Why an at-home manicure often lasts longer than a salon one

A gel set does not fail because of the polish. It fails because of prep — and prep is exactly what gets rushed in a busy salon.

Prep is everything Cuticle work, dehydrating the nail plate and a thin base coat decide whether your set lasts one week or three. At home, your technician is working with one client, not three chairs at once.

Curing properly Thin layers, fully cured, every time. Ask your tech to cure each hand separately if your lamp is small — thick single coats are the most common cause of lifting.

What to have ready - A table at a comfortable height and good light. - A power outlet within reach for the lamp. - Clean, dry hands — no lotion on the day.

Between appointments Cuticle oil daily, gloves for cleaning, and never peel a lifting edge. Book your removal with a professional; ripping off gel takes layers of your natural nail with it.