How long should you get from your mani?
Just cos you can get longer doesnt mean you should!!!
We’ve noticed loads of clients getting used to getting longer out of their BIAB and transferring that expectation over to gel polish, or clients seeing their nails growing out but otherwise looking perfect (apart from the gap at the base obvs!!) so pushing it out a week.
Whilst we love retention stories, sometimes by pushing it out you can be causing damage to your nails, going against the whole reason for getting the treatments in the first place. There are no trophies for getting 5 or 6 weeks out of your nails with no lifting!
So here’s what we reccommend for ongoing best results with your nails.
Normal polish:
Most people get 5-7 days from their polish, however we do hear stories from clients who have gotten up to 10 days. It is very hard to say how long polish will last as nail health and strength plays a huge part in how long polish lasts. If there is a weakness in the nail, when that moves that is actually what causes chips. You’ll always notice, when you get a chip, a break or tear of the nail always follows. Well, if you hadn’t before, you will now!
Gel Polish:
You should be booking in for a removal or reapplication after 2 weeks - 3 weeks max. As the product grows out, there is more chance of lifting as the product becomes slightly top heavy. The product is strong but is more liable to chip after 2 weeks, especially if there is weakness in the nail.
Extensions:
Your extensions should be refilled or removed after 3 weeks. As your natural nail grows out, they become top heavy with product putting pressure on the natural nail. The apex that provides strength to the nail moves like a centre of gravity and the structure of the nail changes.
This results in more chance of lifting at the base, which in turn increases the risk of trapped moisture and bacterial or fungal infection. Picking or peeling off gel will tear off the top layers of your natural nail, which is never a good idea!!!
BIAB:
First application - refill after 2.5 weeks. Thereafter every 3 weeks. Some people *may* be able to get 4 weeks, but only if your nail artist gives you the all clear. For all the same reasons as extensions like more chance of lifting and the changing structure.