How to Make Your Gel Manicure Last Throughout Your Holiday
There’s nothing worse than heading off on holiday with a fresh gel manicure, only to see chips, lifting or dullness within a few days. Whether you're lounging on the beach, exploring a city or heading out for dinner each night, your nails should stay looking flawless from start to finish. The good news? With a few smart habits and simple tools, you can extend the life of your gel manicure while you travel.
A nail file is a must-have on holiday. If you notice a chip or feel a small snag, filing it down straight away prevents the gel from lifting further. It also removes the temptation to pick at it.
Choose a fine-grit or glass nail file: gentle on the nail but perfect for quick fixes. Keep it in your handbag or beach bag – it could save your entire manicure.
After a dip in the pool or sea, make sure to dry your hands thoroughly with a towel – not just a quick shake.
Why? Letting your hands air-dry leaves salt, chlorine and moisture sitting on your nails, which can weaken your gel manicure and cause lifting or dullness over time. Gently patting them dry helps remove these residues and protects your manicure from early damage.
A top coat is a great way to protect your manicure during your holiday. If you spot a chip or dullness in your gel polish, applying a fresh layer of top coat can help seal the damage, restore shine, and prevent further lifting. It acts as a barrier against water, sand, and daily wear.
If you're wearing gel stickers, a top coat isn’t strictly necessary – but it’s highly recommended. It adds extra protection, keeps the surface smooth, and helps your stickers last longer, especially when exposed to sun and water. For gel polish, however, a top coat is a must every time.
To get the most wear out of your gel manicure while on holiday, it’s best to do your nails as close to your departure as possible. The later, the better – ideally the day before you leave, or at most a few days in advance.
A fresh gel manicure means maximum shine, no outgrowth, and longer-lasting results while you’re away – so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about your nails.
Sun, saltwater, chlorine and air-conditioning can all dry out your nails and cuticles on holiday – which increases the chance of lifting or cracking.
Bringing a cuticle oil pen is a game-changer. It is compact, mess-free and easy to use on the go – perfect for your beach bag or handbag. Apply it once or twice a day to keep your nails hydrated and looking fresh.
Holiday nails should be both beautiful and low-maintenance. Go for a short to medium length with a rounded or squoval shape – these are less likely to chip, break or catch on things while you're active.
Also, pick a colour you know you feel good in. Whether it’s a soft nude, classic red or bright coral – choose something you won’t get bored of. If you love looking at your nails, you're far less likely to pick at them, which helps your manicure last longer. Simple rule: if in doubt, go with a shade that always makes you smile.
SPF hand cream is always a smart product to keep with you on holiday. Use it like your facial SPF: apply generously and reapply throughout the day, especially after swimming or washing your hands. Our SPF hand cream hydrates while protecting your skin and manicure from the sun – ideal for beach days, city strolls and poolside lounging. Keep it in your beach bag or handbag so you're always covered.
Even with the best prep, accidents can happen – a snag, a chip, or dry cuticles. That’s why it’s smart to pack a Mini Emergency Kit to keep your manicure looking fresh, no matter what your holiday throws at you.
What to include?
- Pocket Perfect Manicure Set: mini nail file, cuticle nipper, cuticle pusher, nail scissors, and nail clipper – perfect for quick clean-ups or reshaping.
- Top Coat to seal minor chips and refresh shine.
- Cuticle Oil Pen to keep nails nourished and flexible.
- Mini LED Lamp if you’re using gel polish or gel stickers and want to secure a touch-up on the go.
It all fits neatly in your toiletry or handbag – so you're prepared for anything, without taking up space.
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Set value € 50,00
for gel nail polish & gel nail stickers
Set value € 50,00
