how to properly prep nails for gel

GEL NAILS VS DIPPED NAILS VS ACRYLIC

There are several types of nail extensions available, each offering its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Whether you’re considering dip powder nails, gel nails, or acrylics, it’s important to know what to look for when deciding which option is best for you. Before diving into the details, let’s explore the pros and cons of dip nails, gel nails, and acrylics to help you make an informed choice.

WHAT ARE GEL NAILS?

Gel nails are created using a gel formula that is cured under UV or LED light. They’re much more flexible than traditional acrylics, making them less prone to breakage.

While applying gel nails can be a bit challenging due to the sticky residue left behind, which must be wiped off with alcohol, they are highly durable once set and typically last 2-3 weeks.

Unlike hard gel extensions, which are ideal for salon use, gel polish is easier to apply and suitable for both at-home and professional applications.

Disadvantages of Gel Nails

  • Time-consuming application: The process can take a while, as each nail needs to be shaped individually and cured under UV or LED light.
  • UV/LED light exposure: Some individuals may be sensitive to UV or LED light used during the curing process, which can cause skin irritation. To reduce this risk, it’s recommended to apply sunscreen to your hands before exposure.
  • Harsh chemicals: Some gel brands may contain harsh chemicals like BHA, so it’s best to avoid those when possible.

WHAT ARE DIPPED NAILS?

Dip powder nails, or dipped nails, are made using finely milled acrylic powder and are bonded with a special adhesive called cyanoacrylate.

The powder is applied to the nail and sealed with a top coat. Dip powder nails are known for being both flexible and durable, making them longer-lasting than other types of artificial nails. When applied properly, they are also resistant to chipping and breaking.

The dipping method is particularly suited for home use. Unlike hard gels and acrylics, which require skill and experience to sculpt the nails, dip nails don’t involve sculpting, making them easier to apply.

In addition, dip powders are flexible, durable, odorless, non-toxic, and don’t require curing lights.

Disadvantages of Dip Nails

  • Hygiene concerns: While dip powders are great for home application, if you’re getting them done at a salon, ensure your fingers aren’t being dipped into shared powder pots, as this can lead to infections.
  • Messy application: The process of applying dip powder nails can get a bit messy.

WHAT ARE ACRYLIC NAILS?

Traditional acrylic nails are created by combining a liquid monomer with a powder polymer, typically applied with a brush and then shaped to the desired look.

Acrylic nails are the most popular type of artificial nails due to their durability, longevity, and relatively simple application process. However, if not applied correctly, they can cause significant damage to your natural nails.

Disadvantages of Acrylic Nails

  • Toxic smell: Liquid monomers often contain harsh chemicals like MMA, which can be harmful to your health, potentially causing allergies or asthma.
  • Harsh chemicals: Some types of acrylics contain dangerous substances such as formaldehyde and toluene. While it hasn’t been definitively proven, toluene has been linked to potential health issues.
  • Lack of flexibility: Unlike gel or dip powder nails, traditional acrylics are quite rigid. This means that if they hit something hard, they are more likely to break due to their stiffness.
  • Bacterial or fungal infections: Improper application or trauma to the nails can lead to gaps between the acrylic and the natural nail, creating a breeding ground for bacteria or fungi.
  • Acrylic nail removal: Removing acrylic nails is a lengthy process, requiring soaking the nails in 100% acetone for 30-40 minutes. It’s recommended to have a professional handle the removal, as attempting it on your own can risk damaging your nails.

DIPPED NAILS VS GEL NAILS – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE

Dipped nails and gel nails are both popular options for fake nails, but how do they differ? Let’s break it down.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Both dip powder and gel nails are great for home use. However, applying hard gel (gel extensions) can be much trickier for a DIY project.

Gel nails usually take longer to apply than dip nails because gel polish or hard gel needs to be cured under an LED or UV light.

For a gel manicure, the process includes prepping the nails, applying a base coat, gel polish color, a top coat, and curing under a lamp.

A dip powder manicure involves prepping the nails, applying a base coat, dipping them in powder, adding a top coat, and using an activator.

Traditional acrylics include prepping the nail, applying acrylic powder and liquid with a brush, and finishing with nail polish and a top coat.

UV/LED LIGHT EXPOSURE

Dip powder nails don’t need UV or LED light to set, unlike gel nails, which require curing under these lights.

LASTING POWER

Gel polish: If done right, gel polish can last 2-3 weeks.

Hard gel extensions: They can last more than 3 weeks but usually need a fill-in after 3-4 weeks.

Dip powder nails: When applied properly, they can last over 3 weeks without chipping.

Acrylic nails: Acrylics are very strong and can also last over 3 weeks without cracking or chipping.

NAIL DAMAGE

If not applied or removed properly, all three types—gel, dip powder, and acrylics—can harm your natural nails. This can range from mild irritation to more serious issues like infections or allergies, depending on the person and the process used.

COST AND TIME

Gel polish: Costs $35-$50 and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. In the U.S., the average price is $40.

Hard gel extensions: Cost around $80 and take 1-1.5 hours. Prices may rise if you add decorations like rhinestones.

Dip nails: Typically cost $40-$50 and take about 45 minutes.

Acrylic extensions: Cost between $75-$100 and take 1-1.5 hours in a salon.

REMOVAL PROCESS

For gel nails and dip powder nails, the removal process is similar: first, file off the top coat, then soak the nails in acetone for 15-20 minutes. For acrylic nails, removal takes longer. You need to soak them in acetone for 30-40 minutes and then file them off.

CONCLUSION

So, what’s the verdict? It really comes down to your preferences. If you’re looking for something quick and easy to do at home, both a gel polish manicure and a dip powder manicure are great options. If you prefer to visit the salon for a full set of extensions, then gel or acrylic nail extensions might be more your style.

Acrylic allergy: If you’re allergic to acrylics, none of these options will work for you since they all contain acrylic. In that case, you could try a regular polish manicure or a shellac manicure. While these won’t last as long, they are gentler on your nails in the long run. Whatever you decide, remember to care for your nails and give them a break every now and then!

HOW TO APPLY GEL POLISH PERFECTLY: A SIMPLE DIY GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS

Ever dream of achieving salon-quality nails at home? Gel polish can be your secret weapon! It offers long-lasting shine, vibrant colors, and chip-resistant wear – all without the hefty price tag of a professional manicure. But achieving that perfect gel polish application can seem daunting at first. Fear not, aspiring nail artist! This guide will break down the process into simple steps, making you a gel polish pro in no time. Get ready to ditch the chipped nails and embrace stunning, long-lasting manicures you can create yourself!

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO APPLY GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

CUTICLE OIL

Gel curing and especially gel polish removal can dry out your nails, cuticles, and surrounding skin. To maintain moisture in your skin and nail plate, it’s beneficial to invest in cuticle oil.

UV/LED LAMP

A UV/LED curing lamp is essential for gel nails, as it hardens the gel polish layers, making the nails more durable and chip-resistant. “Curing” refers to drying gel nails under a UV/LED lamp, where the light activates a chemical reaction that quickly dries the nails, preventing chipping or smudging immediately after application. This process is why gel manicures last longer than most other types of manicures.

CUTICLE PUSHER

A cuticle pusher is used to expose more of your nail bed, helping your manicure last longer by delaying the visible growth of your nails under the polish.

NAIL BUFF

A nail buffer is an essential part of your nail kit. It gently prepares your nail’s surface by smoothing and evening out imperfections, ensuring an easy and flawless application of gel polish.

NAIL FILE

A nail file shapes your nails and removes gel polish by smoothing the edges and grinding down the surface. This helps maintain the desired nail shape and prepares the nails for new polish.

To remove gel nails, use a medium grit file. For soak-off gel polish, use a 180 grit nail file to remove the hardened top coat before removing the polish.

Tip: you want to avoid damaging the natural nail underneath by using too coarse a nail file.

ACETONE

Acetone is used to clean your nails before applying gel polish and to remove the polish afterward. Any acetone with a content of 60 percent or more will work effectively.

Before application, acetone removes oils and residues to create a clean surface for the gel polish. During removal, it breaks down the gel polish for easy removal. Use cotton balls or lint-free nail wipes to apply the acetone, ensuring no fuzz is left on your nails.

UV GEL MANICURE GLOVES

Wearing UV gel manicure gloves protects your skin from the UV light used to cure gel polish. This is important because long-term exposure to UV light can damage your skin. The gloves shield your skin from unnecessary UV ray exposure.

NAIL CLIPPERS

Nail clippers are used to shape your nails before a gel manicure. Avoid clipping your nails after applying gel polish, as it can break the seal at the tip and cause the polish to peel off.

GEL TOP COAT

A gel top coat is crucial when applying gel polish as it seals in the color, delivering a glossy finish that safeguards nails from chipping and peeling.

GEL BASE COAT

A gel base coat is essential as it ensures the gel polish adheres securely to the natural nail, creating a smooth surface that enhances the durability of gel nails. This is why gel manicures have a longer lifespan compared to regular nail polish.

GEL POLISH

Now comes the enjoyable part—choose your favorite gel colors or try something new!

APPLY GEL NAIL POLISH: STEP BY STEP

CUT AND FILE NAILS

To achieve a stunning gel manicure, begin by shaping your nails. Trim them to your desired size and shape using a nail clipper, then use a nail file to smooth out the edges for flawless application.

 PUSH YOUR CUTICLES DOWN

Utilize a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles, creating a cleaner and more visible nail surface. This tool also helps remove dead skin from the nail plate and promotes even cuticle maintenance. Avoid trimming your cuticles, as this can increase the risk of nail infections by exposing the nail bed.

BUFF YOUR NAILS

Gently buff your nails to smooth the surface and enhance their natural shine, preparing them to bond effectively with gel polish. Avoid excessive buffing, which can weaken and thin your nails.

CLEAN NAILS

Thoroughly cleanse your nails with rubbing alcohol to ensure the polish adheres directly to your natural nail. Any residues like cuticle oil or dust particles can cause premature lifting of the polish.

APPLY GEL BASE COAT

Start with a strong foundation! Apply a thin layer of gel base coat to each nail, ensuring it reaches all the way to the tips (capping the free edge) for extra chip resistance. Once all your nails are coated, cure them under a UV lamp or LED light according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 45 seconds to 1 minute). 

Don’t worry about the tacky feeling – this is normal for uncured gel polish. Just resist the urge to touch your nails, as that can mess up the application.

APPLY GEL POLISH

Now, for the fun part – color! Use thin coats to paint each nail, reaching close to the cuticle but avoiding your skin (a clean-up brush can be handy for minor mistakes). Two thin coats are ideal for most colors, but feel free to add more for extra vibrancy. Remember, thin is better than thick for a smooth, even finish. After each coat, cure your nails under the UV/LED lamp according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 45-60 seconds). That sticky feeling is normal, so resist touching your nails until you’re done!

APPLY GEL TOP COAT

Shine on! Finish your masterpiece with a thin layer of gel top coat, ensuring you cover the entire nail and cap the free edge for ultimate protection. Cure your nails under the UV/LED lamp for at least a minute (as per instructions) to completely dry and seal the polish. Some gels might leave a slightly tacky residue – no worries, a gentle wipe with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol will take care of that, revealing your perfectly polished nails!

HOW TO APPLY GEL POLISH ON ACRYLICS

When combining gel polish with acrylic nails, your nail art can remain intact for up to 6 weeks with minimal touch-ups. Before proceeding, familiarize yourself with the differences between gel and acrylic nails.

Here are the recommended steps to follow:

Begin by removing old polish using a non-acetone nail polish remover. This step is crucial to ensure thorough removal of any residual polish from the nail.

Clean and dry the nail completely to eliminate any residue that could affect the application. It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals that might react with the acrylic. Opt for gentle options like baby wipes or thorough hand washing.

Apply an acrylic-friendly base coat, followed by colored polish and a top coat. Treat acrylic nails similarly to natural nails when applying gel polish, using the steps outlined above. Ensure the base coat is compatible with acrylic to prevent staining.

HOW TO APPLY NAIL TIPS WITH GEL OVERLAY

You can apply gel polish to store-bought nail tips that are glued over your natural nails. The process resembles regular gel polish application but with a few key differences.

Start by pushing back your cuticles, gently buffing the nail surface, and ensuring they are clean. Apply a thin coat of nail glue to each nail and carefully place the nail tips, rocking them to eliminate any trapped air bubbles.

Adjust the size and shape of the nail tips as necessary. Afterward, buff and clean the nail surface before proceeding to apply gel polish. Begin with a base coat followed by at least two layers of color, curing each coat as you apply it.

Before applying the top coat, remove any tacky residue, lightly buff the top color layer, and clean it. Finally, apply and cure the top coat to seal and ensure long-lasting results.

HOW TO APPLY NAIL DECALS OVER GEL POLISH

Ready to level up? Explore Nail Art! Gel polish is perfect for nail art because it allows your designs to shine (literally!) for longer. Here’s a beginner-friendly option using nail decals:

Pick your base: Apply your desired gel polish color as the foundation for your artwork.

Decal magic: Choose your decal design and carefully cut out the section you want to use.

Water decals? Easy! Simply dip a water decal in water to separate it from the backing, then place it on your nail.

Smooth operator: Gently use a wooden stick or your finger to flatten the decal onto your nail. You can even add details or pops of color with extra polish.

Seal the deal: Once your design is perfect, cure it under the lamp for at least 30 seconds. Finish with a layer of gel top coat, cure again, and voila! Show off your artistic masterpiece!

HOW TO MAINTENANCE GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

Prolong your Gel Mani Magic:

Hydration is key: Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your nails and surrounding skin nourished. This helps prevent chipping and peeling.

Give it time to set: Avoid direct contact with water for at least an hour after your manicure. This allows the gel polish to fully cure and harden.

Gloves are your friend: Protect your nails when doing chores! Wear gloves for washing dishes, cleaning, or anything that involves harsh chemicals.

Shine it on: Apply a top coat every few days to add an extra layer of protection and boost the shine and longevity of your gel polish.

HOW TO REMOVE GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

Removing gel nail polish is akin to removing acrylic nails, providing comfort and relief for your fingers. Ready for a Refresh? Here’s how to remove your gel polish safely:

Soften it Up: Soak cotton balls in 100% acetone and place them on each nail.

Seal the Deal: Wrap each fingertip snugly with aluminum foil to create a little pocket. This helps trap the acetone and speeds up the removal process.

Patience is Key: Relax and let the magic happen! Soak your nails for at least 10 minutes. The gel polish should be lifting or dissolving easily.

Buff and Moisturize: Once the polish is gone, gently buff your nails to remove any residue. Finish by pampering your nails and cuticles with a nourishing moisturizer or cuticle oil.

FAQ

1. Do I need to prep my nails before applying gel polish?

Absolutely! Gently push back your cuticles, buff your nails to remove shine, and clean them with alcohol wipes to remove any oils.

2. How thin should the gel polish layers be?

Thin coats are key! Multiple thin layers will create a smooth, opaque finish that’s less prone to chipping.

3. What if I accidentally get gel polish on my skin?

Don’t panic! Before curing, use a cotton swab dipped in acetone or alcohol to gently wipe away the mistake.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it! With a little practice and these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving salon-quality gel manicures from the comfort of your own home. Remember, start with prepping your nails properly, apply thin coats of gel polish, and cure them according to the instructions. Don’t forget to moisturize your nails and avoid harsh chemicals to extend the life of your manicure. Now get creative and have fun with different colors and even try some beginner-friendly nail art! With gel polish, your stunning nails are just a few steps away!