Pro gel pedis/manis - why do they ruin my nails?

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I have thin, weak nails - given up on having lovely hands but like to have pretty toes. Had gel pedi at local salon, very pleased with result initially but the gel polish seems to ruin my nails underneath. I haven't picked at it or used polish remover that I shouldn't so what it going wrong? Or should people with weak nails avoid gel polish as too drying?

There not drying, nails have water evaporating through them so polish caps that off so they contain slightly more than before, it also traps the oil channels too, if you use nail oil the nails resist damage better.

You do get used to the super smooth feeling though & natural nails always have a slight texture.

If they were thin before they'll still be thin afterwards.

I have healthy nails but gel damages mine too - so much so that I don't feel I can use gel polishes at all ☹️. I think some of us just don't tolerate it well. I've found some good gel-effect polishes though (I use Nails Inc) which don't have the same destroying effect!

Is the beauty therapist over buffing them? That happened to me. I revived by using the CND rescue oil twice a day and keeping them short until they grew stronger.

Nailtiques 3 or 2+ is a fab nail strengthener.

I wouldn't bother with gel pedis. I use Seche Vite topcoat on my standard pedicure and the polish stays on a whole month without chipping.

I never do gel polish but maxfactor do a long lasting nailvarnish and it is amazing. Lasts for ages and covers a multitute of, i dunno, 'texture' nail issues. Dries shiny and not bubbly. LOVE it.

Thanks, was wondering if I should just DIY with 'normal' gel polish. But I love how long gel nails last (I swim a lot). SarahSue - what's name of the MF polish you mention? Need something gloopy & thick to get that lovely smooth shine & finish.

I'm not sure I haven't got it with me but I bought it a couple of years ago and it's still going strong - mine is a dark purpley red shade which probably helps but I am going to try a lighter shade in it this has reminded me. It's one of their very long lasting ones so ask for that - lasts 2 weeks for me - perfect!

I have a Japanese manicure booked for next week. It's supposed to be the pooch's cajunas for weak nails and those damaged by gels and Shellac. I have high hopes.

UV light damages our skin, so it can also damage our nails. Any process which involves buffing, which thins the nail, followed by UV curing is going to damage even the toughest nails over time.

Ruby please report back!! Sounds v promising...

Certainly will! I am beyond excited. My life is very small...

Had 'normal' pedi today. Toenails are b*ggered. At least summer is nearly over so I can hide them in socks.

(Stumbles in) Had the Japanese manicure today. It's essentially a lot of rubbing of various ginseng loaded pastes and pearlised powders into your nails and buffing off with a chamois leather cloth. Lots of attention to the nail bed and cuticles. Took about 25 minutes. Nails look very pink and white (will try and upload a photo later) trim and smart. You can't wear polish for three weeks. Not excessively shiny or very buffed looking but certainly healthier. Manicurist does a lot of gels and she is recommending it for those with damaged nails. It's very gentle. It cost me £20 in Edinburgh. You can buy DIY kits online. Very pleased with their appearance.