A long-wear gel manicure is mostly about smart prep and daily habits. Use these quick, proven tips to keep your gel glossy and chip-resistant for weeks.
Right after service
Avoid hot water for a few hours. Apply cuticle oil daily to keep the nail plate flexible and the finish looking fresh.
Daily habits
Wear gloves for cleaning, gardening, or dishwashing. Avoid using nails as tools—push with fingertips instead. Keep hands moisturized; dry skin encourages lifting at sidewalls.
If you see lifting
Don’t pick. File the lifted edge smooth, apply cuticle oil, and book a fix—or re-seal with a thin layer of Top Gel if you’re experienced and have a lamp.
Color protection
Limit exposure to hair dye, self-tanner, and harsh solvents. Wipe stains with alcohol, not acetone.
Maintenance schedule
Short, practical lengths last longest (short square/almond). Plan infills or complete refresh every 2–3 weeks depending on growth.
Removal matters
Never peel. Break the top-coat seal, soak with acetone-dampened cotton for 10–15 minutes, then nudge off softened gel and re-hydrate with oil.
Pro routine refresher
Prep thoroughly → thin Base Gel → 1–2 thin Color Gel coats → Top Gel, capping the free edge and curing to lamp specs. PinkLotta’s smooth-apply system is optimized for thin, even layers and lasting shine.
