Have you had enough of the way your regular manicure chips after a few days? Welcome to the universe of gel nails!
These glossy miracles that last long first came
out and went viral in the world of fashion and beauty sector and that’s for sure.
But how can you maintain them in good condition?
Let’s discuss about all the steps in gel nail maintenance from application until taking them off and above this point.
The Gel Nail Revolution: Why They Are Worth All the Talk
Gel nails are not just for temporarily; they are a game changer in the world of manicures
Unlike traditional polish, gel nails offer:
- Durability (lasting up to 3 weeks)
- Instant drying
- Chip resistant finish
- High shine gloss
But where did this magical manicure come from? Gel nails first appeared in the 1980s but were mainly being offered in salons as a service.
Move time to today and there are gel kits for use at home at every cosmetic supply store around your locality. Talk about revolution in nail industry!
Prep Like a Pro: Setting the Stage for Long Lasting Gel Nails
Have you ever heard this phrase, “failure to prepare is preparing to fail?” This saying is true for gel nails as well! Good preparation will always be the key to having a durable manicure.
The Clean Canvas: Proper Nail Prep Techniques
- Remove old polish completely
- Gently push back cuticles
- File nails to desired shape
- Buff the nail surface lightly
- Cleanse nails with isopropyl alcohol
Pro tip: Avoid soaking your nails before application.
When nails are soaked in water, they expand, and once they get dry, they shrink thereby causing lifting.
Cuticles and How They Should Be Taken Care of Post Application
For your nails to be healthy, you must ensure that the cuticles remain well maintained.
Here’s a quick cuticle care routine:
- Apply cuticle oil daily
- Gently push back cuticles (never cut!)
- Moisturize hands and nails regularly
“The state of your cuticles can make or break your gel manicure. Treat them well, and they’ll return the favor!” Sarah Johnson, Professional Nail Technician
Application Mastery: Tricks of the Trade
Now that your nails are prepped, it’s time for the main event: application!
Thin Layers Win the Race: The Key to Chip Resistant Nails
- Every time you apply polished gel on your nail, Less is more. An application of thin even layers is key to a manicure that will last. Let’s see why:
- Better curing: UV light can penetrate thin layers more effectively
- Reduced bubbling: Thick layers are prone to air pockets
- Flexibility: Thin layers move with your natural nail, reducing chips
Application steps:
- Apply base coat
- Cure under UV/LED lamp
- Apply first color coat (thin!)
- Cure
- Apply second color coat
- Cure
- Apply top coat
- Final cure
- Solving the mysteries: Reaching a seamless finish without getting burntCuring is akin to creating magic but it can also be uncomfortable. Here is how you can cure professionally:Follow manufacturer’s instructions for curing times
- Use the correct wattage lamp for your gel polish
- If you experience a burning sensation, remove hands immediately and try a lower wattage or shorter curing time
Are you aware that LED lamps cure gel polish more rapidly than usual UV lamps do, often taking 30 seconds instead of 2 minutes?
Daily TLC: Keeping Your Gel Nails Fabulous
Congratulations! You’ve got a fresh set of gel nails.
We should ensure that they look like they have just come from a salon.
It’s time to water your face. This will prevent the breakdown and peeling associated with dry manicure.
Keep your hands and nails hydrated with:
- Cuticle oil (apply daily)
- Hand cream (use after washing hands)
- Nail strengthening treatments (look for products with keratin or biotin)
Glove Up: Protecting Your Mani During Chores
- Treat gels with care. Protect them from harsh chemicals and excessive water exposure by keeping gloves during the following activities: Dishwashing
- Cleaning
- Gardening
- Swimming (chlorine can weaken the gel)
That Acetone is called the numerous names such as dimethyl formaldehyde, dimethyl ketone, 2 propanone, beta ketopropane, DMK, Propanone, Dimethylformaldehyde or Dimethylketal. The drawback, however, is that it causes more damage to the gels.
| Use Acetone | Avoid Acetone |
| Removing gel polish | Cleaning under nails |
| Prepping nails for new application | Fixing small chips |
| Cleaning nail tools | Daily nail maintenance |
Troubleshooting Common Gel Nail Woes
Even with perfect application and care, you might encounter some issues. Let’s tackle them head on!
Lifting Edges: Nipping Peeling in the Bud
Lifting edges can ruin an otherwise perfect manicure. Here’s how to prevent and fix them:
Prevention:
- Avoid getting nails wet for 24 hours after application
- Don’t pick at your nails
- Keep nails and cuticles moisturized
Quick fix:
- Gently file the lifted edge
- Clean under the nail with alcohol
- Apply a small amount of gel top coat
- Cure under the lamp
Color Fade Fade Out: Preserving That Fresh from the Salon Look
To keep your gel nails looking vibrant:
- Apply sunscreen to hands when outdoors
- Use a UV protective top coat
- Avoid prolonged exposure to chlorine or saltwater
Brittleness Be Gone: Strengthening Strategies for Natural Nails
Long term gel use can sometimes lead to weakened natural nails. Combat this with:
- Regular breaks between gel applications
- Nail strengthening treatments
- A diet rich in biotin and protein
The Art of the Fill: Extending Your Gel Nail Lifespan
As your nails grow, you’ll notice a gap between the cuticle and the gel. Enter: the fill.
DIY vs. Salon Fills: Weighing Your Options
| DIY Fills | Salon Fills |
| Cost effective | Professional results |
| Requires practice | Saves time |
| Can be done anytime | Access to pro products |
| Risk of damaging natural nails | Expertise in nail health |
When should the following appointment be scheduled for ideal results?
The majority of gel manicures require filling in every 2-3 weeks.
Signs it’s time for a fill:
- Visible nail growth at the base
- Lifting or chipping at the edges
- Loss of shine or smoothness
Safe Removal: Where there is Good, an End Should Come
For you to return your nails back from the gels is one, just do it safely so as not to harm your natural nails.
The Foil Method: Gentle Yet Effective Gel Removal
- File the top layer of gel to break the seal
- Soak cotton pads in acetone
- Place cotton on nails and wrap with foil
- Wait 10-15 minutes
- Gently scrape off loosened gel
- Repeat if necessary
Post Removal Rehab: Nurturing Your Natural Nails Back to Health
After removal, your nails might need some TLC. Try this rehab routine:
- Apply a nourishing oil (like jojoba or vitamin E)
- Use a nail strengthening treatment
- Give your nails a break from polish for a week
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in biotin and protein
Busted! Myths about gel nails
There are several popular lies about gel manicure.
Unraveling UV Exposure Myths
There is a popular misconception that curing gel nails may lead to cancer.
In fact, the level of exposure to ultraviolet radiation during the process is very limited, although it is harmful when skin is exposed to sunshine (Patterson Silver Wolf & Milroy, 2018).
Nevertheless, arthritis patients or those who fear for other reasons may put a broad spectrum sunscreen on their hands before undergoing procedure at the specialist’s office or they can wear special UV protection gloves (Kemp, 2017).
“Breathability”: Do Your Nails Really Require Air?
It is not true that nails must be allowed to ‘breathe’ in between each application of gel polish.
Our finger and toenails are made up of keratin; they are proteins, not living cells like they have pores to absorb anything.
They do not require oxygen for breathing but giving them some time off may prevent dehydration while also ensuring that your natural nail grows back properly after removal.
Sustainability in Beauty: Eco Friendly Alternatives for Gel nails
As we become more environmentally conscious, the beauty industry is adapting. Here are some eco friendly gel nail options:
Plant Based Formulas: The Green Revolution in Nail Care
Look for gel polishes made with:
- Organic ingredients
- Vegan formulas
- Biodegradable packaging
Reusable Alternatives: Cutting Down on Single Use Products
- Invest in reusable nail files and buffers
- Opt for washable cotton pads for removal
- Choose refillable gel polish bottles
Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your Gel Nail Game
Ready to take your gel nails to the next level? Let’s explore some advanced techniques.
Nail Art Techniques That Last: Working with Gel for Intricate Designs
- Stamping: Use special gel stamping polishes for crisp designs
- Foils: Apply foil over tacky gel for metallic effects
- Encapsulation: Embed glitter or dried flowers between gel layers
Mixing It Up: Combining Gel with Other Nail Enhancements
- Gel over acrylic: For added strength and shine
- Dip powder with gel top coat: Combines durability with gel’s glossy finish
- Gel extensions: For length without traditional tips
Innovations that are on the horizon in terms of gel nails
In regards to gels nails, there is a continuous revolution. Is this what you have to know about it:
Intelligent gels: Formulas that are Temperature sensitive and aluminate Mood
Imagine nails that change color with your body temperature or mood.
These innovative gels are already in development, using thermochromic and photochromic technologies.
Health Monitoring Nails: When Beauty Meets Tech
Researchers are working on gel nail formulas that can monitor:
- Hydration levels
- UV exposure
Conclusion
A combination of proper technique, regular care, and a bit of patience create beautiful and healthy nails.
There is always something new to learn for a gel nail newbie or an experienced nail artist in this constantly changing world of nail artistry.
Go ahead and rock those beautiful gel nails confidently. Your manicure will draw attention and last a long time if you follow these professional tricks. Just enjoy it!