Getting a manicure should result in two things: gleaming polish that lasts much longer than a DIY job, and feeling really smug. Like LinkedIn photograph smug. To make the most out of your salon trip, we’ve got a few ‘pre-tips’ – the stuff you should make time for before your appointment (and bonus advice once you’re at it).
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Know your polish
Gel lasts longer – around two weeks – and is set under a UV lamp for a high-gloss finish. Shellac is pretty similar, but is applied in thinner layers, so may not last quite as long, but is a little healthier on the nail beds. If you prefer to switch up your polish on a weekly basis, go for a regular manicure (using the sort of polish you find in the shops).
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2 Skip the morning shave
If you’re heading for a pedi, skip the shave that day. Removing the hair will leave your skin extra sensitive to any creams, or exfoliants that may be included in your salon trip. Your pedicure should be super relaxing, don’t let stingy shins get in the way of that.
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3 Leave your nails alone
A little like cleaning your house before the cleaner arrives (guilty), it can be tempting to ‘neaten up’ your fingertips before a mani appointment. Just, don’t. You need to let the pros do their thing (and pushing your own cuticles back can actually cause infection). Get the most out of your salon trip, don’t DIY it.
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4 Budget for removal
If you need polish removed before your next mani (be it gel or classic), give your technician a heads up and book in for a removal too. Peeling it off (*shiver*) is always a bad idea; as well as damaging your nails in the long-run, it’ll make for an uneven base for your fresh gel coating. No thanks.
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5 Don't touch post-buff
Yep, once your nail technician has finished the ‘buffing’ stage, your nails will be looking seriously smooth. So damn smooth you just want to stroke them a little. Bad news. In doing so, oils from your fingertips can transfer onto the nail, meaning the base coat may not adhere as thoroughly. It’s like asking for chips.
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6 Go airplane mode
‘New message’. Never will you want to open it more than when someone else is holding your hand, or it’s nestled inside a gel lamp. Ignore those notifications folks. Sure, time spent at your mani appointment may feel like prime opportunity for a little email scrolling, but each touch of your phone is a potential smudge situ. Take some time out from the feed, your smudge-free nails will thank you for it.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing spas in your area.
FAQs
How long does gel polish typically last on your nails?
Gel polish usually lasts around two weeks with proper care. It is set under a UV lamp to create a high-gloss finish that outlasts regular polish applications.
Should you shave your legs before a pedicure appointment?
It’s best to skip shaving your legs on the day of your pedicure. Shaving can make your skin extra sensitive to creams or exfoliants used during the treatment, which might cause irritation or discomfort.
Is it okay to tidy your nails before a manicure?
You should leave your nails alone before your manicure appointment. Attempting to neaten your nails or push back cuticles yourself can increase the risk of infection and reduce the benefits of salon care.
Do you need to book removal for gel or classic polish?
Yes, you should book in for a removal if you need existing gel or classic polish taken off before your next manicure. Peeling off old polish can damage your nails in the long run and create an uneven base for new coatings.
Why shouldn’t you touch your nails after the technician buffs them?
Avoid touching your nails after the buffing stage because oils from your fingertips can transfer onto the nail. This can stop the base coat from sticking properly and increases the chance of chips in your manicure.
Why is it helpful to avoid your phone during a manicure?
Keeping your phone out of reach prevents accidental smudges while your nails are being done. Handling your phone can easily damage wet or freshly applied polish, risking imperfections in the final result.