How to Make Your Manicure Last Longer

How to Make Your Manicure Last Longer

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.

  • Remove any old polish using a gentle nail polish remover

  • Eliminate oils and residue that can prevent adhesion

  • 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.

colour lover cosmetics

Step 2: Apply in the Right Order

Here’s the ideal application process for maximum wear time:

  1. Base Coat – This helps polish adhere better and prevents staining

  2. Color Polish – Choose one designed for long wear (look for “long-lasting” or “chip-resistant” on the label)

  3. Seal the Free Edge – Lightly brush polish over the nail tip to protect against peeling

  4. 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:

  • Washing dishes

  • Cleaning with household chemicals

  • 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:

  • Formulated for long wear

  • Quick-drying, self-leveling, and easy to apply

  • 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