Here’s how to make your manicure last longer, according to experts

I don’t know about you, but nothing makes me feel quite as polished (pun intended), put together and, honestly, like myself than a good manicure. Except for when the manicure starts to chip and crack sooner than expected — especially if you tend to avoid gel manicures because of the harsh removal process and UV light.

So, how do you make your manicure last longer? According to experts, it all starts with your bare nails. Whether you’re DIYing your manicure or are getting a manicure at the salon, scroll below for some expert-approved tips on getting — and keeping — a shiny manicure.

Prep your nails

You know how you start a makeup look with a clean face? The same goes for painting your nails. Aside from the obvious things like making sure your hands are washed, New York-based nail artist Miki Higuchi stresses the importance of making sure you (or your nail technician) wipe down your nails with acetone or alcohol before applying a base coat. “This removes any natural oils on your nail bed,” explains Higuchi, which can get in the way of your nail polish adhering properly.

It’s also important to note that, per the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), bright red or orange nail polish can discolor your nails. Avoid this by applying an extra layer of base coat to your nails.

Protect your nails

Even though your manicure is done and the polish is dry, your pretty new nails need still need to be babied to oblivion. “Don’t use your nails for opening packages and boxes and cans, which can break your nails” says Higuchi. Meanwhile, Miami-based board-certified dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD also suggests wearing gloves when it comes to household chores like cleaning or washing dishes — especially when you’re using harsh chemicals found in detergents and cleaners.

For an extra level of protection, the nail experts at Essie suggest applying a topcoat every two days as this “re-stabilizes the polish and restores shine.”

Oh, and sorry to all the nail-biters out there, but if you want a healthy, long-lasting manicure, you should never bite your nails. The same goes for picking at your nails. Just leave them be.

Consider using a nail-strengthening product

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

Both Dr. Chacon and Higuchi agree that moisturizing your nails is vital to a long-lasting manicure. “Just like your skin, your nails need hydration to maintain their health,” explains Dr. Chacon. Ideally, you’re using both a cuticle oil and a good hand cream daily. This is especially true after removing your nail polish, since most contain strong chemicals that dry the nails.

“Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients like shea butter, olive oil, vitamin E or jojoba oil,” recommends Dr. Chacon. She particularly loves the CND SolarOil Nail & Cuticle Care oil.

Be picky with your polishes

Like with most products, ingredients matter when it comes to nail polish formulas. “Look for polishes that are free from harmful chemicals like dibutyl phthalate, toluene and formaldehyde,” says Dr. Chacon. Gentler polishes will keep your nails strong, creating a healthier bed for long-lasting manicures.

Shopping brands like Zoya, Butter London and Debora Lippmann is a great place to start!

You’re also going to want to be cautious of “quick-drying” polishes. “These can often strip the nails of their natural oils, leaving them dehydrated and prone to breakage,” explains Dr. Chacon. Look, we’ve all needed to use quick-drying nail polish in a pinch before we leave the house. So if you do need to use them, make sure you’re keeping your nails healthy and hydrated!

Keep your nails healthy

Yes, proper nail care can help your manicure to last long, but it also affects your overall health. “It’s important to keep your nails clean and dry to prevent bacteria, fungi and other organisms from growing under your nails,” explains Dr. Chacon.

Not only does this mean moisturizing your nails and hands, it also means regularly using sharp nail clippers and scissors and nail files it also means regularly using sharp nail clippers and scissors and nail files when addressing — and preventing — snags and hangnails. This habit will keep your nails fresh and free of snags. You should also never cut or forcefully push back your cuticles, as that can cause an infection. If you need to, make sure it’s after a shower or bath when the skin is soft.

When it comes to nail salons, make sure that both the salon and nail technician follow cleanliness and disinfection guidelines — and make sure they tend to the basics, like keeping a tidy station and using brand new nail files and buffers on every customer. To be extra safe, the AAD recommends purchasing your own tools to be used at the salon.

If you have any concerns about your nails, especially if you notice an abnormal change in color, texture and shape, consult a dermatologist as this can be a sign of larger infection or illness.