What is a common characteristic of gel polish when improperly applied?

A common characteristic of gel polish when improperly applied is that it will pool around the cuticles. This issue often arises when there is an excess of product on the brush or if the application technique is not precise. When gel polish pools at the cuticles, it can create an unappealing appearance and may lead to adherence issues, as resin needs to properly bond with the natural nail surface. This pooling can also increase the risk of lifting, since the polish is not applied evenly and could lead to premature wear.

In contrast, the other options relate to different consequences that might occur, but they are typically not direct results of improper application. For instance, chipping might occur due to various factors such as wear and tear or insufficient curing, rather than just poor application technique. Drying too quickly is not a common issue with gel polish, as it is designed to cure under a UV or LED light, thus allowing for controlled drying. Lastly, gel polish is known for its shiny finish rather than a matte one, unless a specific matte topcoat is intentionally applied. Therefore, the pooling around the cuticles effectively captures a notable characteristic of improper gel polish application.