TPO-free and firm: this is how you prevent lifting of nails

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TPO-free formulas and lifting: causes of nail lifting and how to prevent it

TPO-free formulas are becoming increasingly popular among nail technicians. They are safe, modern, and free from substances like HEMA and TPO. Yet, many professionals notice that clients sometimes experience lifting – the product separating from the natural nail. In this article, you’ll discover why this happens, what the causes are, and most importantly: how to prevent lifting when using TPO-free nail products. This way, nails stay strong and beautiful for up to five weeks.

What is nail lifting (and why does it often occur with TPO-free gels)?

Lifting means that the product (base, gel, or polish) detaches from the natural nail plate. It usually starts near the cuticle or the sides and can lead to air pockets or chipping. Important: lifting is rarely caused by TPO-free formulas themselves, but mostly by mistakes in preparation, application technique, or equipment. A well-prepared nail always adheres better — regardless of the formula.

Cause 1: preparation of the nail and nail plate

Proper nail preparation is the first and most important step to prevent lifting. The adhesion of any nail product depends on the condition of the nail plate.

  • Always perform a thorough manicure.
  • Carefully remove pterygium.
  • Clean the nail plate from dust and oils.
  • Use a professional dehydrator.

Verin PREP is the ideal nail dehydrator. It removes excess moisture and oil without drying out or thinning the nail plate. A nail that’s too dry or damaged cannot hold product and will cause lifting instead. Many nail techs search for “proper nail prep for polish” or “how to prepare nail plate without lifting” — the answer is: use a professional PREP.

Cause 2: primer

After preparation comes the primer. Here, not only the application method matters, but also the formula.
Verin Primer is a HEMA-free and TPO-free primer for nails. Since primer is the first product that directly contacts the natural nail, its safety is essential. The primer ensures strong adhesion between the base and the nail plate, preventing lifting.
Many stylists ask: “why does the base lift off the nail?” In most cases, the cause is an incorrect or unsuitable primer.

Cause 3: choosing the right nail base

The choice of base determines whether nails stay lift-free. The base is the answer to the question: how to prevent nail lifting.

  • Verin Silicone Base – a favorite among clients and stylists. Provides up to 5 weeks of wear, even on problem nails. Suitable for hard and soft gels. The true base without lifting.
  • Verin Medium Base – medium consistency, ideal under gel polish. Smooths the nail plate and ensures long-lasting adhesion without lifting.
  • Verin Base LV – thin, liquid base. Adheres perfectly to dry, soft, or thin nails. Safe and universal thanks to the HEMA- and TPO-free formula.

With the right base choice, the question “causes of nail lifting” disappears naturally.

Cause 4: nail lamp

Many stylists experience lifting not because of the base, but because of the wrong lamp. A common mistake: thinking that a lamp emitting light always cures properly. In reality, that’s often not the case.

  • Check the power of the lamp.
  • Choose a wavelength suitable for the photo-initiators in TPO-free formulas.
  • Replace LED bulbs on time (on average, after one year of use).
  • Use professional equipment with verified curing times.

Insufficient curing is one of the most common causes of nail lifting. Always use a reliable nail lamp designed for modern TPO-free formulas.

Cause 5: shelf life and product storage

Even the best nail products can cause lifting if stored incorrectly or past their expiration date.

  • Always check the production and expiration dates.
  • Store products in a cool, dark place — not next to a lamp or in direct sunlight.

Cause 6: incorrect removal of old product _s

One of the most common questions: “how to remove nail products without damaging the nail?” This is crucial to ensure a new system adheres long-term without lifting.

  • Leave about 5% of the old product _ if no lifting is present.
  • Do not over-file the natural nail plate.
  • Do not damage the nail during removal.

If the nail is over-filed, the new base will always cause lifting.

Cause 7: mixing products from different brands

Another common mistake is combining products from different brands. Each formula is developed as one system, and mixing brands can lead to chemical incompatibility.
The best practice for stylists is to work within one system: Verin PREP → Verin Primer → Verin Base (Silicone, Medium, or LV). This ensures all products work perfectly together and prevents lifting.

Checklist: perfect adhesion without lifting

  • Prepare the nail plate correctly.
  • Use Verin PREP and Verin Primer (HEMA-free, TPO-free).
  • Choose the right base: Silicone Base, Medium Base, or Base LV.
  • Work with a high-quality and properly functioning lamp.
  • Check the shelf life and storage of products.
  • Remove old _s carefully, leaving 5% of product.
  • Use products from one brand for maximum compatibility.

Follow these steps and you’ll never need to Google “what to do about nail lifting” again. Your clients will enjoy a perfect, long-lasting manicure for up to 5 weeks — without lifting, irritation, and with safe TPO-free formulas.

Frequently asked questions about lifting and TPO-free formulas

Why does lifting occur with TPO-free products?


It’s not the formula but the application. Insufficient preparation or curing can cause lifting, even with the best products. Always use the right lamp and follow the steps carefully.

Are TPO-free nail products less strong?


No. TPO-free products from professional brands like Verin are just as durable as traditional gels when used correctly. They also offer a safer alternative for people with allergies.

What’s the difference between HEMA-free and TPO-free?


HEMA is a common allergenic component in nail products. TPO is a photo-initiator. HEMA-free formulas protect against skin irritation, while TPO-free formulas offer extra safety during curing. Together, they form the new standard for healthy, long-lasting nails.

Which TPO-free base is best against lifting?


That depends on the nail type: Verin Silicone Base for problem nails, Verin Medium Base for gel polish, and Verin Base LV for thin or dry nails. All three are HEMA- and TPO-free, ensuring long-lasting adhesion without lifting.
All TPO-free formulas by Verin are developed for professional use and comply with European safety standards. This way, you work safely, effectively, and achieve perfect results.

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