Manicuring your nails with the option to explore different nail polish colors is one excellent way to keep your nails tidy and presentable.
However, much more than the beauty of having your nails neat and attractive, very few people talk about the pains that come after getting a gel manicure off and how you can deal with them.
In this article, you will understand why your nails could hurt after a gel manicure and learn how to fix it!
How To Fix Nails That Hurt After Gel Manicure
A gel manicure can give you beautiful, long-lasting nails. However, it can also cause pain and discomfort if not done correctly.
If your nails hurt so badly after having a gel manicure, then here’s how you can handle and minimize the hurt:
1. Get an Experienced Nail Technician
Your gel manicures must be applied and removed by an expert. This will help prevent damage to your nails in any form. And if the discomfort persists, you should consult a doctor, as they can diagnose and treat any underlying condition that may be causing the pain.
2. Apply Cuticle Oils to Your Fingernails
Moisturizing your fingernails using cuticle oil helps to keep your nails hydrated and healthy. It is essential to do so because dry nails are usually more prone to pain.
3. Always Wear Gloves When Using Harsh Chemicals
Wearing hand gloves when doing chores at home will help prevent the peeling or chipping of nails. Also, using hand gloves protects your nails from harsh washing agents that can cause damage to your nails which may, in turn, lead to nail infection.
4. Take a Nail Break
Take a break for about 2-4 weeks after removing your gel manicure. This will allow your nails to regain their strength and prevent further pain. Apply nail extesions back to back can take its toll on your nails.
5. Apply a Nail Strengthener
A good nail strengthener helps improve your nails’ overall strength. This will also fortify your nails against any form of wear and pain.
6. Avoid Over-filing Fingernails
Overfilling them too much can cause them to become thin and weak, leading to pain. Make sure to file your nails in one direction and avoid filing the corners too much.
Always keep in mind that nails are a delicate part of your body. So, it is essential to take good care of them. It is recommended to avoid applying gel polish too frequently. This will allow your nails to breathe.
How To Carefully Remove Gel Manicure
How you remove your gel manicure can determine if you feel pain afterwards, follow these steps to remove the gel manicure:
Step 1
Firstly, you will need the following tools: a nail file, a cuticle pusher, cotton balls, foil, and acetone.
Step 2
Next, you need to file the topcoat: Use a nail file to remove the gel polish’s shiny coat gently. Ensure not to rub too hard because it can cause damage to your natural nails.
Step 3
Afterwards, dip the nails in acetone: Soak cotton balls in acetone and press the cotton ball onto your nail. Ensure that it is fully covered. Later, take a piece of foil and wrap it around your finger, covering the cotton ball and nail.
Repeat this step for each nail and leave for about 5 – 10 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and cotton balls from your nails. Once done, you will see that the gel polish will lift away from your nails.
Step 4
Carefully remove the polish: Use a cuticle pusher to gently scrape off the remaining gel polish.
After following these simple steps, remember to wash your hands and moisturize your nails and cuticles. This will help remove any remaining acetone.
How To Get Your Gel Manicure Done Correctly to Avoid Pain
Let me make this easy for you by showing you how to avoid the pain in the first place altogether.
Follow these simple steps below, and your gel manicure will last for weeks without chipping or peeling or causing you any form of pain or discomfort:
File the Nail Bed Carefully
This is the first and most crucial step to preparing your nails. Ensure you file and shape your nails to your desired length and shape.
Clean the Nail Bed with a Nail Prep Solution
You can achieve this by trimming your cuticles and removing excess oils or dirt from your nails with alcohol.
Apply a Base Coat of Gel Polish
Once you have used a base coat of gel polish, ensure you cure it under the UV light for the recommended time. This is a significant step because it helps the gel polish adhere to your nails and prevents chipping.
Apply your Desired Color Coat
Once you’ve applied a base coat of gel polish, you should follow up the next step by using your selected color of gel polish and then cure it under the UV light for the recommended time. You can repeat this process if necessary to achieve the desired opacity.
Apply a Top Coat
After applying your desired color coat, use it and cure it under UV light for the recommended time. The top coat helps seal the color and gives your nails a shiny look.
Gently Remove The Sticky Leftovers on the Nails
After curing the top coat, remove the sticky ones using a lint-free wipe and cleanse with alcohol.
Apply Cuticle Oil to the Nails
Applying cuticle oils or moisturizer around the nails by massaging helps to nourish the cuticles after using alcohol application.
Although at-home gel manicure kits are available, visiting a professional nail technician is highly recommended to prevent any mistakes.
Conclusion
Learning these expert tips on maintaining your gel manicure is as vital as ever thinking to get them done in the first place! If you love it, you should go for it, but with an expert who knows their onions.
If you accidentally hurt your nails while taking off a gel manicure, see a nail technician who will help get your nails back in shape.