Even if your work looks stunning, certain subtle mistakes in technique can quietly ruin durability — and your client’s satisfaction.
From poor apex placement to inconsistent sealing, these common technical errors often lead to lifting, breakage, or return visits with complaints.
Let’s break down the top issues to avoid.
Summary Table of Mistakes
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Under-application on sidewalls | Weak edges, break easily |
| Free edge too thin | Breaks with light impact |
| Incorrect G-point | Poor balance, prone to snapping |
| Wrong powder-to-liquid ratio | Lifting, weak structure |
| Poor cuticle cleanup | Lifting near skin, early peeling |
| Product flooding sidewalls (phồng) | Lifting in chunks, discomfort |
| Uneven shaping | Crooked nails, one side weaker |
| Thin or missing clear coat | Scratches easily, dulls quickly |
| Over-filing during shaping | G-point collapse, nail breaks at stress zone |
| Over-buffing | Surface scratches, top coat lifts |
| Not sealing free edge with top coat | Shine fades, polish chips early |
1. Errors From Incorrect Application Techniques
Under-application on the sidewalls
Not applying enough acrylic or gel along the nail’s sides makes shaping more difficult and leaves the sidewalls too thin.
This causes uneven stress distribution, making the nail more prone to cracks — especially visible in the G-point when viewed from the side.
Free edge too thin
A free edge that lacks proper thickness can't withstand minor impacts like tapping or daily tasks.
This is a frequent issue for clients who use their hands intensively (typing, cooking, cleaning).
Incorrect G-point placement
When the apex sits too close to the cuticle or too close to the free edge, it disrupts the nail’s structural balance, increasing chances of cracking or bending during normal use.
Powder-to-liquid ratio errors
- Too dry: Weak adhesion to the natural nail, often lifting within 5–7 days.
- Too wet: Difficult to control, prone to air bubbles, weakens the structure.
2. Errors in Cuticle Cleanup & Forming
Poor cuticle preparation
Leaving any cuticle behind before applying product leads to the product bonding to skin — not the nail — resulting in lifting around the sidewalls within days.
Product flooding the sidewalls
When product is placed too close to the cuticle walls and not blended smoothly, air pockets form.
These pockets lift the product outward, creating the sensation of nails "falling off in chunks."
Uneven side-to-side structure
If one side is built stronger or thicker than the other, the nail may look crooked and will flex unevenly under pressure, increasing the likelihood of breakage.
Incomplete clear coverage over design
When using glitter, marble, or colour blends, applying a clear top layer that’s too thin leads to scratches, making the design look worn faster.
3. Mistakes During the Finishing Step
Over-filing the apex or sidewalls
This removes the natural G-point and significantly weakens the nail.
Without the apex, the nail bends at the middle — the stress zone — and breaks more easily.
Over-buffing
Buffing too hard creates deep scratches that the top coat cannot fill.
These grooves compromise the shine and can cause premature top coat peeling.
Not sealing the free edge
If you skip sealing the tip with top coat, even gentle handwashing or small knocks can lift the product from the free edge.
This leads to faded shine and chipped colour.
Final Thought
Many of these mistakes are small — but their effects on retention, appearance, and client satisfaction are big.
Mastering small refinements in application and finishing ensures stronger nails, longer wear, and happier clients.