There’s nothing better than a fresh, glossy mani—especially when you can get it from the comfort of your couch. But if you’re new to at-home gel manicures, a few small mistakes can make the difference between a flawless, long-lasting mani and one that chips too soon. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here are five common at-home mani mistakes and how to avoid them like a pro.
1. Not Cleaning Your Nails Properly
Why It Matters: Any oils, lotion, or residue left on your nails can prevent the gel from sticking properly. If your nails aren’t prepped, you’re setting yourself up for lifting and early pop-offs.
The Fix: Before you apply your gel, make sure your nails are squeaky clean. Use an alcohol wipe (or nail polish remover, or we’ve even used hand sanitizer in a pinch - anything that really cleans and dries!) to remove any oil or product buildup. If your nails tend to be oily, a light buffing of the nail surface can also help create the perfect base for long-lasting adhesion.
2. Applying the Gel Too Close to the Skin
Why It Matters: If the gel touches your skin or cuticle, it won’t adhere fully—and that tiny gap can lead to lifting or peeling.
The Fix: Leave a tiny margin (think: a hairline space) between the gel and your skin. This helps the gel stick securely to your nail only. For an extra-polished look, gently push back your cuticles before applying.
3. Not Pressing the Gel Down Enough
Why It Matters: Air bubbles might seem harmless, but they’re a fast track to peeling and lifting.
The Fix: Take your time pressing down the gel—especially at the edges and tips. Use a wooden cuticle stick or your fingertip to smooth out any bubbles and ensure every part of the gel is firmly sealed to your nail. More pressure = longer wear.
4. Under- or Over-Curing
Why It Matters: Not enough curing leaves the gel too soft; too much can make it brittle and prone to cracking.
The Fix: Stick to the sweet spot—2 cures for lighter shades, 3 for darker shades. Be sure to cure each hand fully before moving to the next step, and if you’re using a smaller lamp, cure your thumbs separately to avoid uneven curing.
5. Filing in Both Directions
Why It Matters: Filing your nails back and forth can cause the edges to fray or snag, leading to chips and uneven wear.
The Fix: Always file in one direction—start at the outer edge and work toward the center. This keeps your tips smooth and helps the gel last longer. If you want a super-clean finish, follow up with a light buff along the edge.
The Bottom Line:
A little extra care during your at-home mani can go a long way toward achieving that salon-perfect finish. With these simple fixes, you’ll have chip-resistant, flawless nails that last—and the best part? You didn’t even have to leave the house.
Ready to nail it? Check out our latest shades and get started on your perfect at-home mani today!
