When struck with a downcast gloom, there are several things that can help chase those clouds away. Perhaps it’s going for your favourite fitness class, sweating the blues away, or it might be getting your go-to menu item for dinner that night. In the beauty realm, getting a gel manicure does the trick. It’s a blank canvas for your artistic side to run wild, and a subtle form of expression that’s a surefire confidence booster.
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Its long-lasting wear is also a definite perk, withstanding through the day’s hustle and bustle for weeks at a time. Getting through rigorous activities and tiresome chores becomes a breeze with a gel manicure on your hands. But in exchange, it does come at a cost—with damaged nails post-gel removal, often reduced to being dry, brittle and prone to breaking. All protection is stripped off and we often neglect to maintain cuticle health, going through stages of regrowing to regain strength. Once deemed back to its optimised state, we return to our favourite nail artist for another darling gel set, and the cycle continues.
But not all hope is lost. Vogue Singapore speaks to two nail experts on how to care for your cuticles post-gel removal. Here, Felicia Widjaya of Nails By Fels and Qquirky Nail’s Christer Kang break down practical steps on maintaining nail strength, and things to take note of the next time you visit the nail parlour for a trusty gel manicure.
How long should you keep your gel manicure on for?
Gel manicures should ideally be kept on for around two to three weeks, maximum four before requiring removal in order to prevent damage to your natural nails. “Any longer would cause the nails to be more prone to breaking due to the wear and tear from the past weeks”, advises Widjaya.
How long should we wait before applying gel again after removal?
Kang recommends taking a break for at least a few days in between gel manicures as this gives your natural nails time to breathe and recuperate. However, with proper gel removal and overlay application, regular gel manicures can actually aid in strengthening your nails.
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Is it advisable to remove gel nails on your own?
Yes, with the help of proper tools and caution. Though it’s generally advised to have them removed professionally to prevent damage, some don’t have the luxury of time to do so. Widjaya suggests getting nail enhancements after removal, as the cuticles tend to get thinner after. If your manicure does not have an overlay or structured gel, Kang instructs to remove them with acetone and gentle removal tools should you choose to remove them yourself.
What are the dos and don’ts when having a gel manicure?
Start off by applying sunscreen on your hands before getting your nails done, in order to protect them from UV light exposure during the curing process. Moisturise daily to avoid hang nails and keep them hydrated. A cuticle oil like Jinsoon’s Primrose & Honeysuckle Healing Cuticle Oil delivers instant nourishment to the cuticles, while Aesop’s Rejuvenate Intensive Body Balm will leave your hands soothed and enhanced with moisture. And while it may be tempting, Kang and Widjaya warn against using your nails as tools, as too much pressure will cause lifting and chipping, leading to breakage.
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What is a nail artist’s proper procedure when applying a gel manicure?
The key to a healthy and lasting manicure boils down to the preparation pre-gel application. Kang notes a good foundation involves gently buffing the surface and pushing back the cuticles, and applying the gel polish in thin and even layers to prevent a thick buildup. Avoid getting the polish on the skin as much as possible, as this may irritate your skin. The usage of high-quality products and proper curing techniques are vital as well, ensuring longevity and minimal damage. Widjaya suggests adding an overlay to prevent bends and breaks.
Any tips and advice on how to prevent brittle nails?
Brittle nails mainly stem from improper removal as a layer of the nail gets stripped off together with the polish, Widjaya explains. Aside from professional removal, applying a nail strengthener or serum containing ingredients like biotin and keratin gets you a step closer to healthy nails. Kang also advises avoiding contact with harsh chemicals and detergents, and to wear gloves while doing household chores. Consider biotin or calcium supplements in your balanced diet as well, as Kang informs those are essential for nail health.
What does a good cuticle care routine look like?
Creating a cuticle care routine for healthy nails involves simply yet effective steps. Start by gently pushing your cuticles once they’ve softened in the shower. However, avoid trimming cuticles on your own as this increases chances of infection and damage. End with moisturising your nails at least once a day, using cuticle oils and hand creams to boost hydration.
