When paying for a beauty service, you expect high-quality standards and value for your money. Beauty lovers tend to choose a gel polish manicure to achieve a natural, clean, and long-lasting finish, as your nails are one of the first things people notice.
However, there are a few top tips to help maintain your gel manicure and keep it looking fresh.
Cuticle oil’s benefit
There are many benefits to using cuticle oil. It’s a moisturising product that increases the circulation around your nails, protecting them and stimulating growth. Without it, your nails can become weak, dull, and prone to breakage.
It can also help improve your nails’ overall health and appearance. Once you’ve painted your nails, the oil can protect your gel nail polish, providing a long-lasting shine. It’s recommended that cuticle oil should be applied at least once every day.
Avoid over-exposure to hot water
Hot water can affect your manicure by seeping into your nail beds and causing the polish to lift and peel. Try to minimise contact with hot water where possible.
For instance, when washing pots, use rubber gloves to prevent exposure. This can help prolong your manicure’s life and protect the polish.
File your tips
Some people may not be aware, but you can still file your nails after you’ve had your gel polish manicure. It’s a great way to refresh your nails and keep them in tip-top condition.
File your tips to achieve your desired shape and apply a layer of topcoat afterwards for desired shine.

Be mindful when using your nails
It’s important to be careful when going about your everyday tasks with a fresh gel manicure. Be mindful and gentle with everything you’re doing that involves your hands. The slightest chip in your nail could lead to the entire layer of polish peeling.
For instance, avoid tearing open packages or removing sticky labels with your nails. Instead, use scissors to open boxes or use a sharp tool to lift labels.
Avoid picking the polish
Try to avoid picking your nail polish. It’s a common habit and can be a coping mechanism for anxiety. It’s best to resist the temptation to ensure your manicure always looks fresh and even.
Plus, if you try to remove your polish by picking at it, this could cause damage to your natural nails, leaving them thin, brittle and flaky.
Avoid solvent products
Solvents have dissolving properties that can easily remove your gel polish if exposed. Solvents can be found in many everyday beauty and tanning products, so be careful when using these following your manicure.
A professional gel polish manicure’s novelty is its ability to look great for weeks after application. Ensuring that the correct care procedures are followed, the gel polish will look fresher for longer whilst strengthening the nail and nail bed for future manicures!
