Eight things every nail tech wishes you would stop doing before your next manicure

Don’t be that customer… (Picture: Getty)

As you offer your hands over to your nail tech, you’re settling in for an hour of me time – a great excuse to sit back and relax – you can’t even reply to a text.

But things could look a whole lot different over on the other side of the table.

Depending on the state of your hands and nails, your technician could be in for a tough job.

They want to make sure you leave the salon with a great mani – but we don’t always make it easy for them.

Want to help make their life a little less stressful?

Metro.co.uk spoke to nail techs from nail salon Townhouse, who offered up eight tips to consider ahead of your next trip to the salon…

Don’t peel off your gel polish. We get it, you’ve chipped your nails and the urge to peel off the rest of the polish is almost too much to resist. Your nail tech won’t even notice, right? Well, they do. Doing this can lift off layers of your natural nail and damage them, making it difficult to reapply. 

Avoid pre-cutting your nails. We all have a preferred nail length, but refrain from pre-cutting your nails before your next appointment. If you do a DIY job, it can result in uneven or improperly shaped nails, complicating the technician’s job to offer the best shape for your nails.

Stop picking at your cuticles. Biting your nails and picking at your cuticles can make them more sensitive and prone to damage. It also makes life tough for the tech, as they have to be extra careful to avoid any discomfort for you during your treatment. Try to break these habits to ensure healthier nails.

Beware of skin-staining products. Be cautious of products like fake tan, paint or certain foods that can stain your nails and skin. Stains can be challenging to remove and can affect the appearance of your manicure.

Step away from the hand cream. While it’s essential to keep your hands and nails moisturised, avoid applying excessive lotion or cream right before your appointment. Too much moisture can affect the adherence of nail polish, potentially causing premature chipping or peeling. Too much moisture can also create a barrier that prevents proper bonding.

Use gloves for household chores. Remember to wear gloves when doing things like cleaning, gardening, or any task that could chip or damage your nail polish. There’s no point in your nail tech going to all that trouble, if you don’t look after their hard work. Gloves protect your manicure and maintain its longevity and will avoid any extra visits in the interim.

Stop fidgeting. Clients who fidget during a manicure can pose difficulties for nail techs. Steady hands are essential for precision work. Fidgeting or sudden movements can lead to smudges, uneven polish application, or even accidental harm to the customer.

Limit your phone use. While it’s common to check your phone to pass the time, excessive phone use can distract the nail technician, potentially slowing down the process. It can become challenging for the technician to provide the best quality manicure if the client’s hands are constantly moving.

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Step away from the fake tan…