What Affects The Longevity Of Nail Polish

[Guest sleeping chrysalid]

I have an idea of how long nail polish is supposed to last and I have heard that the quick drying polish doesn't last as long but are there any ways in which the nail polish can chip and peel earlier or later than expected. I have one thing in mind because I shower between two and three times a day (I'm addicted to the feeling of the warm water) but if there are other things it would be nice to hear about them. It would be appreciated if I could get an idea of what makes it last longer as well as shorter. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[Guest Elizabeth K]

I am addicted to long, polished nails. I live full time now so I keep them maintained. Now this is just how I do it.

(1) When you start out - wash your hands thoroughly, and push back the cuticles with a towel - THEN let the nails air dry. BUT they must be 100% clean including under the nails. And they must be 100% dry - I wait at least 15 minutes after I wash my hand.

(2) Sally Hausen clear base coat - let it dry at least 30 minutes (I take a nap). Nail hardener type works as well as a clear base coat.

(3) O P I nail polish - only brand I will use. Apply one coat medium coverage and DON'T try for a total color depth coverage - let it dry at least 30 minutes (another nap?)

(4) DON'T try to correct errors in the application. Let it totally dry - use a scrape off sharp cutting edge (Exacto blade for example) NOT a solvent, to make corrections later, even the next day. Be careful not to cut fleshy parts.

(5) O P I nail polish - second coat, but not as close to the cuticles this time, even up the first application. Now the color should be total depth coverage. Don't do much or at least an hour - let the lacquer totally harden. THEN afterward be easy on your hands for a few hours, no washing of the hands, or showers, which is why it's good to do your nails just before you go to bed.

(6) Clear coat the next day. This is the key to making the polish last. You should get at least three weeks out of it.

(7) Maintenance? Use a non-acetone nail polish remover just dampening a lint free cloth rag, to 'smooth' over your colored nails. It removes just the upper coat and prepares them for touch ups. NEVER use acetone until you are ready to TOTALLY remove the polish down to your natural nails.

Pale pinks are easier to apply than darker colors.

Toenails and fingernails DON'T have to match exactly.

Cheaper polishes are a waste of money.

Love the femininity of your beautifully polished nails!

Lizzy

[Paula ult]

Before i started getting acrylic nails i polished my natural nails, prep like Lizzy said, the trick i was told was to put a tacky base coat on, i got it a Sally Beauty Supply, one coat , let dry then a coat of polish, let dry then a second coat, after that all drys i put a clear top coat, the polish on my acrylic nails never chip but the polish does wear over the time between fills.

Paula

[Guest Donna Jean]

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That reminds me.......

I have to have my nails re-done at the salon tomorrow.....

Donna Jean