How to Make Your Manicure Last Longer

A salon-perfect manicure can start chipping within days if you skip a few key steps. The most impactful thing you can do is prep your nails correctly before any polish goes on: wipe the nail plate with isopropyl alcohol or nail prep solution to remove oils and lotion residue. Polish sticks to a dry, clean surface and won't adhere properly to hydrated nails — so skip the hand cream until after your appointment. Apply thin coats rather than one thick one; thick coats shrink unevenly and peel. Wrap the free edge (the very tip of your nail) with each layer of polish including the top coat — this seals the edge that takes the most abuse. After the salon, avoid hot water for at least two hours as heat can dent or wrinkle fresh polish. Wear gloves for cleaning and washing dishes. Reapply your top coat every two to three days. And carry a small bottle of your polish for quick chip touch-ups — dab a tiny amount on the chipped area, blend the edge, and top coat again.