How to care for your nails after a manicure or pedicure
After applying gel polish
To keep your gel polish glossy and long-lasting, avoid soaking your hands in hot water for extended periods (washing up, hot baths) during the first 24 hours after application: the resin needs time to set completely. Wear gloves for housework, and don't scratch or peel off the polish yourself — you risk pulling away the polish or part of the nail's surface. To keep the skin around the nail supple and extend the look of your manicure, apply a cuticle oil every day. A good gel polish, applied correctly, lasts two to four weeks depending on your lifestyle.
After a Brazilian hand or foot treatment
Your hands and feet have just been exfoliated and massaged, so the skin is more permeable for a few hours. In the hours that follow, avoid any irritating products (detergent, alcohol, etc.) without protection. Moisturise your hands and feet morning and evening with a rich cream for the three to four days after the treatment to prolong that soft, smooth feeling. For the feet, ideally wear cotton socks at night after applying a nourishing cream: the warmth helps the product penetrate and keeps the heels supple for longer. Between sessions, two habits are essential to prevent calluses from returning: a weekly foot scrub and regular moisturising.
Caring for your nails between sessions
Always file in a single direction to avoid weakening the nail fibre. Don't use your nails as tools (scratching, opening, prising things apart): this is the leading cause of breakage and splitting. Finally, eating enough biotin, zinc and essential fatty acids contributes directly to the strength and growth of your nails.
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