the best gel polish colours for different seasons?
A: Choosing the right colours for your clients’ gel manicures can elevate the overall look. Here’s what’s trending:
Spring/Summer: Soft pastels, light pinks, and nudes are popular in spring. Bright, bold colours like coral, turquoise, or neon shades are perfect for summer.
Autumn/Winter: Rich, deep shades like burgundy, plum, or dark blue are perfect for autumn. Winter brings out the love for metallics, golds, and silvers, as well as darker tones like deep red and emerald green.
Final Tip: Always Personalise! Every client has different tastes and preferences, so always listen to what they want and offer recommendations based on their lifestyle and nail health. Personalisation is what keeps clients coming back for more!
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