Gel Polish FAQ: Solutions for your gel polish application

When it comes to our gel manicures, the one thing we want is clear: a long-lasting set of nails that we can be proud of!

While there are common problems that can get in the way of your two-week manis, they all have simple solutions, which can make all the difference. We've taken our top FAQs and answered them for you to make sure your nails always stand the test of time.

Why does my gel polish peel off?

The most common reason for gel polish chipping or peeling is that it has been cured onto the skin/cuticle. This can cause lifting straight away and mean your manicure won’t last long at all!

Always ensure your cuticles are properly prepped and pushed back before applying gel polish. If you get any gel on your skin when applying, carefully wipe away before curing to avoid any peeling.

Why has my gel gone hard in the bottle?

When gel polish goes hard in the bottle this is because it has been exposed to direct sunlight and has begun to cure in the bottle.

To easily combat this, make sure all your gel polish and Bluesky products are stored out of direct sunlight and aren’t left next to your nail lamp when curing is in progress, as this can also cause your polish to cure in the bottle.

How can I make my gel polish last longer?

Proper nail prep is the key to unlocking your long-lasting gel manicure. Always push back your cuticles (and only trim where necessary), file your nails gently to your desired shape, and buff all nails to take the shine off them – this is what will help the base coat adhere to the nail.

If you struggle with your gel polish chipping or lifting even with good preparation, you may find an acid-free primer helpful. A primer is used to remove any oils from your nail plate, which can otherwise lead to your base coat not adhering to the nail.

Why do I have bubbles in my gel polish?

When it comes to air bubbles, there are several things you can try to combat this. Firstly, make sure you roll the bottle in between your hands before applying so that the gel polish is thoroughly mixed.

We also recommend very thin coats when applying each layer. Applying gel polish with thick coats can lead to air bubbles forming as it will take a lot longer for the gel polish to cure.