Even the most flawless UV gel manicure isn’t completely immune to life’s little accidents. Whether you’ve chipped a corner while opening a parcel, noticed lifting at the cuticle, or smudged a nail before curing, don’t panic – it doesn’t mean redoing the entire set.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you quickly fix a damaged UV gel manicure and keep your nails looking salon-fresh.

1. Assess the Damage

Start by taking a close look. Is it a minor chip? A full-on crack? Some lifting at the edge? Knowing the extent of the problem helps determine the best fix.

For small chips: A touch-up and top coat will usually do.

For larger damage or lifting: You may need to file, buff, and reapply colour on the affected nail.

2. File and Smooth the Area

Use a fine-grit nail file to gently shape the chipped area. Buff lightly to blend any rough edges and create a smooth surface for the next steps.

Top tip: Avoid over-filing – you just want to smooth the surface, not thin the nail too much.

3. Cleanse the Nail

Use a nail cleaner or a lint-free wipe soaked in isopropyl alcohol to remove dust and oils. This ensures better adhesion for your repair.

Don't skip this step: Clean nails - longer-lasting fixes.

4. Reapply Colour if Needed

If you’ve lost some colour, apply a thin layer of your UV gel polish to the damaged area. Cure it under your UV/LED lamp as normal.

Pro tip: Feather the edges slightly to blend with the original polish – this will make the fix less noticeable.

5. Top Coat to the Rescue

Seal everything in with a fresh layer of UV gel top coat – either on the repaired nail or across all nails for a consistent finish. Cure again, and you’re done!

Bonus: This not only fixes the damage but refreshes your whole manicure.

Emergency Nail Repair Kit – What to Keep Handy

• Nail file and buffer

• UV gel base and top coat

• Your current UV gel polish colour

• Cleaner and lint-free wipes

• UV/LED lamp

Final Thoughts

A damaged UV gel manicure doesn’t have to ruin your week. With a few quick steps, you can patch it up and carry on confidently. Whether it’s a tiny chip or a more noticeable lift, a fast fix is totally doable with the right tools and know-how.