I've decided to ditch gels and revive my weak, paper-thin nails - here's how I'm doing it

A close-up picture of a hand with bare, healthy-looking nails, alongside the Navy Professional nail cuticle pusher and the Sally Hansen cuticle oil/ on a white and grey marble-effect template.

I love gel manicures, but as summer comes to a close, I'm swearing off them in pursuit of healthier nails.

If the 2026 nail trends are anything to go by, it's going to be a 'bare nail Autumn,' with those in the know prioritising treatments that strengthen and nourish. This care-first, colour second mindset appeals. I am evangelical about tracking my steps, sleep and stress levels on my Oura ring. And yet, I’ve been blinkered to my own nail health, covering the proverbial cracks with back-to-back gel manicures.