10 Things You’re Doing Wrong at the Nail Salon — and How to Fix Them

How many times have you gone to the nail salon for a mani, pedi, or a mani-pedi? Twice? Ten? So many that keeping track is a useless endeavor? (Guilty as charged.) It seems like it’d be simple at this point — show up, stretch out your hands, and you’re done — but there’s more to it than you might think. From not-so-sanitary buffer blocks to the nail-art design you’re dying to cop, a lot of factors go into that Insta-worthy mani, leaving more room for mistakes. Click though for all the ways you might be slipping up — and what to do to get your best salon experience ever.

Mistake #1: Being TOO fixed on your nail art
Even if you did your homework and have eighteen screenshots of the nail art you’re after, you might not get the exact same look, especially if the design is intricate or really detailed. Your nail bed might be too small for a specific design that you like, so be open to modifying it a little bit. Everyone’s nails are different. Plus, it’ll look better anyway if your tech adjusts the design to your nails instead of trying to squeeze it on them.

Mistake #2: Not hauling your own nail care kit to the salon
Some nail tools are easy to sanitize, and they have one thing in common: They’re metal. But in a sterilizer, a buffer block and paper file will melt. There’s no harm or shame in bringing your own. Stay away from shared foam blocks, buffers, or any non-metal tool.

Mistake #3: Showing up late…with gel nail polish
We love gel nail polish as much as the next girl (hi, manicure that lasts two weeks without chips) but taking it off can take for-freaking-ever. If you’re getting a mani and still have gel polish on your nails, call ahead. We can make sure you have plenty of time in your appointment and aren’t rushed. Your tech can budget 15 to 20 minutes into the schedule to safely remove it for you.

Mistake #4: Touching your bare nails after they’re buffed
You know the urge: Your shiny, smooth, freshly-buffed nails are just waiting for you to touch them. Don’t do it! In order for a manicure to last, the base coat should be applied to a clean nail that’s free of oil and debris. If you touch them at all, you might transfer oils from your fingers, which may prevent the base coat from adhering and lead to chips.

Mistake #5: Shaving the morning of your pedicure
It makes sense that you don’t want to subject the poor person giving you a pedi to your overgrown leg hair. But a quick shave the morning of may cause stinging mid-pedicure. Shaving your legs can cause your skin to be extra sensitive to the salt or sugar grains in the scrub. Trust me, technicians don’t judge and we prefer clients not to shave the same day they’re getting their pedicure. No shave, no shame!

Mistake #6: Assuming gel nail art is no maintenance
Pro: Gel nail art lasts for weeks. Con: Depending on the nail art you get, it’s not exactly invincible. Studs, spikes, or anything that takes a three-dimensional shape can sharpen with wear. Just because they’re small doesn’t mean they don’t hurt, so just be cautious. To dull them, put on some topcoat and or buff them a little bit.

Mistake #7: Not swatching shades ahead of time
Not sure if you’ll like a color? Easy solution: Test it before you commit to it. Misleidys suggests choosing a range of colors and talking it out with your nail tech. That way, if you hate it, you don’t have to sacrifice the cuticle oil and base coat when removing it.

Mistake #8: Staying quiet when you’re worried about the product or procedure
Allergic to lavender? Does the scent of rosemary make you sick? Say something. Always let your technician know before the service so she can adjust accordingly if she needs to. Between cuticle oils, scrubs, and hand creams, a lot of ingredients are coming into contact with your skin — and it’s better to be on the safe side rather than risk hands covered in hives.

Mistake #9: Watching your friends’ Snapchat stories mid-manicure
A good mani can take some time, and that doesn’t include the minutes wasted on texts to your mom (we love you!) and taking Snapchats of the cute salon. Moreover, one misplaced swipe can result in a big smudge. In order to get the best mani results in the most efficient amount of time, leave your phone until after your nails are completely dry. Plus, going iPhone-free lets you indulge in what should be relaxing, enjoyable time to yourself.

Mistake #10: Digging through your purse for your wallet — and then digging through your wallet — to pay
Something we can all identify with: The moment when you try to slide your credit card or cash out of your wallet without wrecking your fresh mani. Pay for your services before sitting down for your manicure to avoid messing up your nails. Also, stash the tip in an easily accessible spot beforehand to minimize the chances of a rogue smudge or chip while reaching for that, too.

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