Nail Hack: Fix a Chipped Nail at Home Until Your Appointment

Quick answer: For chipped regular polish, buff the chip smooth, dab matching color only on the bare spot, let it dry, then add top coat over the whole nail. For a small tear in your natural nail, a tiny piece of tea-bag paper and clear coat can hold it. With gel or dip, don't peel: file the rough edge and book a fix.

Regular polish chip: the 5-minute fix

1. Gently buff the edges of the chip with a soft file so there is no ridge.
2. Dab a thin layer of the same color just on the bare spot.
3. Let it dry for two minutes, then add a second thin dab if needed.
4. Finish with a clear top coat over the whole nail to blend it.

Small tear in your natural nail

1. Cut a tiny piece of paper from an empty tea bag.
2. Brush clear base coat over the tear and press the paper on.
3. Add two more thin layers of clear coat and buff smooth.

It is a temporary patch. Keep the nail short until it grows out.

Gel, dip or acrylic chip

• Don't peel or pick. It strips layers of your natural nail.
• Don't superglue. Glue traps water and can cause lifting.
• Do file the sharp edge so it doesn't snag, and cover with a bandage if it hurts.
• Do call or text us to book a repair or a fresh set.

Prevent the next chip

Cap the free edge when you apply top coat, wear gloves for chores, and keep nails a length that suits your lifestyle. More ideas in how to make your manicure last longer.

Common questions

Can I use superglue on a broken nail?

It's not recommended. Glue can trap water under the nail, cause lifting and irritate the skin. Use the tea-bag method and book a repair.

How do I stop a torn nail from catching?

File the edge smooth in one direction, add a coat of clear polish over it, and keep the nail short until it grows out.

Can a salon fix one broken nail?

Yes. Call or text us to book a repair. Your nail tech will let you know the price before starting.

Keep reading

• Gel Manicure Aftercare: What to Do in the First 24 Hours
• Nail Shapes Guide: Almond, Coffin, Square, Oval or Stiletto?

Visit Diamond Nails

Ready for your next appointment? Book online or call or text (678) 473-1057. We're at 3780 Old Norcross Rd, Suite 105 in Duluth, open Mon–Sat 10am–7pm and Sun 11am–5pm. See the full price menu and current offers.