Why doesn't the manicure last? It all starts with the proper preparation of the natural nail plate

When a manicure doesn't last, the first thought is usually the color, the base, or the top coat. We rarely look back at the beginning, at the preparation of the natural nail plate. And yet, this is the step that determines everything.

No matter how well the other products are applied, if the nail plate has not been prepared correctly, the result will not last as long as it should. Conversely, proper preparation is what ensures that the client will return after three to four weeks satisfied with the result.

Step 1: Matting the surface

The first step is to lightly run a buffer over the nail surface, just enough to make it matte. No pressure is needed. We simply want the surface to lose its natural shine and acquire a light texture that will allow subsequent products to adhere effectively.

Step 2: Removing cuticles

Removing the cuticles is not just an aesthetic procedure; it is a necessary part of a complete preparation of the natural nail plate.

When cuticles are not removed correctly, the product comes into contact with them, resulting in lifting and the manicure starting to peel from those points.

Step 3: Cleaning with Nail Cleaner

After removing the cuticles, we clean the surface with ONYX Nails Nail Cleaner.

The Nail Cleaner is specifically designed to remove dust, residue, and especially the moisture present on the nail plate.

Moisture and oiliness are the greatest enemies of adhesion, and no primer or base can compensate for a plate that has not been properly cleaned.

One point worth mentioning: many technicians use pure alcohol instead of a specialized nail cleaner. However, the two products are not the same. Most nail cleaners are based on isopropyl alcohol, which is highly effective for degreasing and preparing the natural nail plate. Conversely, common alcohol usually contains ethyl alcohol and often additional ingredients or water, which can affect the effectiveness of the degreasing. Even worse, if it contains glycerin, then instead of degreasing the plate, we make it oily.

Step 4: Nail Prep

ONYX Nails Nail Prep is an additional dehydrator applied after the Nail Cleaner.

Technically, it is optional. In practice, however, for specific cases, it is what changes the result. Clients with difficult nails or a history of manicures not lasting as long as they should are exactly the cases where Nail Prep can make the difference.

Step 5: Primer

The primer is applied after the Nail Prep and is the final step before the base.

Primer Acid Free: It works like double-sided tape, enhancing the adhesion between the natural nail plate and the base we will apply.

Primer Acid Based: It is applied to more difficult nails, dehydrates the surface more intensely, and requires correct use and dosage.

Powerbond: It resembles the Primer Acid Free but has a stronger effect. It cures and requires 30 seconds in the lamp, but it is worth the wait as it performs excellently even in more demanding cases.

In any case, a basic rule applies to primers: less is more.

Step 6: Base

After we have completed the above steps, we can proceed with the application of the base.

Classic Base: For simple gel polish. It is applied as a thin layer and is ideal when the goal is a simple color with long duration.

Great Base: For reinforced gel polish. It offers extra durability and is ideal for fragile or flexible nails.

Rubber Base: Ideal for nails that break easily and need reinforcement. It offers strength and flexibility, while it is also available in many shades.

Choosing the right base is just as important as all the previous preparation steps.

There is no one base that suits all cases. Every natural nail plate has different needs and every service requires a different approach.

The better we can assess the client's nail, the easier it is to choose the right base and achieve maximum possible durability without lifting.

The secret behind longevity

Preparation is the part of the process that is often underestimated, yet it determines the adhesion, durability, and overall longevity of the result.

Because a beautiful manicure catches the eye. However, a properly prepared manicure is what remains flawless for weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always need to use Nail Prep?

Nail Prep is optional, but it can significantly improve adhesion in cases where nails frequently lift or have increased moisture. For many technicians, it is a key step of the preparation.

What is the difference between Nail Prep and Primer?

Nail Prep dehydrates the nail surface and removes moisture. Primer is applied afterwards and allows the base to adhere to the natural nail plate, acting like double-sided tape between the nail and the base.

Are all Nail Cleaners the same?

No. Not all Nail Cleaners have the same composition. Some products contain fragrances or other additives. ONYX Nails' Nail Cleaner consists of 100% isopropyl alcohol, without additives, aiming for effective cleaning and preparation of the natural nail plate before the application of products.

Can I use alcohol instead of Nail Cleaner?

No. Alcohol is not designed for the preparation of the natural nail plate. A professional Nail Cleaner is specially designed to effectively clean the nail surface and prepare it before the application of the rest of the products, contributing to proper adhesion and the longevity of the result.