What is a Gel Manicure? A gel manicure has taken the nail world by storm, quickly ascending to the top, surpassing more traditional nail techniques like acrylic. The beauty of this method lies in its extreme durability and the high-shine gloss that lasts for weeks without the need for constant touch-ups. Unlike other manicures, gel nails don’t have the dry-down time you might expect. The results are almost enduring and don’t budge easily. However, the process of using a UV curing method for these manicures has sparked some safety concerns, leading to ongoing controversy about whether the UV exposure poses a risk. Despite this, many experts and dermatologists agree on the benefits and overall cost efficiency of the gel manicure. However, safety considerations are still important to keep in mind when choosing this salon service.
A gel manicure is a technique used to enhance the appearance and length of your nails. This method involves applying gel polish, which sparkles for weeks without smudging, even with long or extra-long nail sets. The process of getting a gel manicure is similar to a regular manicure, but the key difference lies in the material used and how the polish is cured. A technician will first cut your nails and soak your hands in warm, soapy water, before trimming your soft cuticles and performing a hand cleansing. After the prep, a base coat is applied to your nails to prepare them for the gel polish.
Once the polish is on, the technician uses a UV or LED light to cure each layer for about 30 seconds to five minutes, helping the gel harden. This curing process ensures a long-lasting finish without the need for drying time, so you’re ready to go once the final topcoat is applied and cured. The gel finish is durable, high-shine, and protects your nails from chips and wear and tear for up to three weeks. Since the gel is applied in individually cured layers, the coating is strong and secure, ensuring it lasts longer compared to a traditional manicure. With its various colors and finishes, a gel manicure has become a popular choice for those who want a beautiful, glossy look that withstands time.
What Are The Different Types Of Gel Manicures?
There are three main types of gel manicures: soft gel, hard gel, and builder gel. Soft gel manicures are flexible and easy to remove, offering a natural look with the convenience of quick color changes. Hard gel manicures create stronger, longer nails, providing extra durability and strength, but they require filing for removal. Builder gel manicures are used for nail extensions, offering a thick, strong coating that can add length and strength to brittle nails. Each type offers unique benefits depending on the desired outcome for your nails.
Soft Gel Manicures
Soft gel manicures are perfect for those who prefer ease and flexibility. These gels are applied similarly to traditional nail polish but are cured and hardened under a UV or LED light. The best part is that they can be removed with a soak in acetone, making them convenient for anyone who likes to change their nail color frequently. Soft gels provide a natural look and feel, giving you a polished yet subtle finish, perfect for those who like to keep it simple or want something that blends effortlessly with their vibe.
Hard Gel Manicures
Hard gel manicures offer more strength and durability. They’re thicker than soft gels, which allows technicians to sculpt and extend your nails beyond your natural length. Hard gels are cured under UV or LED light, just like soft gels, but they require filing for removal, which takes a bit more time. The durability of hard gel manicures makes them a stellar choice for people who want longer, lasting nails that can stand up to wear and tear.
Builder Gel Manicures
Builder gel manicures are a type of hard gel that provides strong, long-lasting nail extensions, similar to acrylic nails. These gels are thick and viscous, designed to help create more length and strength for your nails. Cured under UV or LED light, builder gels are ideal for those looking to solve issues with weak or brittle nails. They can give you the ultimate in nail extensions, creating a solid foundation and providing a polished, strong finish.
The Process of Getting a Gel Manicure
Having a gel manicure is not merely applying nail polish, but it is a process that makes your hands appear polished, prim, and lasting. As a girl who has received and applied many gel manicures, I can assure you: the difference is in the procedure. It is precise, UV/LED cured, and can be highly durable, which the normal polish cannot match. I would love to take you through every step of this process, so you may become aware of what you should expect once you are in that salon chair.
Nail Preparation
Every great manicure begins with proper prep. This step is the foundation. First, the nails are cleaned thoroughly to remove any oils or leftover polish. I always gently push back the cuticles and trim any excess to keep things neat. Then comes shaping the nails, whether you love square tips, almond, or rounded edges, this is when we bring that vision to life. Lightly buffing the surface is next. This helps the gel adhere better and last longer. You might think of it as “priming the canvas.” Without good prep, even the best gel polish won’t stay put.
Base Coat Application
When the nails are prepared then the thin layer of the base coat is applied. This is not as important as most people think; it serves as a kind of shield between your own nail and colored gel. It is ordinarily a clear, sticky gel that aids the color to adhere to the nail without damaging the surface below it. Once the base has been applied, it is placed under a UV or LED lamp to be cured in approximately 30 or 60 seconds. It will be hot, but not painful to you. This curing process locks in the base and gets the nail ready for color.
Colour Coats
Here’s where the magic happens, applying the actual color. Two coats would be applied, completely covering and evenly coating them. Curing of each coat of the lamp, similar to the base, is done. This may appear to be an exhaustive step, but this is to create profundity and uniqueness. Gel colors are simply exquisite in their range of colors that include traditional reds and nudes to the latest pastel and glitter colors. I will advise people to get a shade that captures your vibe since you are going to be wearing it over time! The gel consistency is thicker in comparison to normal polish, but goes on quite well with no smudging after application dries up.
Top Coat
The finishing coat is a seal of the deal. It gives a luscious, rich, high-shine finish (or matte, depending on your preference) and seals the color that lies beneath. It is also resistant to chips and scratches, thus gel manicures are so durable. Similarly to the first step, the top coat is drying out underneath the light. The most loved part of the step, in my opinion, is that the whole appearance changes, the soft and sticky layers having a hard, smooth look. It looks good to view and feels better to put on.
Wipe and Nourish
Now, here’s a part many don’t expect. When the last cure is done, nails may still be sticky. Therefore, the wipe soaked in alcohol containing lint-free is applied to eliminate the tacky coating formed on the top. Go ahead, this will not make it lose its lustre. It exposes the sleek, hard surface beneath it. Lastly, a moisturizing cuticle oil is rubbed in the area of the nails to restore moisture to the skin. This is always a mini spa experience, and your hands come out of the salon healthy, looking, hydrated, and beautiful.
What Are The Benefits of Gel Manicures?
Long-Lasting Durability and Strength: Gel manicures provide long-lasting durability, lasting up to three weeks without chipping or peeling, making them perfect for busy lifestyles. They also offer extra strength and protection for natural nails, preventing breakage and splitting.
High-Gloss Finish and Quick Drying Time: One of the main benefits of gel manicures is the high-gloss finish that lasts for the life of the manicure. Unlike traditional nail polish, gel dries instantly under UV or LED light, eliminating smudges and dents.
Versatility and Customization: Gel polish comes in a broad array of colors and finishes, allowing for endless customization and creativity. Whether you want a sophisticated or bold look, gel manicures offer you the versatility to express yourself.
Minimal Maintenance and Easy Removal: Gel manicures require minimal maintenance and, with proper care, don’t need frequent touch-ups. When it’s time to change, they can be easily removed with acetone, making the transition to a new style quick and hassle-free.
Flexibility and Daily Wear Resistance: Whether you prefer soft gel nails for their flexibility or hard gel nails for their ability to withstand wear and tear, gel manicures are built to handle daily tasks without losing their strength, ensuring they stay intact and looking polished
How to Safely Remove a Gel Manicure
Proper Preparation and Tools Needed
Before removing your gel polish, it’s essential to focus on the cuticles and nail beds, which are the most crucial parts of your nails. If you’re doing it at home, acetone is required. Soak your nails in a glass bowl filled with a moderate amount of acetone for around three minutes. Use a wooden stick cuticle pusher to gently scrape the jelly-like substance from your nails.
Removal Process
Once you’ve cracked the top coat’s seal with a grit file, wrap cotton balls soaked in pure acetone around your nails, then wrap them with tin foil for 10-15 minutes. After the soaking time, use a wooden stick to gently lift the remaining gel polish. If it’s not easily removed with minimal pressure and pushing, repeat the acetone soak for another 10-15 minutes.
Final Touches
After successfully removing the gel polish, softly buff your nails and moisturize your hands with cuticle oil or nail lotion. Professional removal at a salon usually costs around $10-$15, but following these steps at home can help you avoid damaging your nails. Be sure never to peel or pick the polish off, as this can rip the protective layer of your nails
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the flex and ease of soft gels, the strength and durability of hard gels, or the elevated finish of gel polish, there’s a gel manicure suited to your style and needs. By considering your nail health, maintenance preferences, and daily activities, you can find the perfect kind of gel manicure to keep your nails immaculate, long-lasting, vibrant, and pristine. At Starfish Nail Bar, we offer expert artistry and precision, ensuring every client leaves satisfied.
Whether you’re visiting for a luxurious treatment or a complete session at our nail salon in Kyle, you’re in expert hands. Book your next appointment for a transformative manicure and indulge in our premium pedicure services. Visit starfishnailbar.com for more details and to schedule your appointment. Our loyal clientele loves the sparkle and durability of our gel treatments.
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