How Long Will Manicure Last?

Answering the question of how long a manicure lasts is dependent upon several variables. For instance, exposure to water or harsh chemicals could shorten its lifecycle significantly.

Make sure to use an effective base and top coat, and carry around nail polish remover so you can touch up when necessary.

1. Take care of your nails

No doubt a manicure is a wonderful way to keep your nails looking their best, but don’t rely on it as the only means of nail beautification for longer than a week or so. Your nails can often be exposed to factors that cause them to chip, smudge and peel quickly – from extreme temperatures to excessive water exposure, there are plenty of ways you could ruin freshly applied nail polish in no time at all!

To prolong a manicure’s longevity, Elle Gerstein advises not compromising on either base and top coat products. According to celebrity manicurist and imPRESS partner Elle Gerstein, using both these products prevents discoloration of nails, increases adhesion and offers a shiny protective finish. Furthermore, she cautions against the use of polish containing chemicals like dibutyl phthalate formaldehyde or toluene as these could dry out nails over time.

2. Apply a good base coat

To extend the longevity of your manicure, it is wise to apply a base coat first. This will give the polish something to adhere to and also provide protection for your nails.

Many nail salons will apply base coat for you, but it’s equally important that you do the same at home. A high quality base coat can extend the wear time of dark colors by up to two times.

Base coat contains plasticizers to keep nails flexible and to prevent staining and yellowing from polish over time, while also being rich with vitamins and minerals that keep your nails healthy. Apply one thin coat of base coat, allow it to dry completely before adding color. It may be beneficial to add cuticle oil or hand cream on a regular basis as well; one such product could be the LANON Nail & Cuticle Oil which keeps cuticles hydrated, prevent dryness which leads to chipping or peeling nails as well.

3. Use a good top coat

Top coats can extend the longevity of your manicure by protecting against chipping and giving nails a glossy appearance, which contributes to their beauty.

Your top coat should also help protect against water and other chemicals which can dull or fade the colour, including plasticizers that flex with nails to reduce cracking and flaking.

Final step in nail care: using a top coat to smooth out any imperfections on your nails such as visible brush strokes from applying colored polish. There are specific top coats designed specifically to do this task.

How long your manicure lasts will ultimately depend on your lifestyle and usage patterns. Frequent handwashing, frequent hand sanitization and frequent visits to salt water beaches (which can damage manicures) all shorten its life.

4. Don’t overdo it

Expertise is required to create a manicure that looks fantastic and lasts. Precision in applying polish so it doesn’t bleed or chip is paramount, while artful use of color helps make nails appear natural with just the right balance of hues. Though the process might take time and dedication, the rewards make it worth your while!

A manicure typically lasts several weeks, depending on the type of nail polish used. Gel and shellac can last slightly longer, although too much nail polish could damage your nails. It is important to not overdo your manicure to prevent future complications.

Manicures may last longer if you wear gloves while performing household tasks, protecting your hands from harsh soaps and detergents which could reduce their lifespan and shorten its duration. You could also try cuticle oil or hand cream to keep skin and nails moisturized and prevent dryness.