Discovering a tiny chip in your freshly-done manicure can be quite a disheartening experience. While it's not the most catastrophic mishap, especially when you've invested in a long-lasting manicure, it's only fair to expect the quality you paid for. Although wear and tear over time is unavoidable with shellac nails, there are some simple strategies to maximize the lifespan of a single application.

1. Be Patient During Drying

We all lead busy lives, often struggling to find time for a shellac appointment. Despite the quick application, the temptation to rush the drying phase can be strong. You might assume that your nails are completely dry just because they feel touchable, but we recommend giving the UV light enough time to dry all the way through to the base layer.

2. Protect Yourself

Maintaining a beautiful set of nails doesn't mean you can avoid household chores like doing the dishes or weeding the garden. Before subjecting your hands to extreme temperatures by immersing them in hot or cold water, don a pair of rubber gloves. This will not only protect your skin and nails from drying out and becoming brittle but also shield the shellac from potentially damaging chemicals and detergents.

3. Keep Your Nails Moisturized

This advice isn't exclusive to post-manicure care; it's crucial for daily life. Consistently moisturizing your skin and nails helps protect and nourish them. Pay special attention to the skin around your nails to prevent flaking and dry cuticles. Before bedtime, apply a drop of cuticle oil to the base of your nail beds and gently massage your skin. This nighttime routine will keep your nails hydrated as you sleep, providing long-lasting protection.

4. Shield Your Nails from Sunlight

One of the reasons we adore shellac is its vibrant and rich color palette. The last thing you want is for that gorgeous color to fade prematurely. To maintain your color's vibrancy, avoid exposing your hands to direct sunlight or use a sunscreen product designed for hands and nails. When on vacation, especially around chlorine pools, minimizing sun exposure can help prolong your shellac's lifespan.

5. Don't Pick at It

As your shellac begins to show signs of wear and tear, you might notice it lifting around the edges. The urge to pick at it may be strong, but resist! Attempting to remove shellac without the right tools can seriously damage or strip the top layer of your nail bed, which not only looks unattractive but also weakens your nails and hinders the adherence of future nail polish.

6. Apply a Top Coat (Occasionally)

Consider this a clever little trick. If you're determined to squeeze a few extra chip-free days out of your manicure before giving in to the inevitable, simply apply a clear layer of fast-drying or nail-strengthening top coat. Keep in mind that eventually, the shellac will need to be removed or replaced with a new color, so don't make this a constant habit.

7. Leave Removal to the Pros

For the most effective and safe gel removal, it's advisable to entrust this task to professionals. Removal at a salon is likely to be faster and done with greater care. Nail technicians equipped with quality tools and techniques can thoroughly eliminate the top coat, expediting the acetone's ability to penetrate and dissolve the color gel.