There are few things in the life of a nail artist more frustrating than a client coming back to you with excessive lifting. Even worse when they’re coming back just a couple days later. This can leave you scratching your head and trying all different methods, sometimes going to extreme lengths, just to get those suckers stuck back on!
This is a list of my “back to the drawing board” moments, and the questions I ask upon return of a problematic service.
HOW'S MY APPLICATION?
Did I flood the cuticle or sidewalls?
Is my apex properly placed, and thick enough?
Did I bevel my free edge properly?
Is there any part of the nail that has been left bare?
DID WE CHOOSE THE RIGHT PRODUCT?
Sometimes we get stuck on loving a product so much that we forget that there really is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to gel.
A lot of the time, weaker nails need a softer product, that will have better adhesion and act as a “shock absorber” so as to bend and flex with the nail.
Longer nails always need more hardness, however, to support the length past the free edge. This is especially true with enhancements.
HOW'S MY END USER?
The success of any manicure is not a one-sided venture. Our clients need to be vigilant with their aftercare, in order to see the results that we are looking for.
I always give my clients the 3 Golden Rules:
Never peel off your gel. Ever.
Cuticle oil is your best friend. Once a day at least, more is better
Jewels. Not. Tools. You gotta treat your nails like you want them to last!
This way, you and your client will be in the same page that this service is a partnership.
HOW'S MY CURING UNIT?
An old or improperly functioning curing lamp can be your worst enemy in terms of service breakdown. Make sure you monitor your lamp’s strength regularly, and have a backup on hand in case your current unit decides to kick the bucket.
WHAT'S THE WEATHER LIKE?
This may sound a little far fetched, but the environment you’re living can have a very direct contribution to how your manicures are lasting. Here’s an example:
When I lived in Miami, it was so easy to make manicures last, due to the moisture rich, warm environment. I could go straight in with certain builders on the natural nail with no problems.
When I moved to the deserts of Las Vegas, I immediately noticed a huge impact on my retention due to the extremely dry climate. I had to start adding more thorough prep work, as well as a rubber base component to that same builder I was using without issue in Miami. Once I added those in, the problems subsided.
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