Having a fresh manicure is the best feeling in the world. You feel refreshed and ready for anything that comes your way. However, even with an expert nail technician at your disposal, keeping your manicure in pristine condition for more than a few days can prove to be a tedious task. Chipped nails are just outright awful. After all, who would want to paint their nails knowing that it’s going to chip away a couple of days later? Let’s take a look at the 10 reasons why your manicure never lasts.
1. You Wash Your Hands Pre-Manicure
Washing your hands in water can lead to the nails retaining moisture and expanding. Thus, after the manicure, the nails become dehydrated which causes their shrinkage. This means that your nail polish no longer fits your nails and can chip easily. It’s best to keep your hands as dry as possible pre-manicure.
2. You Love Using Sanitizers
Being germ-free is one thing, but overusing sanitizers can break your dream of a long-lasting manicure. Sanitizers contain alcohol which dries out the nails and nail polish, making them chip-ready and dull. An alternative would be to use mild hand soap and warm water to go germ-free.
3. Your Nails Aren’t Hydrated
Like your skin, even your nails can crack and peel when there isn’t enough moisture. It is important to hydrate your nails properly in order for them to look fresh. Use a nail oil to prevent your enamel from dehydrating and the nail polish separating.
4. You Don't Use Gloves While Washing Dishes
Gloves not only protect your hands but also prevent your manicure from chipping. Washing the dishes without gloves can lead to the water and soap drying out your manicure. Drying out means dull looking and chipped nails. So, we recommend that you invest in a good pair of gloves.
5. Your Hands Are Exposed To Heat
If you never knew this, put it into your mind now. It takes around 12 hours for your manicure to fully dry. When your hands are exposed to excess heat within this timeframe, they are more likely to smudge and chip.
6. Your Diet Doesn’t Contain Enough Nutrients
A lacking diet and genes can affect your nails like any other body part. If you want to strengthen your nails, boost their growth, and avoid them from turning brittle, it is crucial that you consume enough protein and biotin supplements. You also need to drink a lot of water to keep both your cuticles and nails hydrated as well.
7. You Rock An Active Lifestyle
If you live a really active lifestyle where you hit the gym, and the ground frequently, there is nothing much you can do about making your manicure last. However, you could still choose for a nude shade or a clear gloss that would minimize the chips and notches. In case you are looking to show off, add in a couple of coats of glitter and anything shiny.
8. You Blow Your Nails Dry
It's just human nature to blow on our nails immediately after getting a manicure done. But, believe me, it's the worst thing you could do. As stated earlier, nail polishes are sensitive to heat and moisture. Thus, you need to opt for a cool fan and get your manicure done in a cool setting. Remember to store your nail polishes in a dry and dark place.
9. Your Nail Beds Are Too Oily
You might have heard of oily skin on face, but oily nail beds exist as well. Oily nail beds can cause chips at the bottom of the nail plate. You can add a ridge filler or nail strengthener to your everyday regimen to keep your nails in great shape.
10. Your Salon Might Not Be The Right Fit
Obviously, getting your manicure done in a corner salon would prove to be cheap and quick. But, it can also affect the quality of your manicure. Inexpensive salons often bring in poor quality ingredients which can wreak havoc on your nails. In this case, it is always best to find a new go-to salon.
Hope you enjoyed these tips. Now, let’s wave hello to gorgeous nails!
