What is the cause of nail enamel peeling away from the nail plate?

The cause of nail enamel peeling away from the nail plate is primarily related to the enamel being applied too thickly. When nail polish is applied in thick layers, it can create an uneven surface that is prone to chipping, cracking, and peeling. Thick layers take longer to dry, which increases the likelihood of the layers separating from one another as they do not bond properly with the natural nail surface. This improper adhesion leads to the enamel lifting and ultimately peeling away from the nail plate.

While excessive exposure to water can also contribute to enamel peeling by causing the polish to lift at the edges, the primary factor in this instance is the application technique of the enamel itself. A base coat is intended to provide a barrier and improve adhesion of the color polish, which typically would not lead to peeling. Natural nail oils, while they can affect the adherence of nail products, are generally not a direct cause of peeling when the application of the enamel is done correctly.