The Ultimate Gel Manicure Aftercare

A gel manicure is a beautiful investment, and with the right care, you can make it last. Follow these simple steps to protect your manicure and keep your nails strong and healthy until your next appointment.

1. Avoid Hot Water Immediately After

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For the first 24 hours, avoid prolonged exposure to hot water, such as long, hot showers or baths. While the gel is cured, a sudden change in temperature can sometimes affect its adhesion and make it more prone to lifting.

2. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

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Keeping your cuticles and the skin around your nails hydrated is a game-changer. Use a high-quality cuticle oil daily to nourish the nail bed, prevent dryness, and keep your manicure looking fresh. This also helps your natural nails stay strong underneath the gel.

3. Don't Peel or Pick!

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This is the most important rule. Peeling or picking off a gel manicure might seem easy, but it removes layers of your natural nail along with the polish. This causes significant damage, leading to thin, weak, and brittle nails. Always get a professional to remove your gel for the health of your nails.

4. Wear Gloves for Chores

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Household chemicals, from dish soap to cleaning sprays, can be incredibly harsh on your gel manicure and natural nails. Wearing gloves when doing dishes, cleaning, or gardening creates a barrier that protects both your manicure and your skin.

5. Use Your Nails as Jewels, Not Tools

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Resist the temptation to use your nails to open cans, scrape off labels, or pry things open. This can cause chips, cracks, and damage the natural nail underneath. Treat your gel manicure like the delicate accessory it is!

6. Avoid Acetone-Based Products

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While you may need acetone for gel removal, contact with it between appointments can weaken the bond of the gel. Be mindful of products like certain hand sanitizers or household cleaners that contain acetone and can cause your manicure to lift or lose its shine.

7. Get Regular Fills or Removals

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Over time, as your natural nails grow, the gel manicure can become unbalanced. This puts stress on the natural nail and can lead to damage. Make sure to schedule regular appointments for fills or professional removal to keep your nails strong and healthy.

8. Use a Top Coat for Extra Shine

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If your gel manicure starts to lose its luster after a week or two, you can revive its shine with a regular, non-gel top coat. Apply a thin layer every few days to protect the gel from scratches and to maintain that glossy, fresh-from-the-salon look.