Whether you’re new to gel nails or a pro, there are some basic tips you should follow to ensure they look great and last as long as possible. Keep the following in mind: Pre-prime and prime, file your nails regularly, avoid peeling, and keep a healthy length.
Pre-prime and prime
If you’re looking to have a great manicure, you’ll want to know the difference between pre-prime and prime gel nails. They are essential to creating a long-lasting manicure. There are two types of primers – acid-based and non-acid. The latter is better for clients with dry, brittle nails.
A primer is a coating that helps the nail enhancement stick to your natural nail. This is usually done through chemical bonds that link molecules within the product.
Acid-based primers dissolve the oils on the nail plate, allowing the enhancement to adhere. But they also create microscopic holes in the nail. This can leave your nail thinning. For this reason, it’s important to avoid using acid-based primers on a regular basis.
Non-acid primers, on the other hand, create a chemical bond, just as acid-based primers do, but without harmful effects. This is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin or those who suffer from hormonal problems.
Both primers and base coats act as an adhesive, and they are designed to provide maximum adhesion. But you can get a little confused about the differences between these two products.
For example, if you use an acid-based primer, you might notice that your nail will be yellow. However, this isn’t a problem if you wait for the acid to evaporate. If you’re preparing for a gel manicure, you should apply the primer first, then the base coat.
Avoid filing
A gel manicure may sound like a luxury, but the reality is you can get two to three weeks of wear from a single coat. While a gel application is a bit of a pain in the azz, there are some tricks to keeping your nails looking good and feeling healthy. One such trick involves buffing the heck out of your digits.
A good buffing routine can help you outlast your nail varnish nemesis and make your digits look their best. A glass or crystal file can smooth the skin and is a savior when it comes to filing your digits. The aforementioned buffing process can also be used to remove smudges and nail polish flakes.
You can then apply a top coat of your choosing to keep your digits looking smooth and shiny. A good buffing routine will entice you to do your nails regularly and ensure you get the most out of your gel application.
You will also want to consider your options before slapping on a gel top coat. There are many alternatives to nail polish in the marketplace today and it can be hard to determine which option is right for you.
The best way to find out is to talk to your nail technician. A good technician will take the time to educate you on what works for you. The more you know about what you can do to maintain your gel nails the better off you will be.
Avoid peeling
One of the most annoying aspects of gel nails is peeling. However, there are things you can do to avoid this common complaint.
The key to avoiding peeling is to keep your hands dry. Using a hand cream can help protect your gel paint from moisture. You should also apply a top coat to your nails to seal in the remaining polish.
If you don’t want to spend the money on a top coat, you can use cuticle oil to keep your nails hydrated. This will prolong the life of your gel manicure.
The best way to avoid peeling with gel nails is to follow the manufacturers’ instructions to the letter. Depending on the brand of polish, you may need to follow a different set of guidelines. It’s a good idea to check with a nail expert or a dermatologist for advice.
Another tip is to pick up a cuticle pusher. This will make the job easier, and you can save yourself the hassle of scrubbing your nails with a nail file. You can also buy a metal cuticle pusher. It’s also a good idea to file your nails. The end result will be a smoother, more polished look.
Lastly, you should wear gloves when you’re doing anything that could damage your nails. It’s not a bad idea to put a gel cap on your polish to avoid peeling.
Avoid exposure to UV light
There are certain risks associated with exposing your nails to UV light. There are several ways to minimize the risk of exposure to the sun, including avoiding direct sunlight.
One of the easiest ways to limit your exposure is to wear sunscreen. This is especially important if you are planning on spending time in the sun, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM. You can also wear fingertip gloves to reduce your exposure.
There is some research suggesting that UV light may increase your risk of skin cancer. However, experts cannot say for sure whether UV lamps are the cause of this increase.
If you are getting a gel manicure, make sure you are covered with broad-spectrum sunscreen. It should have at least 30 SPF. Ideally, you should use a lotion that contains sunscreen to protect your nails as well.
The American Academy of Dermatology states that UV rays are a risk factor for skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen 20 minutes before you go out in the sun.
Those with sensitive skin should be extra careful. Some medications, such as oral contraceptives and antibiotics, can increase your sensitivity to the sun.
If you must get a gel manicure, it is best to choose a salon that does not use a UV lamp. The UV lamp can cause negative effects on your nails and DNA.
Remove polish
Gel nail polish isn’t always easy to remove. Those with sensitive skin can opt for a professional removal, but there are a few tips you can learn to help get rid of the gel.
Removing gel paint at home requires a little work and patience. You should try to avoid peeling off the polish or picking at it. Onycholysis, a nail condition, can happen if you do.
While you’re waiting for the gel to dissolve, you can hydrate your nails. Cuticle oil helps replenish the natural oils in your fingernails. You may also want to apply petroleum jelly to protect your skin from the acetone.
You can use a wooden stick to remove the polish. You should be careful not to chip your nail since this will cause more damage than acetone.
The next step is to soak your nails in a hydrating oil. The oil will soften the polish and allow you to remove it. You can also try a warm water soak, which can help loosen the gel.
You can also get a cuticle pusher. A wooden or rubber-ended one will help you gently scrape off the polish. But it would help if you were careful not to dig too deep into your nail bed, as this can damage the nail.
The best method for removing gel is a soaking-off technique. You can soak your fingers in a bowl of acetone for about 15 minutes. Be sure to cover them with a cotton ball or pads.
