No, you should not clip your nails with gel polish on.
Applying gel polish creates a strong, sealed layer over your natural nail. Clipping or trimming your nails after the gel has been applied and cured with a UV light is highly discouraged.
Why Avoid Clipping Nails with Gel Polish?
According to experts like Ling Lin, trimming your nails breaks the protective seal formed by the gel polish at the tip of your nail. This seal is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the gel manicure.
- Breaking the Seal: When you clip the nail tip, you are physically disrupting the continuous gel layer and the bond it has with the nail.
- Increased Vulnerability: A broken seal makes the gel polish much more susceptible to damage.
- Potential Issues: This significantly increases the risk of:
- Chipping: Small pieces of the gel can break off.
- Peeling: The gel layer can lift away from the nail, often starting at the weakened tip.
- Snagging: The damaged edge can catch on clothing or other objects.
Instead of clipping, it is recommended to let the gel manicure grow out naturally until you are ready for removal or a fill. If the length becomes problematic before then, consult with a professional nail technician for appropriate solutions that won't compromise the manicure.
