Picture the scene; you’ve spent hours getting dressed, painting your nails and doing your hair and make-up especially for your big night out.

But just as you reach to pull on those strappy shoes that nail polish, you so lovingly coated on a mere five hours ago, chips. Yes, we can see you getting as wound up as we are, just thinking about it.

Nail chipping is a very common problem that has happened to at least 99% of us unlucky ladies. So what can you do to minimise this and prevent your blood pressure from rising just before that big night out?

We’ve put together some tips and also spoken to nail expert Sue Shillum of Feel Fabulous to help ensure chipping doesn’t happen.

Read on for our list of tips.

Tip 1: Make sure your nails are clean.
We’re not just talking just about old bit of varnish here. Apparently the natural oils on your nails are also a big alliance to chipping. Therefore, before you begin wipe down your nails with nail varnish remover to get rid of these.

Tip 2: Use a base coat.
Like an eye shadow primer, which keeps your shadow on for longer, nail varnish also needs a sticking point. Using a base coat will therefore ensure the varnish clings onto your nails for longer and won’t chip as quickly.

Tip 3: Always buy a quality nail varnish.
Good quality nail varnish is thicker and means you don’t have to pile on the polish. Three to four thin coats thinly applied is better than 2 thick coats, which will last longer, cut down on drying time and cause fewer chipping bubbles brewing on your nails. Sue says she uses varnishes, which give a perfect “‘one coat” colour, such as Jessica and Chanel nail varnishes.

Tip 4: Add some sparkle
Manicures may look nice, but choosing a varnish with a bit of sparkle is a better bet if you want long lasting nails. This is because the little particles of sparkle will help the varnish cling to your nails.

Tip 5: Always apply a topcoat.
This acts like a barrier between the varnish and the outside world, meaning chips won’t happen. It’s also wise to keep this little miracle product handy and top up daily for maximum protection.

Tip 6: Be a lady of leisure for at least half an hour after you’ve painted
Sue advises us to Make sure your appointment/last minute self painting is after your house
chores. She also advises us to allow half an hour for them to set.

Tip 7: Get the marigolds out
To prolong the life of your nails wear gloves for housework and washing dishes, you may not realise it at the time but hot water along with those cleaning products (think about what has to go into them to remove greases and marks) will weaken the polish, and if it doesn’t chip at that point, it will at some point of the day.