GeL nails and gel manicures
Gel nails and gel manicures have surged in popularity over the past few years. Unlike traditional polish, gel products are cured under a UV or LED lamp, allowing them to harden instantly and maintain a chip-resistant finish for weeks. It can get a little bit confusing when talking about gel products because there are a few, and which one you use affects the application and removal process. One thing they have in common is that all gel products need to be cured using a UV or LED light.
One type is gel overlays. These are painted onto the natural nail in the same manner as nail polish and are used to give the nail more fullness, hide ridges and bumps, and smooth the nail. They are self-leveling, adding to the ease of application. The gel overlay reinforces the natural nail and creates a strong, flexible, and glossy finish. Removal of soft builder gels is by soaking in acetone.
Next, we have soft builder gel/soft gel extensions. These are full-cover soft gel tips that are attached to the natural nail with a gel bonder and cured under UV light. They can be left natural or painted with gel polish. They are lightweight and thin, giving a more natural appearance compared to acrylic nails. They are designed to be soaked off in acetone. Gel X is a popular soft gel application.
Hard gels are a different type of gel and come in pots with lids rather than in a bottle. Hard gels hold their shape much better than soft gels and are used for creating nail extensions. Hard gels can be used with nail tips or applied using nail forms or even using dual forms. Both of which are cured with UV light and need to be filed off for removal. Hard gel is not difficult to work with, especially once you get used to it.
Polygel is also a gel-type application, although more difficult to work with. Polygel is a mix of acrylic and gel. I much prefer to use hard gel. My go-to application is to use a non-sticky hard gel with dual forms. It produces a perfectly smooth finish every time, needs minimal filing to adjust the length, and is then ready to paint. Hard gel comes in various color shades, such as clear, peach, different shades of pink, and there are even some that contain glitter.
I used to fight with acrylic applications, and for that reason, pretty much gave up on doing my own nails. Hard gels have made it possible for me to do my own nails and be very happy with the results. Gel polishes are also something that’s made a world of difference. No more sitting around waiting for nails to dry! 45-60 seconds under the nail light and polish is hardened to a durable and shiny finish, lasting 2-3 weeks without chipping or peeling.
Gel polishes come in every color imaginable. They also come in a huge variety of types and finishes such as: Cremes, Shimmers, Pearles, Glitters, Jellies, Holographic, Cat Eye, Magnetic, Matte finish, Metallic, Color Changing, Glow In The Dark, Crellies, and more.
