The first thing is to make sure the product, acrylic or gel, doesn’t come in contact with the skin. When this happens there is a pocket between the nail plate and product that can cause lifting.
Consistency is another cause. Depending on the product line you are using, the margin for error differs greatly. The greater number of particle sizes in a polymer will allow for wider error (a little too wet or a little too dry) in consistency. I always suggest taking a manufacturer’s class to learn the proper technique for that particular line.
The last would be finishing around the cuticle to achieve a better seal. -- MaeLing Parrish is the co-owner of Nail Sensation in Columbus, Ohio, and was first runner-up for Nail Technician of the Year in NAILS’ 2006 AVAs.
Make sure you’re keeping the product off the skin. You should be able to get the bristles of your brush between the product and the cuticle. If the product dries on the skin, it’s not sealed to the nail plate; therefore, when the nail grows it pops away from the cuticle and lifting will occur. This also applies to the sidewalls.
Also, make sure you have a thinner application at the cuticle and free edge. If those areas are too thick then the pressure will cause lifting. Finally, make sure you are using a clean liquid for each client. If your liquid is cloudy that too can cause lifting. -- Mary Seitzinger is the co-owner of Nail Sensation in Columbus, Ohio, and was Nail Technician of the Year in NAILS’ 2006 AVAs.