How Often Should You Get Your Nails Done? It Depends on Your Nails

The short answer: every 3 to 4 weeks. But that's an average. Remember only the number and you'll sometimes go too early (wasted money) or too late (harm to your nails). What's worth learning is how to read your own nails.

Why 3–4 weeks

Fingernails grow about 3 mm a month. After three weeks the new growth at the base is clear enough to show a gap between gel and skin, and the set starts to look "old". Growth varies by person and season — faster in hot weather. Fast growers see the gap at two and a half weeks; slow growers keep a set looking good for five.

Four signs it's time

• The gap at the base is wider than 2–3 mm. The clearest sign.
• The gel edge feels raised when you run a finger over it — it's separating.
• Cloudy white spots under the gel. Moisture has got in — go early, don't wait.
• Nails catch on hair or fabric. The edge has partly lifted.

If you see cloudy spots or notice an odd smell, don't pry the gel off yourself. Have it removed properly and checked at the salon.

Three signs your nails need a rest

Few salons say this, because it means selling less.

1. The tip curls up as it grows — the nail has become thinner.
2. The surface ripples — usually from over-filing in the past.
3. Tenderness when pressed lightly — the nail is too thin; rest now.

With any of these, give your nails 2 to 4 weeks off. You can still keep them neat: cuticle care, oil, a strengthening base instead of colour gel.

Fills — the middle option

If the set still looks good and only the base shows, a gel fill covers the new growth and keeps the rest. It costs less than a new set and, more importantly, avoids a full removal, so your natural nail goes through less. You can fill once or twice before a new set.

Making each set last longer

• Cuticle oil every evening.
• Gloves for washing up.
• Don't use nails as tools.
• Re-apply top coat after two weeks if you have one at home.

In short

Use 3–4 weeks as a guide, but let your nails decide: a widening gap means go; thin, rippled or tender nails mean rest. At VESSCA your technician checks your natural nails before every visit and will tell you plainly if they need a break.

VESSCA is at 251/30 Le Quang Dinh, Gia Dinh ward (Binh Thanh), Ho Chi Minh City, open 9:00–20:30 daily.