Nail Tech Tips - Struggling With Gel Polish Lifting Or Chipping? Here’s How To Fix It!

Few things are more frustrating for a nail tech than seeing a fresh gel manicure lift or chip prematurely. Fair enough if your client returns after 3 weeks with the odd chip, but if it happens within a few days of their appointment you will need to problem solve what has gone wrong to prevent these issues happening again to keep your client happy and returning.

Cold weather is still in full force here in the UK so bear in mind that seasonal changes can also impact gel longevity. Let’s break down the common causes of lifting and chipping - and how to stop them in their tracks!

Why Does Gel Polish Lift or Chip?

Gel polish is designed for durability, but a range of factors can affect adhesion and wear. Here are some of the most common reasons why it might not be lasting as long as it should:

1. Improper Nail Preparation

Skipping or rushing nail prep is one of the biggest culprits of lifting. If there’s oil, dust, moisture or non living tissue left on the nail plate, the gel won’t adhere properly.

✔ Solution: Always perform a thorough prep routine:

• Push back and remove cuticle from the nail plate.

• Remove surface shine with a 240 grit buffer or gently with a 180 grit buffer if your client is prone to lifting.

• Cleanse the nails properly to remove any dust from filing or oils before applying gel. (Make sure your client doesn’t touch their face or hair after your prep as they will undo all of your hard work!)

2. Cold Hands & Incorrect Product Storage

In colder months, clients’ hands and nails can be colder than usual, which can affect how products apply and cure. Cold temperatures slow down the curing process, leading to weaker adhesion and potential lifting.

Additionally, storing gel products in cold conditions can affect their consistency and performance. If a gel base, colour, or topcoat is too cold, it may apply unevenly, take longer to self-level, or struggle to adhere properly.

✔ Solution:

• Ensure the client’s hands are warm before application - washing hands in warm water (not hot) can help. Heated gloves are also great for warming up client's hands and speeding up pre-service removals.

• Store gel products at room temperature (18-24°C) to maintain their correct consistency. Avoid keeping them near windows, radiators, or cold workstations.

• Warm up thick or stiff bottled gel before use by rolling between your hands or keeping them in your apron pocket during your prep routine.

3. Incomplete Curing

If gel polish isn’t fully cured, it will be soft underneath, leading to peeling, chipping, or lifting.

✔ Solution:

• Always use a high-quality, well-maintained lamp that matches the brand of gel you are using.

• Ensure your client’s hand is positioned correctly inside the lamp so all fingers cure evenly.

• If working with darker or heavily pigmented gel colours, cure for a few extra seconds if needed.

4. Product Applied Too Thickly

Thick layers of gel take longer to cure and may remain soft underneath, leading to peeling or lifting.

✔ Solution: Apply thin, even layers and build up coverage gradually. This ensures proper curing and a strong bond.

5. Incorrect Application of the Base Layer

The base layer is what grips the gel to the nail - if it is not applied correctly, lifting is inevitable.

✔ Solution:

• Apply a thin scrub layer of base coat, working it into the nail plate for better adhesion.

• Don’t skip base coat on free edges - capping them can help prevent chips.

6. Client Habits & Aftercare

Even the best gel application won’t last if a client isn’t looking after their nails properly.

✔ Solution: Educate your clients on proper aftercare:

• Wear gloves when cleaning or doing dishes.

• Apply cuticle oil and hand moisturiser daily to prevent dehydration (especially in winter!).

• Avoid using nails as tools to pick or scrape things.

• Book regular infills instead of letting gel grow out too far, as this increases the risk of lifting.

7. Product Choice & Quality

Not all gel brands are created equal. Cheap or low-quality products may not bond well to the nail, leading to chipping, peeling, or lifting.

✔ Solution: Always use a trusted, professional-grade gel system that offers reliable adhesion and flexibility. Matching the base, colour, topcoat and lamp from the same system ensures compatibility and longevity.

Final Thoughts

Gel polish lifting and chipping can be frustrating, but most issues come down to prep, application, and aftercare. By following these tips and adjusting for seasonal challenges like cold weather, you’ll see stronger adhesion, longer-lasting results, and fewer client complaints.

Have you noticed more lifting or chipping during winter? Let me know in the comments - I’d love to hear your experiences!