Gel manicures are often praised for their durability and extended life span, with some experts noting that gel polish can make a manicure last two times as long as ordinary polish. Unfortunately, however, there are many pitfalls and mistakes that could diminish that polish life span. If you often find that your gel manicure doesn’t last as long as you think it should, chances are that you may be making one of these common mistakes.
Did You Forget the Cuticle Oil?
If you’re not using cuticle oil with your gel manicure, you’re making a huge mistake. That oil can help to combat preventable dryness and keep your nails in a healthier state. Remember, gel polish can make your nails stronger and less flexible, so it’s important to keep the cuticles hydrated to help prevent any potential weakness that could lead to a break.
Do You Wear Gel Polish Continually?
Gel manicures look and feel so great that it’s tempting to wear them continually. Many women reach the end of one gel manicure’s life cycle and replace that polish with even more gel polish. Sadly, your nails just don’t appreciate that approach. The application and removal processes are harsh for your nails, so overuse of gel can lead to hydration, breakage, and a host of other problems. To avoid those issues and ensure that your nails remain healthy enough to wear gel polish, it’s important to rely on nail artists who can properly evaluate them before the manicure. Your best bet is to wait a week or two between gel manicures.
Are You Using Your Nails as Tools?
Does your gel polish chip or flake prematurely? A good manicure should be free from such worries. In most instances where that sort of damage occurs, there’s usually some bad habit in play. For example, women who use their hands for any number of household or work-related tasks often experience this type of problem. The best way to avoid it is to consciously protect your hands whenever you’re using them. Don’t open bottle with your fingernails. Wear gloves when you’re working in the garden, doing dishes, or performing similar tasks. Remember, your nails are not tools.
Do You Remove the Polish on Schedule?
You know that your gel manicure can last for two or three weeks. If you’re like many women, however, you may be tempted to stretch that life span for another week or two – especially if your manicure still looks perfect at the end of that time. Don’t do it. The experts tell us that wearing gel polish for too long can weaken your nails, damage the cuticles, and harm the nail beds. It could even allow bacteria to get to the nail, as the gel starts to lift.
When you choose the best gel manicure service in Fort Lauderdale, you expect your nails to look good for several weeks after your appointment. By focusing on avoiding these and other common mistakes, you can increase your odds of being able to enjoy the perfect nails you deserve.
