You have just left the salon with perfect nails — here is how to keep them that way. These are the tips our technicians share with clients every day.
The first 24 hours
- Avoid very hot water for the rest of the day — skip long baths, saunas and hot tubs.
- Go easy on hand cream straight after a fresh set so the surface stays clean and glossy.
Every day
- Cuticle oil, morning and night. It is the single best thing you can do for any type of manicure.
- Gloves on for chores. Cleaning products dull shine and weaken product at the edges.
- Use your finger pads, not your nails, to type, open packaging and press buttons.
- Keep a soft file handy to smooth a small snag before it becomes a break.
Between appointments
- Book infills every 2–4 weeks depending on your treatment and how fast your nails grow.
- Never pick off gel or acrylic. It removes layers of natural nail and leaves them thin and sore.
- Come back if something lifts. Water can get trapped under lifted product, so it is better to fix it quickly.
- Give feet some love too. A regular spa pedicure keeps hard skin under control and toenails tidy.
When to see a professional
If you notice pain, swelling, discolouration or anything unusual under the product, have it removed and let your nails rest. Your technician can advise, and for anything that looks like an infection please speak to a pharmacist or your GP.