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.
This is not to say that gel and BIAB manicures are inherently bad. Rebecca Crawforth, founder of nail brand Navy Professional, advises that, "Issues usually arise from over-buffing, repeated infills, or aggressive removal. Over time, this thins the nail and disrupts its natural structure, leaving nails weak, flexible and prone to splitting." So how does a gel addict overcome battered, crumbly old nails? I asked the pros to share their wisdom.
Why I'm weaning myself off gel manicures, and how I plan to do it
There are many reasons why I'm prioritising care over colour - cutting my monthly spend, saving time, embracing a more casual aesthetic - but a primary reason was the UK gel nail ban on TPO, a potentially harmful ingredient found in gel polish that helps the curing process.
After an EU ban, the UK followed suit on August 15. The good news is this has forced gel brands that weren't already compliant to reformulate, but I can’t deny that all this chat has spurred me to take on a more considered approach.
So, I've quizzed the experts on the steps I need to take to restore my nails and keep them strong, in the absence of gels.
1. Being patient
"Healthy nails are built quietly, over time," says Crawforth. Consider nailcare as essential as your daily skincare routine. "Consistency is everything," she stresses. "Daily cuticle serum application, gentle maintenance and resisting the urge to over-buff or over-treat the nails will deliver far better results than any quick fix."
But how long until my paper-thin nails become stronger? "Most people notice their nails feel healthier within two to three weeks if they are consistent with daily care," says Crawforth. "A full nail grows from cuticle to tip in around four to six months, so long-term improvement relies on patience and maintaining good habits throughout that growth cycle."
Navy Cuticle Serum Pen
RRP: £9.95
Keep it in your handbag or on your desk as a constant reminder to apply and reapply. Like a vitamin shot for worn, weathered cuticles, it keeps everything hydrated to promote healthier nails.
2. Focusing on shape
If yours feel flimsy, like mine, you’ll be relieved to know that short, straight nails are very much in this year. "We’ve spent years in the era of long, almond-shaped nails, but 2026 is set to bring a noticeable shift with short nails taking the spotlight," says Lynn Mason, in-house expert at Mavala.
"Not only do they align perfectly with the rising trend of natural, healthy nails, but they also offer a look that’s clean, classic, and effortlessly elegant." Thankfully, keeping things short and tidy also means weak nails are less likely to break.
Margaret Dabbs London Crystal Nail File
RRP: £16
I find a crystal file is much gentler on my nails than those scratchy emery boards. The high-quality crystal means you can file in any direction, sealing the nail edge to prevent splitting.
Navy Doris 2.0 Curved Manicure Tool
RRP: £42
A bit of regular maintenance will do the trick to keep the nail bed neat. Use this curved edge to gently push cuticles back after your bath or shower.
Leighton Denny Trio Miracle Buffer
RRP: £6
This buffs up nails a treat, ironing out ridges, creating an instant shine that screams understated elegance. It’s the nail equivalent of a great exfoliant, leaving a smooth and sheeny finish.
3. Building a skincare wardrobe for my nails
Most at-home nail treatments cost far less, and last a lot longer - than a single gel manicure in a salon, so are a worthy investment on any nail health journey. "Hydration treatments should become a daily habit," stresses Crawforth. "Using one consistently helps restore flexibility and strength to the nail and surrounding skin. This can be paired with a breathable treatment base and gentle filing to encourage healthy regrowth."
OPI Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum
RRP: £29.90
Like a bond-building hair mask for nails, the breakthrough formula helps repair keratin bonds to build four times stronger nails in six days. A favourite on the beauty desk, it’ll immediately filter out that flaky, papery, post-removal appearance so nails look healthier.
Mavala Scientifique K+
RRP: £21
Just as you might seek out a targeted serum to tackle skin issues like wrinkles or pigmentation, there are specialist nail treatments designed to hone in on your specific concern. This serum helps nails become more resilient, leaving a glowing finish.
Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil
RRP: £11
Nail technicians agree that the most important thing you can do for healthy nails is to apply cuticle oil every day. Apply daily to boost circulation, stimulate growth, encourage bend and flex, and strengthen.
4. Embrace nail-enhancing shades and polishes
If you still want a bit of colour on your nails without booking a gel appointment, paint-on polish is your friend. Channel an airy, barely-there aesthetic with these sheer neutrals that enhance rather than mask your natural nails. Like makeup for your nails, these soft, glossy shades speak of nail health, and elongate the look of your fingers.
If your gripe with 'regular' polish is how quickly it chips, Crawforth has some sage advice: "Ensure nails are clean, dry and free from oil before applying polish. Always use a base coat and cap the free edge with both colour and top coat. Applying thin layers and allowing proper drying time helps improve longevity."
Manucurist Active Glow Raspberry
RRP: £16
One step up from completely bare, this flattering sheer blush makes nails look healthy, plump and clean. Think of it like a CC cream for battered nails, glossing over imperfections like an Instagram filter, with extra nail-nourishing perks.
OPI Nail Lacquer in Funny Bunny
RRP: £15.60
Celebrities, nail techs and brides fawn over this milky-white polish. One coat gives a sheer wash of colour that makes nails look clean and crisp, or build up to create a more opaque effect.
Mavala Nail Polish in Wichita
RRP: £6.80
“All colours look great on short nails,” says Mason, “but there’s nothing quite like a soft baby pink for a clean, put-together look. This delicate pink perfectly embodies the ultimate 'clean girl' aesthetic.”
5. Maintaining manicures
Taking a treatment-over-trend approach doesn't have to mean swearing off your local nail bar. If you love the treat of a salon nail appointment, getting care and advice from a nail technician will help keep nails strong, healthy and beautiful. For me, carving out an hour for myself is still important, and there's nothing like that fresh mani feeling.
Tellingly, many salons are moving with these treatment-led times with colour-free options like the Japanese manicure. On the menu at Townhouse is a 'Naked Manicure', which includes 30 minutes of flawless nail prep - shaping, cuticle care and moisturising, with a buffed, no-polish finish. "A naked manicure is about enhancing the natural beauty of your nails rather than masking them," explains Juanita Huber-Millet, Founder and Creative Director at Townhouse. "It is a look that whispers sophistication rather than shouting it." Now there’s a reason to go naked.
