Use a sticky basecoat
Using a good base coat protects your nails from discoloration, while also helping to strengthen your nails (which in turn minimizes breakage). Opt to use a sticky base coat because, as the name suggests, nail polish sticks to it better.
Try: SuperChic Bring It On Base Coat, $7.95
Roll instead of shake
We all do this when before we use nail polish — and yes, it helps to mix the formula and coat the brush. However, this technique actually creates bubbles in the polish, which can mar your mani and lead to chipping. Instead, roll the bottle between your palms. It's not quite as satisfying as a hearty shake, but it'll be better for you in the long run.
Image via Blanchi Costela/Moment/Getty
Avoid the cuticles and skin
Nail polish doesn't really stick to your skin — so when you go beyond the nail plate and apply some to your cuticle, you risk peeling off the polish (off the nail as well). No one's perfect, and this happens all the time — just be sure to clean it off right away with a nail cleaning brush dipped in acetone to avoid any potential peeling. Trying to keep your polish about a millimeter away from your cuticle can also help.
Try: Twinkledt Kolinsky Professional Nail Cleaning Brush Size #2, $9.99
Apply two thin coats
The longevity of your polish also lies with its application. A golden rule to keep in mind is when the polish is thicker, it's also easier to peel off. With opaque colors, two thin coats should be enough. If you're using pastel or neon colors, try applying a white nail polish first so you don't have to apply bajillion coats to really make the color pop.
Patience is important when applying. You've got to wait until the previous layer is dry before adding a new one. (This applies for the basecoat and top coat as well.)
Try: Color Club Nail Polish in White, $7.12
Paint the free edge
Chipping usually starts on the free edge, but there's a way to avoid it: When you apply your base coat, nail polish, and top coat, always ALWAYS seal it on the free edge. Painting the edge protects the tips from chipping easily. This part is oftentimes missed when applying nail polish, so take note the next time you do your nails.
Image via Miroslav Marinkovic/EyeEm/Getty
