How to Keep Your Nails Healthy While Enjoying Gel Manicures

Gel nail polish has revolutionized the way we do manicures. Its long-lasting shine and vibrant colours make it a go-to choice for nail lovers everywhere. But while gel polish itself isn’t inherently damaging, proper care and technique are essential to maintaining healthy, strong nails underneath. With the right routine, you can enjoy flawless gel manicures without compromising nail health.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your nails in top shape while loving your gel manicures.

1. Stick to a Complete Gel System

For the best results, it’s essential to use a cohesive gel nail system. Using the full Gelous lineup—Base Coat, Builder Gel, Colour Coat, Top Coat, and the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp—ensures your polish cures properly. Each product is formulated to work within a specific wavelength range, giving you a smooth, long-lasting finish while minimizing risks like irritation or uneven curing. Mixing products from different brands can affect the process and your nail health, so consistency is key.

2. Strengthen Nails with Builder Gel

If your nails are prone to bending, splitting, or breaking, Builder Gel is a lifesaver. Applied over the Base Coat, it adds thickness and strength, creating a protective shield for your natural nails. Builder Gel also encourages growth and reduces flexibility, making your nails less likely to chip or peel. With five shades to choose from, you can strengthen your nails while maintaining a polished look.

3. Safe and Gentle Removal

Patience is everything when removing gel polish. Never peel or pick at your gel nails, as this strips layers from your natural nail, leaving them weak and thin. Instead, use tools like the Gelous Removal Tool, Orangewood Cuticle Sticks, or the Gelous E-File Pen—always with care.

• E-File Tips: Only use the E-File on manicures with Builder Gel. Avoid direct contact with natural nails to prevent thinning or damage.
• Soaking: If polish isn’t lifting easily, it needs more time. Take your time to protect nail integrity.
• Cuticle Care: Work carefully away from cuticles to avoid irritation.

For a visual guide, check out Gelous’ video tutorials on gel polish removal.

4. Keep Skin and Nails Clean

Before curing, remove any polish from your skin or cuticles using an Orangewood Stick or Nail Art Brush with a bit of Nail Polish Remover. This step prevents lifting, reduces the risk of irritation, and ensures a professional-looking finish. A steady hand here goes a long way in achieving flawless results.

5. File and Buff Gently

When prepping nails, use the fine 180-grit side of your nail file and apply light, even pressure. Avoid over-buffing, which can weaken nails, and replace your file every few months for hygiene and efficiency.

6. Protect Nails from Everyday Wear and Tear

Your nails shouldn’t double as tools. Avoid using them to open cans, peel stickers, or scratch surfaces. Minor snags? Smooth them out with a gentle file rather than forcing the nail. Household chores can also impact your gel manicure; gloves are a simple shield against water, detergents, and cleaning chemicals that can lift polish and weaken nails.

7. Nourish Daily

Hydration is key. Daily use of Gelous Cuticle Oil, enriched with Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E, and Vitamin B, keeps cuticles healthy and prevents dryness. Pair it with hand cream to promote nail growth and maintain softness. A nourished nail bed extends the life of your manicure and improves overall nail health.

8. Protect from UV Exposure

Even though gel lamps emit minimal UV rays, it’s smart to take precautions. Apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before your manicure or wear Gelous Anti-UV Gloves. This simple step safeguards your hands while you cure your gel polish.

9. Use Gentle, Enriched Removers

Avoid harsh acetone-only removers, which can dry out nails. Gelous Gel Nail Polish Remover includes nourishing ingredients like safflower, green tea, eucalyptus, and peach to remove polish effectively while keeping nails and cuticles hydrated.

10. Listen to Your Nails

If you notice weakness, peeling, or dryness, take a break between gel manicures. Use this time to nourish your nails, apply cuticle oil, and assess their condition. Nail holidays are essential for maintaining healthy, resilient nails over the long term.

Final Thoughts

Gel manicures don’t have to compromise nail health. By using the right products, applying careful techniques, and keeping a consistent nail care routine, you can enjoy the beauty, shine, and durability of gel polish while protecting your natural nails.

For more in-depth tutorials on gel application, removal, and nail care, visit Gelous’ video library and follow their detailed guides.

Shop Gelous Products:
Get your Gel Nail Polish and Manicure Kits with free shipping on orders over $100 throughout New Zealand, including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Tauranga, and more. International shipping is also available to the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, and beyond.

Your nails deserve the best—protect them while enjoying flawless gel manicures every time.