TGB Academy
Jul 1

How to Fix Cracked Gel Nails: Professional Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting a Cracked Gel Nail: A Guide for Nail Techs

As a professional nail technician, you aim to provide your clients with flawless, long-lasting gel nails. However, cracked gel polish can sometimes occur, causing frustration for both you and your clients. Knowing how to troubleshoot and fix cracked gel nails is essential to maintaining client satisfaction and ensuring their nails look impeccable. Here’s a detailed guide to help you address and prevent cracked gel nails.  

Understanding the Causes of Cracked Gel Nails

1. Insufficient Nail Preparation:

  • Incomplete Cleansing: Failing to thoroughly cleanse and dehydrate the natural nail can prevent the gel from adhering properly.  
  • Insufficient Buffing: Not buffing the nail surface can result in poor adhesion, leading to cracks and lifting in the gel polish.  

2. Poor Application Techniques:

  • Thick Layers: Applying gel polish in thick layers can cause uneven curing and increase the likelihood of cracking.  
  • Incomplete Curing: Improper curing time or using a UV/LED lamp without the right output can lead to an uncured gel nail polish layer that is prone to cracking.  

3. Improper Client Aftercare:

  • Nail Trauma: Clients who are prone to using their nails as tools or who expose them to physical stress, water and chemicals without using gloves can cause the gel polish to crack.  
  • Temperature Changes: Exposure to extreme temperature changes can cause the gel to expand and contract, leading to cracks.  

4. Product Compatibility:

  • Incompatible Nail Systems: Using products from various brands that aren’t formulated to complement each other can lead to poor adhesion and cracking.  

Troubleshooting and Fixing Cracked Gel Nails

1. Assess the Damage:

  • Level of damage: Assess how extensive the cracked nail is. Is it just a surface crack on the gel polish, or has the natural nail split under the enhancement?   Surface damage can be easily repaired, while more extreme damage may require a complete nail rebuild.  
  • Client Consultation: Talk through the repair options with your client to determine if they prefer a swift touch-up or a full nail reconstruction.  

2. Fast Nail Repair for Small Cracks:

  • Gel removal: Carefully file away the existing gel from the affected nail using a manual file or our Portable E-File, taking care to protect the underlying natural nail. 
  • Surface Preparation: Proper nail preparation is essential — push back cuticles and trim if needed, then lightly etch the nail surface for optimal adhesion. Explore the TGB Tools Range and ProBits for all your nail prep essentials. 
  • Cleansing Process: Use a Lint-Free Wipe soaked with IPA or Acetone to thoroughly cleanse the nail, eliminating any residual oils or particles. 
  • Base and Colour Application: Start with a fine layer of a TGB Base Coat, curing under the TGB Light the Way Nail Lamp for 99 seconds on Low Heat Mode. Follow with your chosen shade of gel polish with 60-second curing intervals per coat. 
  • Final Sealing: Complete with Extreme Shine Top Coat (or your chosen TGB Top Coat) across the full nail surface. Cure for 60 seconds as standard, or opt for the Low Heat Mode (99 seconds) if your clients have nail sensitivity. 

3. Total Nail Repair for Cracked Gel Nails:

  • Gel Removal: Carefully file away the existing gel coating from the affected nail using a manual nail file or TGB E-File, ensuring the natural nail remains undamaged. 
  • Prep Work: Your nail prep is an essential step. Make sure that cuticles are fully pushed back and nipped using TGB’s ProNip and ProPrep tools, and the nail has been etched.  
  • Cleansing Stage: Use a Lint-Free Wipe soaked in IPA or Acetone to thoroughly cleanse the nail surface, eliminating any oils or residue. 
  • Select Form or Tip: For nails requiring reconstruction, assess the client’s nail structure to determine if a Nail Form or nail tip extension will best suit their specific repair requirements.
  • Base Application: Apply a fine layer of your preferred TGB Base Coat and cure using our Nail Lamp for 99 seconds on Low Heat Mode. 
  • Apply Enhancement: Follow TGB’s application guidance to apply your selected enhancement method, whether that’s BIAB™ or GelPot. 
  • Colour Application: Apply your chosen gel polish colour, ensuring each coat is cured for 60 seconds. 
  • Top Coat Layer: Complete with a full coverage layer of Extreme Shine Top Coat. Cure for 60 seconds as standard, or extend to 99 seconds on Low Heat Mode for clients with sensitive nails. 

Preventing Future Repairs for Cracked Gel Nails

1. Proper Nail Preparation:

  • Deep Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the natural nail so that it is free of oils and debris before starting the gel application.  
  • Nail Etching: Lightly file the nail surface to achieve a subtle textured finish to promote superior bonding. 

2. Correct Application Techniques:

  • Even layers: Build up gel nail polish in thin, uniform coats to guarantee proper curing and durability.  
  • Optimal Curing: Use a high-quality UV/LED lamp with the appropriate power output, curing each coat for the advised length of time. Use the TGB Light the Way Nail Lamp with TGB products for best results. 

3. Client Education:

  • At-home maintenance: Provide clients with guidance on maintaining their nails between appointments. Advise them to use protective gloves when cleaning or exposing their hands to moisture and harsh chemicals. 
  • Jewels, not tools: Encourage clients to avoid treating their nails as tools to open packages or can

Mastering Gel Nail Repair: Your Path to Client Satisfaction

Cracked gel nails can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix these issues. By understanding the causes, implementing proper application methods, and educating your clients on nail care, you can minimise the occurrence of cracked gel nails and maintain the high standards of your nail services. Prioritising client satisfaction through careful troubleshooting and prevention will keep them coming back for your professional expertise.