How to care for your nails after gel polish (and when to come back)

A well-done manicure is half the result. The other half happens at home, between visits. This is the aftercare we recommend to our clients.

The first 24 hours

Gel polish leaves the studio fully cured — you can use your hands normally. Still, on the first day it's worth avoiding long hot baths, saunas and harsh cleaning products.

Every day

• Cuticle oil. One drop per nail in the evening keeps the skin soft and the outline clean for longer.
• Hand cream after washing your hands.
• Gloves for washing up and cleaning with detergents.

What to avoid

• Peeling or biting the polish. This is the main cause of thin, weak nails: the polish comes off with layers of your own nail.
• Using your nails as tools — opening cans, scraping labels, lifting lids.
• Filing the surface at home. If a tip chips, gently file the length only; leave the rest for your visit.

When to come back

Gel polish usually lasts 3–4 weeks. It's time for maintenance when:

• the regrowth near the cuticle is clearly visible;
• the edge starts to lift — water can get underneath;
• a nail has chipped or broken.

If you can't come for maintenance, book at least a removal. It costs less than repairing a nail after peeling the polish off.

Do you need a break from gel?

Not if removal is always done properly. If you'd like to go without colour for a while, a Japanese P.Shine manicure gives a natural shine without polish.

When to see a doctor

Redness, pain, swelling or a change in nail colour are not normal after a manicure. Don't reapply polish — see a doctor.

See maintenance prices or read about gel polish, overlay and extensions.