Two of the most popular manicure methods today are gel and dip powder. Everyone has their own preference for which manicure style works for them, with both styles being touted as lasting two to three weeks. When you invest time and money into a quality manicure, you want to ensure you get as many days of chip-free shine as possible. 

When it comes to a long-lasting mani, there is a little more to it than just getting the manicure. You have to take care of your nails, and make sure the application and removal process of the manicure is done correctly, if you want to see your color last a month without chipping. Here’s the bottom line: healthy nails are strong nails. If your nails are weak or damaged from improper care, your manicure will chip much easier. Take care of your nails by giving them breaks from manicures when you notice they are frail or damaged, eat a healthy diet or take multivitamins such as keratin and vitamin E, and always have your manicures removed properly.

Gel Manicure

Gel can be used to do a regular manicure or create nail extensions; a gel manicure is referred to as soft gel or gel polish. This type of manicure involves applying a base coat on the nail plate, then the colored gel polish, and then a topcoat. The nail is cured under a UV light for about half a minute to two minutes for each coat. The UV instantly hardens the gel, so you don’t have to wait for it to dry. This process is repeated for 2-3 coats to ensure an even, vibrant color.  

A soft gel mani typically lasts between 2-3 weeks. Even if it doesn’t chip, you shouldn’t leave a gel manicure on for longer than that, because the gel continues to cure as it is exposed to the sun’s UV rays. Over time, the nail will grow out leaving a gap in the of color near the base of the nail.To remove a gel manicure, the nails are soaked in acetone for about 10 minutes.

With gel manicures, people who are very active or spend a lot of time in the sun most often find their mani doesn’t last as long as it should. Being mindful of how you treat and use your nails day to day can make a big difference. Wear gloves when you’re washing the dishes, and don’t overuse hand sanitizer, as this can dry out your nails. Additionally, apply cuticle oil to the nail tip in between salon appointments; this can stop your nail from curling and separating from the gel.

Dip Powder

A dip powder manicure is quite different from gel and acrylic. In short, a clear adhesive coat is applied to the nail, and then the nail is dipped into a fine color powder. The powder seals instantly, and a topcoat is applied. Nail technicians usually apply three coats of color powder.

Dip powder manicures are known for their durability; two weeks is the official claim but anecdotally they can last up to four weeks. After that time, you should have your dip powder mani professionally removed at the salon. They will file down the nail before doing an acetone soak. 

When it comes to dip powder, it’s extremely important that you use quality products. Well-known brands like SNS won’t contain any harsh chemicals that can damage your nail, and actually include vitamins to nourish the nail bed.  Choosing a well known brand will increase the length of time it will last. Before applying dip powder, ensure that the nail plate is fully dehydrated with isopropyl alcohol. This allows the base coat to adhere fully to the nail. SNS offers a sheer dip powder that you can apply before and after the color coats for added protection.

If you struggle with getting your manicure to last as long as it should, it could be because the application or removal technique isn’t quite right, or your day-to-day lifestyle is hard on your nails. Being aware of how to take care of your nails and noticing when they might need some TLC will keep your nails chip-free and vibrant for much longer.