Are you tired of having your beautiful manicure ruined by chipping and peeling within a matter of days? You are not alone! Between constant hand washing and sanitizing, it can be a real challenge to maintain that polished look.
Whether you are doing your DIY manicure or getting it done professionally, you want to ensure that your hard work lasts as long as possible. Luckily, some tried-and-true tips can help you achieve just that. From using the right products to taking extra precautions, making your manicure last longer is achievable.
The best part is that you don’t need to spend a fortune or be a nail expert to make it happen. So, what exactly can you do to ensure that your manicure stays intact for a week or more? We will discuss the same thing in this article to help you explore some practical solutions that prevent nail polish from smudging or chipping.
1. Start with Clean, Dry Nails
Starting with clean, dry nails is crucial to ensure your manicure lasts as long as possible. To achieve this, begin by wiping your nails down with nail polish remover to eliminate any natural oils that could hinder the adherence of your nail polish.
You may be accustomed to soaking your nails at the salon, but avoiding this step when doing your manicure at home is best. Soaking causes your nails to expand, and the polish can crack when they dry and shrink.
2. Use a Base Coat
The base coat is an essential step that many people skip, but it is just as important as the topcoat. A high-quality, nourishing basecoat not only strengthens and protects your nails from stains but also ensures a smoother nail polish application and extends the life of your manicure. So, don’t overlook this crucial step to achieve a long-lasting and beautiful manicure.
3. Apply Thin, Even Coats
When it comes to applying nail polish, less is more. Apply 1-2 coats of colour for optimal results and prevent chipping. For gel polish, ensure each coat is applied thinly and appropriately cured under the light. Use the best nail polish for better results, and avoid choosing a colour that requires multiple coats.
4. Wrap the Tips
Remember to use the brush to wrap the polish around the tips of your nails to ensure your manicure looks perfect. This simple step helps to create a seal at the edges of your nails, preventing the polish from chipping or peeling off prematurely. It is an easy technique that can make a big difference in the longevity of your manicure, so don’t skip it!
5. Wait for Each Coat to Dry Completely
To ensure a long-lasting and smudge-free manicure, allow each coat of polish to dry completely before applying the next. You can speed up the drying process using cool air to dry your nails.
A blow dryer on the cool setting or a fan can help. Alternatively, dip your fingertips in ice water for a minute or two to speed up the process. Remember, even if your nails feel dry to the touch, they are not fully set for nearly an hour after application. So, be patient and avoid touching anything until your nails are completely dry.
6. Avoid Hot Water and Steam
Avoid hot water to make your manicure last longer, as it can lift and peel your polish. This includes hot water in the shower, washing dishes, or bathing. You can still enjoy a bath, but keep your nails out of the water.
Surprisingly, it can take up to 12 hours for your nails to dry fully. Avoid adding excess heat during this time, which can cause chipping.
7. Use Gloves for Chores
Don’t let household chores ruin your manicure! Protect your polish by wearing gloves while doing the dishes, cleaning the bathroom, or doing any other household tasks that involve harsh chemicals or water.
Gloves not only keep your hands and nails looking great but also protect your skin from harsh chemicals that can cause irritation or dryness.
8. Moisturize Your Cuticles
Dry and cracked cuticles can lead to painful hangnails and infections. So, moisturize!
A simple way is to apply cuticle oil or cream daily before bed. This will help to keep them soft and prevent them from drying out.
9. Don’t Pick or Peel Your Polish
Picking and peeling your nail polish is a common habit, but it can cause damage to your nails and ruin your manicure. It takes off the polish and can peel off the top layer of your nails and leave them weak and susceptible to breakage.
If you can’t resist the urge, try keeping your hands busy with something else, like fidget toys or stress balls. A little self-control can go a long way in preserving your polished look.
Remember, taking care of your nails is essential to your overall self-care routine. Don’t forget to remove oils and build-up before applying polish, wrap the polish around the tips of your nails, and let each coat dry completely before applying the next. Use gloves for chores, moisturize your cuticles, and whatever you do, resist the urge to pick or peel your polish. By following these simple tips, you will be able to rock a flawless manicure every time.
Now, go ahead, pamper yourself, and show off those beautiful nails. Make sure to check out tira for manicure sets to elevate your at-home nail care routine. These sets include everything you need to maintain your nails. You can also discover expert tips and tricks on our blog for salon-worthy advice.