Tips for Long-lasting Nail Polish: How to Make It Stay Put
There is nothing more frustrating than spending time painting your nails only to have the polish chip or fade within a few days. Long-lasting nail polish is a dream come true for many nail enthusiasts who want to enjoy a beautiful manicure for as long as possible. Thankfully, there are several tips and tricks you can follow to make your nail polish stay put.
1. Start with clean and dry nails: Before applying any nail polish, ensure that your nails are free from any oils or residue. Using a cotton ball soaked in nail polish remover, wipe your nails clean. This will create a clean canvas for the polish to adhere to and prevent any imperfections.
2. Apply a base coat: Applying a base coat is an essential step in maintaining long-lasting nail polish. A base coat helps to create a smooth surface, protects your natural nails from staining, and provides an adhesive base for the polish to cling onto. Opt for a base coat that has strengthening properties to help prevent chipping and cracking.
3. Thin coats are key: When applying nail polish, remember to apply thin coats rather than thick ones. Thick polish tends to take longer to dry and is more prone to smudging. Thin coats allow the polish to dry faster and adhere better to the nails. Apply two to three thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
4. Wrap the tips: One common issue with nail polish longevity is chipping at the tips of the nails. To prevent this, wrap the polish around the edges and tips of your nails. This technique involves painting the free edge and the underside of the tips. It creates a protective barrier, reducing the chances of chipping.
5. Avoid hot water for a few hours: After you’ve finished painting your nails, try to avoid exposing them to hot water for at least a few hours. Hot water can cause the polish to soften and become more susceptible to peeling and chipping. If possible, wear gloves while doing chores that involve excessive hand washing or submerging your hands in water.
6. Seal it with a top coat: To enhance the longevity of your nail polish, always seal it with a good-quality top coat. A top coat acts as a protective layer on top of the colored polish, preventing it from easily chipping, smudging, or fading. Look for a fast-drying top coat that adds shine to your manicure.
7. Reapply top coat every few days: Over time, your top coat may start to wear off, leaving your nails vulnerable to chips and cracks. Extend the lifespan of your manicure by reapplying the top coat every few days. This will not only maintain the shine but also provide added protection to keep the nail polish intact.
8. Avoid excessive hand sanitizer use: Hand sanitizers have become an essential part of our everyday lives, especially in recent times. However, the high alcohol content in hand sanitizers can take a toll on your nail polish. Try to minimize the use of hand sanitizers or apply them using as little contact with your nails as possible.
9. Be gentle with your hands: Our hands are constantly exposed to various tasks that can weaken or damage our nails. To keep your manicure intact, be mindful of the activities you engage in. Avoid using your nails as tools or participating in activities that easily chip or rub off the polish, such as gardening without gloves or heavy cleaning.
10. Moisturize regularly: Keeping your nails and cuticles moisturized is crucial for maintaining healthy nails and long-lasting polish. Dry nails are more prone to cracking and peeling, which can prematurely ruin your manicure. Apply cuticle oil or hand cream daily to keep your nails and surrounding skin hydrated.
Achieving long-lasting nail polish requires a bit of patience and care but is well worth the effort. By following these tips, you can enjoy a flawless manicure that stays put for days, allowing you to show off your beautiful nails with confidence. Experiment with different methods and products to find what works best for you, and say goodbye to chipped nails forever!
