There’s nothing worse than spending time on a gel polish application only to see it chip, lift, or peel within a few days. You followed all the steps, cured each layer, yet something still went wrong. Sound familiar?

Here’s the truth that many nail techs (and at-home enthusiasts) learn the hard way: the secret to a flawless gel manicure isn’t just in the polish, it's in the prep.

Whether you're a pro or doing a manicure at home, mastering how to prep nails for gel polish is the difference between a mani that lasts two days and one that lasts two weeks. So let’s break it down, step by step, with real talk, expert advice, and some nail tech-approved tips.

Step-by-Step: How to Prep Your Nails for Gel Polish

Step 1: Start With a Clean Slate

Before anything, cleanse your nails. This removes surface oils, dust, and any lingering nail polish or product. A quick swipe with alcohol or a specialized nail cleanser using a lint free wipe does the trick.

This step also helps dehydrate the nail slightly, creating the ideal condition for gel polish to adhere.

Pro tip: Avoid harsh chemicals like acetone during this step unless you’re fully removing old product. They can damage your nails with repeated use.

Step 2: Shape Things Up

Use a nail file to achieve your desired nail shape: square, oval, almond, or stiletto, whatever suits your vibe. Just be sure to file in one direction to avoid splits and cracks.

Shaping your nails prevents uneven edges that can cause gel to peel or chip sooner.

Step 3: Care for Your Cuticles (Don’t Skip This!)

If there’s one area that gets neglected the most, it’s the cuticle. And yet, painting over your cuticles is one of the top reasons gel polish lifting happens.

Start by applying a cuticle remover and letting it soften your cuticles. Then, gently push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher. Be gentle, you're not trying to scrape your nail bed raw.

Next, remove dead skin that may be clinging to the nail plate. This invisible layer is often what makes people think their nails are ready, when in fact, they’re not.

Reminder: Using a pusher doesn’t mean digging. You’re just gently pushing to reveal the clean surface of your nails.

Step 4: Buff the Nail Plate

Lightly buff your nails with a fine buffer to etch the surface of the nail. This helps the gel polish grip better and reduces the risk of chipping. You're not trying to thin the nail; you’re only creating a slightly rough surface. Over-buffing can damage your nails, so go easy. This is a nail prep step you want to get just right.

Step 5: Dehydrate and Clean Again

Now it’s time to dehydrate. Use a pH-balancing dehydrator to remove any remaining oils from the nail surface. This is crucial to ensure your gel application lasts as long as possible.

Follow up by wiping the entire nail with a lint-free wipe to ensure the nail plate is completely clean.

Step 6: Apply the Base Coat

Apply the base coat in a thin, even layer. Be careful not to flood the cuticle or touch the free edge; mistakes love to hide there. Cure each layer under the lamp per your product instructions.

A good base coat does more than hold your gel polish; it acts as a foundation, protecting your natural nail from stains and giving the gel color something to anchor to.

Why Nail Prep Matters So Much

When you skip proper nail preparation, even the best gel color won’t stay put. Oils, dead skin, and moisture are the enemies of strong adhesion. They sit on the nail plate, blocking your gel polish from bonding and causing it to lift, chip, or, worse, damage your natural nail.

I’ve had clients ask, “Why does your gel keep lifting?” Nine times out of ten, it comes down to rushed or skipped nail prep. Let’s fix that for good.

Common Mistakes That Ruin Gel Manicures

If your gel polish is lifting or peeling within a few days, it’s probably not the product. It’s the prep. Here are a few missteps to avoid:

• Skipping cuticle remover or pushing back the cuticle

• Not using a dehydrator

• Forgetting to buff

• Applying too thick a base coat

• Not fully curing between steps

• Using an old UV/LED Lamp

Proper nail preparation is the perfect way to set up your manicure for success.

Extra Tips and Tricks From the Nail Table

1. Always use a lint-free wipe; paper towels leave fibers that can cause lifting.

2. Don’t forget the free edge when sealing your gel polish application.

3. Your nails may need a break occasionally. Give them love with cuticle oil and strengtheners.

4. Experimenting with different nail art? The better your prep, the cleaner your canvas.

Final Thoughts: Give Your Nails What They Deserve

Prepping your nails for gel polish is an act of care, both for your nails and your artistry. Whether you're doing it for a client, for content, or some self-love, preparing your nails properly means your gel polish will go on smoother, last longer, and look stunning.

And hey, if you're ever frustrated with a gel polish not lasting? Take it back to the prep. That’s usually where the fix is.

If you’re ready to create healthy nails and great manis, keep practicing and perfecting your gel nail prep routine. Because at the end of the day, the rest of your manicure is only as good as your nail prep.