Common Nail Polish Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Whether you're a DIY nail enthusiast or a seasoned salon-goer, applying nail polish seems simple—until it chips within hours, bubbles appear, or the colour streaks unevenly. Nail polish application is a beauty routine that requires a bit of technique, patience, and the right products. Below, we explore the most common nail polish mistakes and how you can fix—or better yet, avoid—them for a long-lasting, professional-looking manicure.

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Skipping Base Coat

One of the most overlooked steps in any manicure is the base coat. It might seem like an unnecessary extra layer, but skipping it can lead to stained nails and uneven polish application. A base coat acts as a barrier, smooths the nail surface, and helps the colour adhere better. Fix: Invest in a good-quality base coat that suits your nail type—whether you need strengthening, smoothing, or ridge-filling properties.

Applying Thick Coats

It can be tempting to get opaque colour in one swipe, especially with bold shades like black nail polish. But thick coats take longer to dry and are more likely to smudge or bubble. Fix: Always apply two to three thin coats, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next. This ensures better control, smoother texture, and longer wear.

Not Prepping the Nails Properly

Oils, lotions, and even water can interfere with how your polish adheres to the nail. If your nails are too moist or oily, polish won’t bond well and will chip quickly. Fix: Start with clean, dry nails. Wipe each nail with a bit of nail polish remover or alcohol to eliminate oil and residue before beginning your manicure.

Flooding the Cuticles

If you're not careful with brush control, it's easy to flood your cuticles with polish. Not only does this make the manicure look messy, but it can also cause peeling or lifting around the edges. Fix: Leave a tiny gap between the polish and your cuticle. Use the three-stroke method: one in the centre, one on each side, and stop just short of the skin.

Skipping Top Coat

Think of the top coat as your manicure’s shield—it adds shine, protects against chips, and locks in colour. Skipping it dramatically shortens the life of your polish. Fix: Use a high-quality top coat and reapply every few days to extend wear. For a quick-drying option, go for a top coat specifically designed for fast finishes.

Not Sealing the Edges

Chipping often starts at the tips of your nails. One major reason? Not sealing the free edge of your nails with polish and top coat. Fix: Lightly run your brush across the tip of each nail after applying colour and top coat. This helps prevent premature wear and strengthens the overall finish.

Shaking the Bottle

Shaking your nail polish bottle before application can cause bubbles, which show up in the final result. Fix: Roll the bottle gently between your hands instead. This mixes the formula evenly without introducing air bubbles.

Using Expired or Thickened Polish

Old nail polish becomes thick, stringy, and hard to work with, leading to a streaky, uneven finish. Fix: If the polish is slightly thick, use a few drops of nail polish thinner—not remover—to revive it. If it’s more than a couple of years old or smells off, it’s time to toss it.

Avoiding these common mistakes can instantly elevate your at-home manicure game

From choosing the right products to mastering application techniques, a little care goes a long way. Whether you're going for a classic nude or bold black nail polish, following these tips will help you achieve a flawless, chip-resistant finish every time. Ready to upgrade your polish routine? Start by investing in high-performance formulas that dry quickly, last longer, and care for your nails in the process.