Having a fresh coat of gel nail polish can make you feel confident and put together. But imagine the frustration when your freshly done manicure starts to peel off after a few days. This not only ruins your flawless look but is also a sheer waste of your time and money.
In this blog post, I will discuss the most common causes of gel nail polish peeling off and how to avoid it. This information helps you achieve beautiful, long-lasting nails.
Understanding Gel Nail Polish and How It Works
Before we dive into the causes of peeling gel polish, it’s essential to understand what gel nail polish is and how it works.
Gel polish is a type of nail polish applied in several thin layers, each cured and hardened under a UV or LED lamp. This curing process forms a hard, acrylic-like coating that adheres to the nail surface, offering a long-lasting manicure.
Now, look at the 7 most common causes of gel nail polish peeling off.
To learn more about the longevity of gel nail polish, check out our article on how long gel nail polish last.
What Are the Common Causes of Gel Nail Polish Peeling Off?
1. Incorrect Curing Time
One of the most common causes of polish from peeling is incorrect curing time. Every gel polish has a specific curing time, depending on its brand and color.
If the curing time is incorrect, the top layer of the gel polish may not adhere to the nail, causing it to peel off.
To avoid this, always follow the instructions for your gel polish and use a timer to ensure the correct curing time.
2. Poor Nail Preparation
Proper nail preparation is crucial for a long-lasting gel manicure. Before applying any gel polish, you must ensure your nails are clean, dry, and free of oils and debris.
Use a nail file to shape and buff your nails, then wipe them clean with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any natural oils on their surface.
Avoid soaking your nails for an extended time before applying the polish, as this can cause the polish to lift and peel off.
3. Applying the Polish Incorrectly
Applying the gel polish or curing it for more than the recommended time may also cause the polish to peel off.
Always apply the polish in thin, even coats, keeping the polish at least a millimeter away from your cuticles.
Curing too long can cause the polish to shrink or crack, leading to peeling.
4. Using the Wrong Lamp
Different brands and types of gel polish require specific types of lamps to cure correctly.
Using the wrong lamp can weaken the adhesion between the nail and the gel polish, causing it to peel off more.
Always use the recommended LED or UV lamp for the brand of gel polish you’re using.
5. Excess Nail Length
Long nails can be prone to chipping and tearing, which can weaken the bond between the gel polish and the nails.
It’s always best to keep your nails at a comfortable length to reduce the risk of peeling.
6. Picking or Peeling the Polish
Picking or peeling at your gel nail polish is perhaps one of the most common causes of peeling.
Not only does this damage your natural nails’ surface, but it can also cause the gel polish to peel off, damaging the beautiful manicure you worked so hard to achieve.
Always remove your polish correctly and avoid touching your nails when you’re bored.
7. Lack of Maintenance
Neglecting your manicure is another common cause of gel polish peeling off.
Applying cuticle oil and keeping your nails hydrated can help prevent peeling, and using a good-quality topcoat or sealant can add an extra layer of protection.
Experiencing a similar problem with your poly gel nails? You might find our article why do my poly gel nails pop off helpful.
How to Fix Peeling Gel Nail Polish: Step-by-Step Guide
If your gel nail polish starts to peel, it’s vital to remove it to prevent further peeling and damage to your natural nails’ surface.
If you are looking for an alternative method of removing gel nail polish. You can follow our step-by-step guide on how to remove gel nail polish with sugar.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fix peeling gel nail polish:
Step 1: Gather the Required Material
Before you begin, you’ll need the following materials:
*Acetone
*Cotton balls or pads
*Nail file
*Buffer
Step 2: Soak the Nails in Acetone
Soak a cotton ball or pad in acetone and hold it on your nail for three to five minutes. This will soften the polish, making it easier to remove without damaging your nails.
Step 3: Remove the Polish
After soaking your nails, remove the cotton ball or pad, and gently wipe off the polish with a soft cloth or paper towel.
If the polish is stubborn and doesn’t come off easily, use a wooden cuticle pusher to scrape it off gently.
Step 4: Clean and Dry Your Nails
Once you’ve removed the polish, clean your nails with a nail brush, wash them with soap and warm water, and dry them with a towel.
Use a nail file to shape your nails how you want them and to even out any rough patches or edges.
Step 5: Buff Your Nails
Take a buffer and buff the surface of your nails to smooth them out and remove any remaining gel polish.
Be careful not to over-buff your nails, as this can weaken them and cause them to peel more quickly.
Step 6: Apply Cuticle Oil
Apply cuticle oil generously to your nails and massage it into your cuticles. This will help to moisturize and nourish your nails, preventing them from becoming dry and brittle.
Step 7: Wait for Your Nails to Heal
Wait for your nails to heal and grow out for a few days before applying new gel nail polish to prevent them from further damage. During this time, keep your nails well-hydrated and moisturized.
Gel Nail Polish Peeling Off: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions people ask about gel nail polish peeling off:
Q: Why is my gel nail polish peeling off after 1 day?
A: Gel nail polish peeling off after a day can be due to various reasons such as incorrect curing time, poor nail preparation, or applying the polish incorrectly.
Q: Why does my gel polish peel off in one day?
A: Gel polish peeling off in one day can be due to poor nail preparation, incorrect curing time, or applying the polish too thinly or unevenly.
For more details on these causes and how to prevent them, please refer to the section on common causes of gel nail polish peeling off.
Q: Why is my gel polish peeling after 2 days?
A: Gel polish peeling after two days can be due to various factors such as using the wrong lamp, picking or peeling at the polish, or excess nail length.
Q: Can you overcure gel polish?
A: Yes, over-curing gel polish can cause the polish to shrink or crack, which can weaken the bond between the polish and the nails, leading to peeling.
It’s important to follow the recommended curing time for your gel polish and use a timer to ensure proper curing.
Conclusion: Maintaining Long-Lasting Gel Polish
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy longer-lasting gel nail polish without the fear of it peeling off prematurely.
If you follow the tips mentioned in this blog post. You’ll be able to keep your gel manicure looking beautiful and intact for weeks.
Maya serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Beauty section of HealthMagazineLab.com, bringing decades of industry expertise to uphold standards of accuracy and reliability for the publication’s millions of monthly readers seeking the latest beauty insights.