While light-cured gel polish has changed the game for manicure longevity, it isn’t for everyone. From health concerns over home kits and UV light, to drying out nails and even just the cost of visiting the salon, sometimes a classic polish is preferable. Then there’s battling to strengthen your nails after one too many manis. Nail health has spawned a whole new beauty category.
But what can you do to keep classic nail polish from chipping and flaking prematurely?
Well, lots of things actually. Follow these tips to help your polish stay in place and get more days out of a beautifully finished set.
Preparation
Clean nails thoroughly: Start by removing any old polish and cleaning your nails with a nail polish remover that doesn’t contain oils, as oils can prevent the new polish from adhering properly. Wash your hands afterward to remove any residue.
Shape and buff: File your nails to your desired shape and lightly buff the surface of your nails. This creates a smooth surface for the polish to adhere to.
Push back cuticles: Gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher. Avoid cutting them as this can lead to infection and uneven polish application.
Dehydrate the nails: Wipe your nails with a bit of rubbing alcohol or nail dehydrator. This step removes any remaining oils and moisture from the nail surface.
Application
Base coat: Apply a thin layer of a good-quality base coat. This helps the polish stick better to your nails and prevents staining. Allow it to dry completely.
Thin layers: Apply your nail polish in thin layers. Thick layers take longer to dry and are more prone to chipping. Start with a single thin coat and let it dry completely before applying a second coat.
Cap the edges: When applying each layer of polish, run the brush along the edge of your nail (the tip) to “cap” it. This helps seal the polish and prevents chipping at the tips.
Top coat: Finish with a high-quality, long-lasting top coat. As with the way you applied the polish, apply this in a thin layer and cap the edges. A top coat not only adds shine but also protects the color from chipping and fading.
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Afterwards
Drying: Allow ample time for your nails to dry. Avoid using your hands for at least an hour after applying the top coat to prevent smudging or denting.
Reapply top coat: To extend the life of your manicure, reapply a thin layer of top coat every two to three days.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Wear gloves when doing household duties or when your hands will be exposed to water and harsh chemicals, as these can cause your polish to chip and peel.
Moisturise your cuticles: Keep your cuticles and hands moisturised by regularly applying cuticle oil and hand lotion. Dry skin can lead to peeling and chipping.
Be gentle: Avoid using your nails as tools. For example, don’t use them to open cans or scrape off stickers.
