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After a few too many gel manicures, it’s not unusual to notice your nails feeling thinner, weaker, or prone to peeling. That post-gel lull - when your nails have lost their strength and shine - is something every regular salon-goer knows too well. While it can be tempting to panic and start buffing, filing or slathering on every product within reach, the truth is that recovery takes patience, not punishment. Award-winning nail artist Jessica White sees this mistake all the time. “One of the biggest mistakes I see is people panic DIY-ing to [try to] ‘fix’ their nails. Over-filing, picking, or constantly buffing only causes more damage and slows recovery. The key is to be gentle, hydrate, and give your nails time to rebuild naturally.” According to White, the secret to a strong recovery lies in a balanced and consistent approach that focuses as much on hydration as strength. “I would recommend a combination approach, which includes regular use of a nourishing cuticle oil and a dedicated nail strengthener. With nail health, hydration is just as important as protein as dry nails are more prone to splitting and peeling.” She adds that gentle manicures, chemical-free formulas, and daily care can transform nails in just a few weeks. When it comes to ingredients, White’s rule is simple: feed your nails what they actually need. “Within nail products, I look for keratin, biotin, and peptides, which help strengthen the nail plate, and natural oils like jojoba, almond, or vitamin E for hydration. These ingredients support growth and resilience.” She recommends steering clear of harsh solvents or excess formaldehyde, which can make nails brittle. So, how long should recovery take? “Recovery depends on your nail growth rate and the level of damage, but generally takes 6 to 8 weeks for nails to fully bounce back.” Her final piece of advice? Start with hydration before moving on to strengtheners. “It’s the steady, gentle care that makes the biggest difference over time.” With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the most effective post-gel nail recovery treatments to help your nails rebuild their strength, shine and resilience.
