A beautifully applied UV gel polish manicure should last up to three weeks. But what if your UV gel polish starts lifting after just a few days? Or even hours? If you're noticing issues like peeling around the cuticles or chipping at the free edge, it’s time to take a closer look at your technique.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most common mistakes that affect adhesion and longevity - and explain how to get your UV gel manicure to last as long as it should.

1. Poor Nail Prep - Poor Adhesion

One of the most common reasons UV gel polish lifts or peels is inadequate nail preparation.

What to watch out for:

• Oily nail plate: Natural oils prevent proper bonding.

• Dust or residue: Even the smallest particles can create barriers between your nail and the base coat.

• Moisture: Applying polish on damp nails will cause lifting.

How to fix it:

✔ Thoroughly dehydrate and cleanse the nail using Semilac Nail Cleaner.
✔ Use a buffing block to lightly mattify the surface for better grip.
✔ Always wipe the dust away with a cotton pads soaked in cleaner.
✔ Wash and dry your hands before starting your manicure - no lotions or creams!

2. Touching the Skin with Product

If your base coat, UV gel polish, or top coat touches the cuticle or sidewalls, lifting is almost guaranteed.

Why?

UV gel polish that gets on the skin can’t cure properly and creates a weak point that causes peeling.

How to fix it:

✔ Apply thin layers and stay slightly away from the cuticles (about 1 mm gap).
✔ Use a fine brush for precise application near the edges.
✔ Push back cuticles properly with a wooden stick or cuticle pusher before applying any product.

3. Incorrect Base Application

The base coat is the foundation of every UV gel manicure. If it’s applied too thickly, unevenly, or not cured properly, adhesion will suffer.

How to fix it:

✔ Apply a very thin, even layer of Semilac base coat.
✔ Cap the free edge to prevent premature chipping.
✔ Cure it under a UV/LED lamp according to the exact product instructions - under-curing can weaken the whole structure.

4. Skipping Free Edge Sealing

The free edge (tip of your nail) is where chipping starts. If it’s not properly sealed, your polish will start to peel quickly - especially if you use your hands a lot.

How to fix it:

✔ Every layer - base, UV gel polish, and top - should be gently brushed over the edge of the nail.
✔ Don’t overload the tip with product, just ensure it’s sealed.

5. Using the Wrong Lamp or Wrong Curing Time

Even the best UV gel polish won’t last if it isn’t cured properly. Weak curing leads to soft layers that peel.

How to fix it:

✔ Always use a certified UV/LED lamp (Semilac offers several models).
✔ Follow the manufacturer’s recommended cure time for each product.
✔ Make sure your bulbs are functioning properly and your nails are placed correctly inside the lamp.

6. Too-Thick Layers

Thick layers of UV gel polish don’t cure well and lead to product shrinkage, lifting, or bubbling.

How to fix it:

✔ Apply two thin coats of Semilac UV gel colour, curing each layer separately.
✔ Thin layers - better adhesion, even coverage, and stronger wear.

7. External Factors: Water, Chemicals, and Oils

Even the perfect manicure can fail due to everyday habits.

Avoid:

• Soaking hands before application (nails swell and contract)

• Applying hand cream or cuticle oil before curing

• Cleaning with harsh chemicals without gloves

Pro tip:

✔ Wait at least one hour after application before showering or soaking your hands.
✔ Wear gloves when cleaning.
✔ Use cuticle oil only after the manicure is complete and fully cured.

Watch Our QUICK EDU Tutorial

Problems with adhesion? UV gel polish peeling at the cuticles or chipping at the tips?

👉 Watch our latest QUICK EDU guide and find out whether you're making any of the key mistakes that affect your manicure’s durability.

We’ll show you step-by-step how to improve your prep and application technique for flawless, long-lasting results - every time.

Final Thoughts

If your UV gel manicure isn’t lasting, don’t get discouraged. Most issues come down to small, easily fixable errors. With the right Semilac products and a bit of practice, you can enjoy a beautiful, chip-free manicure that truly lasts.

Explore our full range of UV gel polishes, base coats, top coats, and prep essentials - designed to deliver salon-quality results at home.