Nail Prep Mistakes — Before You Start
Proper prep means a clean, dry nail plate with no non-living cuticle residue. Most lifting issues trace back to inadequate prep.

Mis-adhesion Diagnosis
If lifting appears only at the skin line → likely non-living cuticle remains on the nail plate.
Chipping at the free edge → surface may not be dehydrated or edge not sealed.
Multiple nails chipping early → nails likely not scrub-cleaned and fully dried before applying liquids.

What Actually Causes It
The nail adheres poorly when non-living cuticles or oils block adhesion. Push back only the cuticle, do not harm living eponychium skin.
Buffing with a fine grit (e.g., 180–240) removes shine and improves grip without over-thinning.

Quick Fix (Mid-Service)
Wash hands, scrub nails with a sanitized brush, dry thoroughly.
Apply cuticle remover and gently clean off non-living cuticle using an orangewood stick or curette, avoid cutting living tissue.
Lightly buff (180–240 grit), dust off debris, then perform an alcohol or dehydrator cleanse.

Preventive Tips
Skip lotions or oils before prep; always begin with dry, clean nails.
Remove only the non-living cuticle.
Light buff, scrub-clean, and apply a dehydrator or brand-approved primer.

Essential Tools
Disinfected soft nail brush, buffer (180–240 grit), orangewood stick/curette, lint-free wipe, dehydrator prep.