Nail Gels are a type of nail polish that is cured with a UV nail lamp to create a long-wearing manicure. Unlike traditional nail polishes, they usually require a base coat, color layer and topcoat and can last up to two weeks before a new application is needed. While they have a lot of benefits and make for an easy way to change your nail colour, they can be damaging if not removed properly. Luckily, you can get your gels safely removed at a nail salon or even yourself at home using some acetone, tin foil, cotton balls and nail file.
There are several types of gel nails available on the market today ranging from soft gels to hard gels. The best one to use depends on your needs and what look you’re going for. Soft gels are typically used to strengthen nails and can be applied over natural or artificial nails. They’re also less drying than acrylic nails and have a very light scent during the application process.
Another benefit of soft gels is that they’re more flexible and can bend with the nail rather than tearing off or cracking like acrylics. This makes them a great choice for people with brittle nails. However, they can be a bit harder to remove than other types of nail products.
Hard gels, on the other hand, are a popular option for women who want to add length to their nails or have a more dramatic nail shape (think Cardi B’s pointy stilettos). They’re available in various lengths and can be trimmed, filed and shaped after they’ve dried. The downside of hard gels is that they’re incredibly difficult to soak off and can be more prone to chipping than other nail enhancement products.
The other downside of gels is that they expose your nails and cuticles to a ton of harmful UV rays during the cure process. This can cause heat spikes and can be very irritating if you’re not careful. Despite these risks, many women swear by gels because they offer an incredible amount of flexibility and a beautiful, long-lasting finish.
It’s important to remember that your nails and cuticles are made of living tissue, so it’s essential to treat them with the same care you would if they weren’t covered in gels. Whether you’re getting your nails done at a salon or DIYing it, don’t cut or push the cuticles and always moisturize your hands and fingers. Also, it’s important to give your nails a break from gels every once in a while.
So the next time you’re tempted to go with the gels, just think about how much more work your nails will have to do in order to come off and what effect that will have on them in the long run. If you do choose to get them done, it’s best to see a licensed technician who knows how to take proper care of your nails and cuticles. Gels à ongles