Want Long-Lasting Nails? Start with the Right Prep
We all love a fresh coat of polish, but with busy schedules, daily touch-ups just aren’t realistic. So what can you do to make your manicure last?
Let’s start from the very first step: nail prep.
Step 1: Prep Your Nails Properly
Before reaching for your polish, make sure your nails are clean and ready.
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Remove any old polish using a gentle nail polish remover
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Eliminate oils and residue that can prevent adhesion
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You can swipe with alcohol or simply wash your hands with soap and water
Pro tip: Dry, clean nails help polish bind better and prevent early lifting or bubbling.

Step 2: Apply in the Right Order
Here’s the ideal application process for maximum wear time:
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Base Coat – This helps polish adhere better and prevents staining
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Color Polish – Choose one designed for long wear (look for “long-lasting” or “chip-resistant” on the label)
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Seal the Free Edge – Lightly brush polish over the nail tip to protect against peeling
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Top Coat – Locks everything in and adds protection from chips and dullness
Depending on the top coat you use, you can also add shine, a matte finish, or quick-dry benefits.
Step 3: Protect Your Hands = Protect Your Nails
Your daily routines expose your hands to water, heat, detergents, and friction — all of which wear down your manicure.
The solution?
Wear rubber gloves when:
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Washing dishes
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Cleaning with household chemicals
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Doing any task that exposes your hands to water for long periods
This one change can dramatically extend your manicure — and as a bonus, it keeps your hands soft and moisturized.
Our Formula = Longer Lasting + Healthier Nails
Our 10-free, plant-based nail polish is:
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Formulated for long wear
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Quick-drying, self-leveling, and easy to apply
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Strengthened with Hexanal and Red Seaweed Extract for improved nail resilience
Want a manicure that looks great and protects your nails from peeling and breaking? Try our bestselling long-lasting nail polish collection.
What Are Your Favorite Long-Wear Tips?
We love hearing your tricks for making polish last longer. Leave a comment or tag us on social to share your hacks!
Have fun painting your nails,
Your Colorly Cosmetics Team