A professional manicure or pedicure looks beautiful the day you have it done, but a little care at home keeps it looking fresh for far longer and keeps your natural nails healthy underneath. Here is how to look after your nails between salon visits.
Moisturise Your Nails and Cuticles Daily
Nails and cuticles need hydration just like skin. Applying cuticle oil or a nourishing hand cream daily keeps the area supple, prevents painful hangnails, and supports healthy growth. This single habit makes the biggest visible difference, especially in Bali’s sun and salt water, which are drying.
Protect Your Hands
Many manicures are damaged not by wear but by chemicals and friction. Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes, and try not to use your nails as tools for opening or scraping things. Frequent contact with water and cleaning products is one of the fastest ways to lift polish and weaken nails.
Mind the Pool and Sea
Chlorine and salt water can dull polish and dry out nails. Rinse your hands and feet with fresh water after swimming and reapply cuticle oil to keep everything conditioned.
Caring for Gel, BIAB, and Builder Gel
Longer-lasting finishes like gel and BIAB are durable, but they still benefit from care. Never peel or pick at lifting gel, as this takes a layer of your natural nail with it and causes real damage. If a nail chips or lifts, book in to have it properly removed or repaired rather than fixing it yourself.
Do Not Force Removal
Resist the temptation to peel off gel or builder gel when it starts to grow out. Professional removal protects the natural nail underneath, keeping it strong for your next set.
Keep Nails Trimmed and Filed
Between appointments, gently file any rough edges in one direction rather than sawing back and forth, which can cause splitting. Keeping length even prevents snags that can lift polish or break a nail.
Support Healthy Nail Growth
Strong nails start from within. A balanced diet, good hydration, and not overloading nails with constant product all help. If your natural nails feel weak, giving them an occasional break between sets, paired with diligent oiling, helps them recover.
When to Rebook
Most gel and builder gel finishes look their best for two to three weeks before regrowth becomes noticeable. Booking your next appointment before things start lifting keeps your nails consistently neat. Explore our nail services, including the Russian manicure, on the treatments menu and book your visit to Korra Spa.
