Happily, there are a number of steps you can take to avoid heat spikes. The obvious one is to give your nails a lengthy break from gel and acrylic manicures altogether, particularly if they have become thin and weak over time as a result of filing and buffing. Streets suggests taking supplements and applying a daily slick of cuticle oil to moisturise nails and the surrounding skin. If you do head back to the salon, Francis advises asking your manicurist whether their chosen UV/LED lamp corresponds to the brand of gel nail polish or builder gel they’re using to minimise potential complications. A professional nail lamp often boasts fixtures which reduce heat spikes, such as slow-curing settings and pulsing lights, says Francis. Nail artist and content creator, Sadie Jordan, rates The Gel Bottle Light the Way lamp, £142.80. “It’s also important to use high-quality and reputable products and to apply thinner layers,” says Francis, especially when it comes to builder gel.
