How can you keep your nails looking great for 4 weeks?

Many people dream of having strong, shiny and flawless nails for several weeks. However, sometimes a manicure can peel, crack or quickly lose its shine.

How well a manicure holds up doesn’t depend solely on the quality of the product. It depends on several factors: nail preparation, application technique, choice of products, curing, daily care and the nail technician’s experience.

At LuluNails Belgium, a Belgian brand specialising in professional products, nail salons and training in Liège, we share best practices for achieving a long-lasting, elegant and durable manicure.

Why do some manicures not last?

Before trying to make a manicure last longer, it’s important to understand why some manicures peel off quickly.

The most common causes are:

• inadequate preparation of the natural nail;
• inadequate cuticle removal;
• a nail plate that is still oily or damp;
• an unsuitable base coat;
• incomplete curing;
• layers that are too thick;
• a lack of structure on brittle nails;
• products that are incompatible with one another;
• significant exposure to water or household cleaning products.

Perfect preparation: the key to long-lasting results

A long-lasting application always begins with careful preparation.

The essential steps are:

• sanitise your hands;
• gently push back the cuticles;
• remove dead skin;
• shape the nails as desired;
• lightly mattify the natural nail;
• remove all dust;
• apply a nail prep;
• use a primer where necessary.

Careful preparation significantly improves the adhesion of the products.

Choose professional-grade products

High-quality products ensure a more even application and greater durability.

At LuluNails Belgium, you’ll find, amongst other things:

• Professional Base Coat;
• Glossy or matt top coat;
• Semi-permanent nail varnishes ;
• Rubber Base Colour ;
• Flexible Builder Gel ;
• Builder Gels;
• preparation products;
• professional UV/LED lamps.

Our ranges are designed to offer excellent application quality and a professional finish.

Strengthen your nails with a Rubber Base

For thin or flexible nails, a Rubber Base is an excellent solution.

It helps to:

• strengthen the natural nail plate;
• improve strength;
• correct minor irregularities;
• minimise cracks;
• create a slight protective curve.

Rubber Base Colour also helps achieve a natural finish whilst strengthening the nail.

The builder gel for brittle nails

When nails are very brittle or when the client wants greater strength, a builder gel may bebe preferable to a simple semi-permanent polish.

The gel allows:

• provide a more resistant structure;
• distribute mechanical stresses;
• to correct certain irregularities;
• to strengthen natural nails;
• to apply extensions.

A well-constructed structure helps to minimise the risk of breakage.

Observe the curing times

Inadequate curing is a common cause of hold problems.

To ensure proper polymerisation:

• use a suitable UV/LED lamp;
• follow the curing times specified by the manufacturer;
• avoid applying layers that are too thick;
• Check the condition of your lamp regularly.

Insufficient curing can result in a more brittle and less durable finish.

The essential role of the Top Coat

The Top Coat protects the manicure against:

• scratches;
• minor knocks;
• everyday wear and tear;
• loss of shine.

It is the final, essential step in a professional manicure.

Treating the free edge

A common mistake is forgetting to protect the free edge of the nail.

‘Sealing’ the free edge with Base Coat, colour and Top Coat helps to prevent seepage and improve the longevity of the manicure.

Moisturise the cuticles

Well-maintained cuticles contribute to the beauty of the manicure.

Regularly applying a nourishing oil helps keep the skin around the nail supple.

This routine also enhances the client’s comfort.

Protecting your hands on a daily basis

To keep your manicure looking its best:

• wear gloves when doing household chores;
• avoid harsh chemicals;
• do not use your fingernails as tools;
• avoid repeated knocks.

These simple steps will help your nails last longer.

Mistakes that reduce durability

Certain habits reduce the durability of your manicure:

• pulling off the gel;
• peeling off the polish;
• filing the surface excessively;
• using incompatible products;
• applying coats that are too thick;
• forgetting to apply the top coat.

Avoiding these mistakes helps to maximise the lifespan of your manicure.

Gel or semi-permanent nail varnish ?

The choice depends on the type of nails and the client’s expectations.

Semi-permanent nail varnish is ideal for natural nails in good condition.

building gel is often recommended when greater strength is required or to correct the shape of the nails.

A professional will be able to advise the client on the most suitable technique.

The best colours for an elegant look

Some shades are timeless:

• nude pink;
• natural beige;
• classic red;
• Baby Boomer;
• French Manicure;
• Milky white.

These colours remain elegant for the entire duration of the treatment.

Why choose LuluNails Belgium?

LuluNails is:

• 🇧🇪 a Belgian brand specialising in nail care;
• a wholesaler of professional products;
• a nail salon in Liège;
• a training centre for beginners and professionals.

Our products are used by both private individuals and beauty salons.

Professional training courses in Liège

Would you like to learn how to apply long-lasting nail extensions?

LuluNails training courses teach you:

• how to prepare the nail;
• how to use a nail file;
• the builder gel;
• coating;
• semi-permanent nail varnish;
• French manicure;
• the Baby Boomer;
• top-ups;
• techniques to improve the durability of manicures.

Our courses are suitable for beginners as well as professionals looking to improve their skills.

FAQ

How long can a manicure last?

A well-applied and properly maintained manicure can remain aestheticallyfor several weeks. The exact duration depends on the technique used, the natural growth of the nails and the client’s habits.

Is gel more durable than semi-permanent nail varnish?

Gel generally provides greater structure and strength, particularly on brittle or long nails.

Why is my gel manicure peeling off?

There can be several reasons: inadequate preparation, poor curing, contact with the cuticles, unsuitable products or insufficient aftercare.

Is a Rubber Base useful?

Yes, it is particularly useful for strengthening thin or flexible natural nails.

Conclusion

Achieving strong nails that last for several weeks depends above all on careful preparation, high-quality professional products, a well-and appropriate aftercare.

With the products and expertise of LuluNails Belgium, a Belgian brand based in Liège, you can benefit from professional solutions to create long-lasting, elegant and durable manicures, whether using semi-permanent nail varnish, Rubber Base or builder gel.