With summer officially here and holiday season in full swing, there is one detail no sandal-wearer should overlook: their toenails. A gel polish pedicure lasts weeks longer than regular polish — meaning you can paint your toes before you fly and still have perfect nails on the plane home.
Here is everything you need to know about doing your own gel pedicure at home with Chroma Gel.
Why Gel Polish is Perfect for Pedicures
Toenails take a real beating in summer. Flip-flops, pool water, sunscreen, sand — regular nail polish simply does not hold up. Gel polish cures hard under a UV or LED lamp and creates a chip-resistant finish that lasts two to three weeks, even on toes.
Chroma Gel’s 1 Step Gel Polish is especially brilliant for pedicures because it bonds directly to the nail without a separate base coat. Fewer steps, quicker application, and one less thing to pack in your holiday bag.
Prep: The Step Most People Skip
Great results start before the colour even goes on. For toes, follow these steps:
- Soak and soften: Soak feet in warm water for five to ten minutes to soften cuticles and any rough skin.
- Push, do not cut: Push cuticles back gently with a cuticle pusher rather than cutting them. This reduces the risk of irritation.
- File the shape: Square or rounded both work well for toes. File gently in one direction to avoid splitting the nail.
- Buff the surface: A light buff removes ridges and helps the gel bond properly.
- Cleanse and dry: Wipe each nail with a lint-free wipe to remove all traces of oil. This step is non-negotiable — gel will not adhere to oily nails.
The Best Summer Colours for Toes
Toenails are a brilliant place to go bold. Here are the colour families that look stunning in sandals this summer:
Coral and Orange
A perennial holiday classic. Warm coral shades give a sun-kissed look that complements tanned skin beautifully. Try pairing a coral toe with a contrasting shade on your fingers for a modern, mismatched look.
Bright Red
Timeless, confident, and universally flattering. Red toenails never go out of style and pop brilliantly against bronzed skin. A great choice when you want something polished without any faff.
Neon and Tropical
If you are headed somewhere hot and want nails that match the energy, neon pinks, vivid turquoise, and electric yellow are having a serious moment this summer. Apply over a white gel base for maximum vibrancy.
Nude and Sheer
For a barely-there look that still reads as groomed, a warm nude or soft pink gel works quietly brilliant. It is the nail equivalent of “no-make-up make-up” — understated but unmistakably intentional.
Browse the full range of summer shades in the Chroma Gel 1 Step collection to find your perfect holiday colour.
Application Tips for Toenails
Toenails are larger than fingernails, which sounds easier — but they require slightly more care:
- Apply in thin, even coats. Thick layers can trap heat under the lamp and may lift or bubble.
- Cap the free edge: Seal each coat across the tip of the nail to prevent chipping from the end.
- Use a toe separator to keep toes apart while you cure — smudging in a hurry is the most avoidable mistake.
- Cure each coat for the full recommended time. Toenails can be slightly thicker, so do not rush the lamp.
- Finish with a no-wipe top coat for a high-shine finish and extra durability.
Looking After Your Nails in the Sun
Sun, sea, and salt are wonderful for the soul but less kind to your nails. A few things to keep in mind while you are away:
- Apply sunscreen before your sandals go on rather than rubbing it over your nails, which can affect the finish.
- Rinse feet with fresh water after swimming in the sea or pool to remove salt and chlorine.
- Keep cuticles moisturised — dry cuticles can cause lifting at the nail edge, especially in the heat.
When You Get Home: Safe Removal
After two to three weeks, it will be time to remove your gel and either reapply or give your nails a short rest. Our guide on how to safely remove gel polish at home walks you through the full soak-off process without causing damage. Always follow up with a nourishing cuticle oil or foot cream to restore moisture.
Pack Light, Look Polished
One of the great joys of a gel pedicure is that it genuinely travels with you. No touch-ups, no smudging in the taxi, no chipped polish by day two. Paint your toes the night before you travel, and you are sorted for the entire trip.
Explore the full Chroma Gel summer collection and find your perfect holiday shade — from sun-drenched corals to bold neons, classic reds, and everything in between.