How to Grow Out Gel Overlays Safely: A Nail Care Guide

Question
Hi, I've had gel overlays for the last few months, my original objective was to stop the habit of picking at my nails. After they recently lifted and popped off I was going to stop getting them done - except my nails looked terrible and were quite thin and flakey (not painful though). I have now had more overlays applied (they look nice again) but I want to know if I can I grow them off - just getting gel applied to the area it has previously been applied to (ie. not the new nail growing).  Would be grateful for your advice.  Many thanks, Tanya.

Answer
Hi Tanya,
Yes, you can absolutely grow them off. I would suggest that you find a nail technician that will work with you in doing this. You will most likely need to get a manicure once a week to keep your nails in great shape. Be sure the apply a nail strengthener every day while growing them out. Creative Nail Design is launching a new product line in May called Shellac. It is a soak off gel product that lasts two full weeks with no chipping. Maybe that would be a good answer for you so that you can have your own nails underneath, but healthier and stronger :)

Brooke Gilliam

PS- I do have one friend in NZ that is a nail tech, her name is Esther Huntley, and she lives in Wanganui, New Zealand. Just in case she is close by, you never know!