There’s nothing quite like a sun-soaked summer day - blue skies, warm breezes, and a fresh manicure to match. But if you’ve ever noticed your nail colour fading, yellowing, or slightly changing shade after sun exposure, you’re not imagining it. UV gel polish, while known for its durability, can be affected by prolonged sunlight. So how can you enjoy the sun without sacrificing your manicure?

Here’s everything you need to know about preventing discolouration and keeping your UV gel polish looking flawless all summer long.

Why Does UV Gel Polish Discolour in the Sun?

UV rays can affect the chemical structure of UV gel polish over time, especially when exposed directly and frequently to sunlight. The most common signs of discolouration include:

• Yellowing of lighter shades like white, nude, or pastel

• Fading or dulling of bright colours

• Subtle colour shifts, especially in neon or fluorescent tones

This is especially noticeable during the summer months, when we spend more time outdoors, at the beach, or by the pool.

Tips to Prevent Sun-Related Discolouration

Luckily, there are a few simple ways to protect your manicure from the sun’s harsh rays and keep your polish looking fresh:

1. Always Use a High-Quality Top Coat

A good top coat is your first line of defence. Semilac’s UV top coats offer not only a high-gloss finish but also added protection against UV rays. Look for formulas that include UV filters or stabilisers to help prevent fading and yellowing.

2. Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure Just After Application

Give your UV gel polish some time to fully settle after curing. Although UV gel polish hardens under the lamp, it's best to avoid intense sunlight for the first few hours post-application to reduce the risk of early discolouration.

3. Use Sun Protection for Your Hands

It might sound unusual, but applying sunscreen to your hands can help! Just be sure it’s fully absorbed before your manicure, as oils or creams can interfere with application. Alternatively, UV protective gloves are a great option if you're planning extended sun exposure.

4. Store Your Polish Correctly

Don’t forget about your bottles! Always store your UV gel polish in a cool, dark place. Direct sunlight can alter the consistency and colour of the UV gel polish inside the bottle, even before application.

5. Choose High-Quality Products

Not all UV gel polishes are created equal. Semilac’s UV gel polishes are made with carefully selected pigments and stabilisers to help maintain colour vibrancy even in summer conditions. Investing in a trusted brand makes all the difference.

Best Sun-Safe Shades

Some colours naturally fare better in the sun. Consider these sun-resistant picks from Semilac:

• Rose Beige – a timeless nude that resists yellowing

• Intense Red – bold and fade-resistant

• Pastel Lavender – pastel with staying power

• Mint – refreshing and surprisingly resilient

Enjoy the Sun Without Sacrificing Your Style

With just a bit of extra care, you can enjoy long summer days and keep your UV gel polish looking fresh, vibrant, and exactly the colour you picked. After all, summer is for making memories - not worrying about your manicure!