Products to help my nails stop chipping?

Aug 30, 2015

Lucy B.

Hi girlies! So my nails chip all the time! It's very annoying. And none of my products are working. Please help! Thanks! Xox

Aug 30, 2015

T K.

This isn't necessarily products, but hope this still helps 😊

How do I prevent chipping?


Ok so before I begin, let me say that while my suggestions are based on experience and research, what works for me might not work for you necessarily.

First off, what polishes do you use? While cheap polishes like L.A. Colors are great for wanting a variety of colors without paying the price, they are of much lower quality than more expensive brands. You get what you pay for. But I find that with certain higher end polishes, you pay for the name not the formula. I personally find Essie and OPI to be overrated. I'd much rather buy a Zoya polish, which is the same price if not a bit cheaper.

Here is a ranking of brands based on longevity (In my opinion)

Zoya - I cannot express how much I love this polish. They are all super lasting, I own about 20 and each one seems to last longer than the one before.

Formula X- I own a few of these, and they last like nobody's business.

Nails Inc -I own 4 gel effect polishes, which yes last longer due to the fact it was created to mimic a gel manicure, but they are definitely worth looking into.

Loreal- I have a ton of loreal polishes, and they are pretty lasting. They can last for up to a week with a good top coat.

Sally Hansen - I love sally hansen's complete salon manicure line. These polishes are a complete manicure in just two coats, and that means they last.

I could add more, but I only own a few in those brands, and I don't feel like I can give a real understanding about the longevity based on just two polishes from the brand.


Secondly, do you use a base and top coat? I cannot stress how important these two steps are. With a good base and top coat, any polish will last, even ones from the dollar store. I recommend Essie all in one base coat and no chips ahead top coat. I know I said Essie was overrated, but I just meant their color polishes. I feel like Essie has a great treatment collection. If you want a matte finish, I recommend NYC Matte Me Crazy.
When applying a top coat, make sure to seal in the tip of your nail as well. This prevents shrinking as well as chipping.

Thirdly, are there oils or debris on your nails? One tip to make your mani last is to make sure your nails are thoroughly clean before beginning. Do you apply lotion or cuticle oil before you paint your nails? Continue applying those before hand, but use a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol or nail polish remover and wipe your nails clean. This gives you a clean slate to work with. Anything on the nail prevents the polish from fully sticking to your nail, resulting in chips and peeling.

Last and certainly not least, take care of your nails. If you are doing dishes, wear gloves. Be mindful of your nails when washing your hair. These small things could be ruining your mani, so just be mindful what you are doing with your hands and you will be good!

Aug 31, 2015

Swati K.

Lakme absolute gel finish top coat works good for me.  👌🏻

Sep 2, 2015

Zoe P.

Essie no chip top coat works so well for me!