Why does gel polish peel off?

5 Reasons why gel polish peels off

Are you wondering why your gel manicure doesn’t last as long as it should? There could be several reasons, often caused by minor mistakes during the application or improper nail prep. It's worth taking a closer look so you can enjoy beautiful and long-lasting gel nails for many days. Here are the most common reasons why gel polish peels off:

1. Poor nail prep for a gel manicure
   Before starting your gel manicure, you must properly prepare your nails. Skipping this step can cause your gel polish to lift or peel quickly.
   How to prep your nails? Start by removing any oils and impurities. Use a nail cleanser to degrease the nail plate and eliminate any oil or moisture. The next step is buffing the nails to give the gel polish better adhesion.
   
   
2. Applying too thick layers of gel polish
   When applying gel polish, patience and precision are key to ensuring long-lasting results. A layer that is too thick may not cure properly under the lamp, leading to air bubbles, wrinkling, and an increased risk of chipping and peeling. Thin and even coats provide better adhesion, a smooth finish, and longer-lasting wear.
   Apply thin layers of gel polish, making sure to cure each one thoroughly. A thick layer won't cure evenly and will wear off faster.
   
   
3. Incorrect curing under UV/LED lamp
   To achieve a long-lasting gel manicure, each layer must be properly cured under a UV or LED lamp. Proper curing prevents chipping, wrinkling, and peeling. The curing time depends on the lamp's power.
   If your nail lamp isn’t fully curing the gel polish, check its power and timing. Remember, curing for too short a time can lead to peeling and damage.
   
   
4. Nails that are too long
   Long gel nails may look stunning, but they are more prone to breakage and damage. The longer the nail, the higher the chance of cracks or chips during daily activities. Long nails can also lose gel polish adhesion faster, reducing the manicure’s durability.
   
   
5. Poor diet
   A lack of vitamins, minerals, or protein can make your nails brittle, weak, and more prone to breaking, making it harder for gel polish to adhere properly. A weakened nail plate is more likely to chip, causing your manicure to lift or peel. To prevent this, ensure your diet includes essential nutrients. Vitamins A and E strengthen nails and protect against free radicals, biotin (vitamin B7) improves nail flexibility and hardness, and zinc supports nail regeneration and promotes growth.

Strengthening your nails before applying gel polish

Strengthening your nails before applying gel polish is a crucial step that helps extend the manicure’s durability and reduces the risk of nail breakage.

Make sure to strengthen your nails before applying gel polish. How? Simply use nail treatments, hardening polishes, or nail serums before starting your manicure.

Nail treatments enriched with keratin or calcium can help strengthen your nails and improve their condition. Hardening polishes create a protective layer that boosts gel polish adhesion. Nail serums prevent dryness, reducing the risk of peeling.

Remember that strengthened nails handle gel polish application better.

Long-lasting gel manicure –What products to choose?

To achieve a durable and beautiful gel manicure, you need the right products. Here are some essentials:

1. Gel polish

The gel polish you choose greatly impacts the quality and longevity of your manicure. Only high-quality gel polish will give you smooth, even coverage and resistance to chipping.

2. Gel base coat

The base coat is the first step in applying gel nails. A well-chosen gel base ensures perfect adhesion between the polish and the nail plate, preventing lifting and chipping.

3. Gel Top Coat

The top coat adds shine and extra protection to your gel manicure. A properly applied top coat secures the color, prevents scratches, and seals the finish.

4. Gel manicure accessories

Files, buffers, and lint-free wipes will help with the precise application and maintenance of your gel manicure. Choose accessories specifically designed for gel nails to avoid damaging the nail plate.

5. Gel polish removers

Use specialized gel polish removers that effectively remove polish without damaging the natural nail.

 Don’t forget regular hand and nail care. Keep your cuticles hydrated, use nail treatments, and protect your nails from damage. This is the key to a long-lasting and beautiful gel manicure. The right products and careful application will give you the best results. At Silcare, you'll find everything you need – from gel polishes to professional accessories. Check out our range and enjoy gorgeous nails! Now you know how to create a durable gel manicure! At Silcare, you'll find the perfect kits tailored to your needs!