Although gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can be tough on nails. Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk for skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands.

Picking at your gel manicure is really bad for your nails. It not only peels away the polish, but the top layer of your nail too. This damages it, weakening the nails, so they are more prone to rough textures and white patches. It also makes them more susceptible to cracking and breaking.

Particles and dried out liquid, or a gooey, thick texture can all be signs that a polish may be past its expiry. If the polish has separated and you can't mix it together with a good shake, that's another sign you should throw it out.

First off, keep your nails dry and clean; moisture and dirt can weaken the gel. Steer clear of harsh chemicals; they're the enemy of your gel's shine. Also, give your nails a break now and then; back-to-back gel applications can stress your nails out.