Nothing’s more frustrating than spending time (and money) on beautiful nail art only to have it chip or fade within days. Whether you get your nails done professionally or love doing your own designs at home, there are simple steps you can take to make your nail art look fresh and flawless for as long as possible. Here are five essential tips to help your nail art last longer and stay picture-perfect.
Start with Clean, Dry Nails
One of the biggest mistakes people make is applying nail polish to nails that still have oils, lotions, or residue on them. Before you begin your manicure, wash your hands thoroughly and use a bit of nail polish remover—even if you’re not wearing polish—to ensure your nails are completely clean and free of oils. This creates the perfect base for the polish to adhere to and can dramatically extend the life of your nail art.
Always Use a Base Coat
A base coat isn’t just a marketing gimmick—it’s a vital step in any long-lasting manicure. A good base coat creates a smooth surface, helps the polish adhere better, and prevents staining from dark colors. Some base coats are even formulated to strengthen your nails, which can reduce peeling and chipping. Don’t skip this step if you want your nail art to go the distance.
Seal with a Quality Top Coat
Once your nail art is complete, finishing with a high-quality top coat is crucial. The top coat locks in your design, adds shine, and creates a barrier against chips and scratches. For best results, apply a fresh layer of top coat every couple of days. This keeps your nails looking glossy and strengthens the protective seal, ensuring your manicure lasts well beyond the usual time frame.
Protect Your Hands
Everyday activities like washing dishes, gardening, or cleaning can take a toll on your nails. To keep your manicure intact, wear gloves whenever you’re doing household chores that expose your hands to water or harsh chemicals. Water and cleaning agents can weaken your nail polish, causing it to chip faster. By protecting your hands, you also protect your nail art.
Be Gentle with Your Nails
It may seem obvious, but nails aren’t tools. Using them to open cans, peel labels, or scratch off sticky residues puts extra pressure on the polish and can cause chips and breaks. Be mindful of how you use your hands and try to avoid activities that put unnecessary strain on your nails. Treat them gently, and they’ll stay gorgeous for longer.
With a little extra care and the right techniques, your nail art can stay fresh and fabulous much longer than you think. Follow these five tips to get the most out of your manicure and keep your designs looking salon-perfect for days (or even weeks) to come.
