Want to achieve a long-lasting, salon-quality gel manicure at home? The secret isn’t just in the polish—it’s all about proper nail prep! Skipping essential prep steps can lead to chipping, lifting, or uneven application. In this quick and easy guide, we’ll walk you through 3 foolproof nail prep steps to ensure your gel polish goes on smoothly and stays put for weeks. Whether you're a DIY gel enthusiast or a beginner, follow these expert-approved tips for a perfect, long-lasting mani! 3 Easy Steps to Prep your Nails for Long-Lasting Nails: Start by ensuring that your nails are shine and oil free by wiping them with either a lint-free cloth or cotton bud doused in acetone. It's really important that there is no shine or oil on the nail or the gel polish won't sick and will peel off. Use side 3 of the 7 Way Nail File Buffer or a nail file to etch each nail plate. Ensure that the nail surface is slightly rough and properly etched as this will ensure maximum gel polish adhesion. Apply a layer of Perfect Prep™ Primer which dehydrates the nails and creates a hospitable environment for maximum builder gel and gel polish adhesion. Proper nail prep is the key to a flawless, long-lasting gel manicure. By removing shine and oil, gently etching the nail plate, and applying a quality primer like Perfect Prep™ Primer, you’ll create the perfect base for your gel polish to adhere seamlessly. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll enjoy chip-free, salon-quality nails that last for weeks! Ready to achieve the perfect gel mani? Watch our Perfect Prep video here!