There’s been a lot of questions surrounding gel manicures? Are they safe? How long do they last? What’s the difference between gel polish and regular nail polish? Let’s break it down.

What’s the difference between gel polish and regular nail lacquer?

Gel polish and regular nail polish are both popular choices for adding color and style to nails, but they have some significant differences in terms of application, durability, and removal.

1. Application:

   • Regular Nail Polish: Traditional nail polish typically requires multiple coats to achieve full opacity and color intensity. It dries by evaporation, which means it can take several minutes or longer to fully set.
   • Gel Polish: Gel polish is applied in thin layers like regular polish but is then cured under a UV or LED lamp. This curing process hardens the polish almost instantly, creating a durable finish.

2. Durability:

   • Regular Nail Polish: While regular polish offers a wide range of colors and finishes, it tends to chip and wear off more quickly, especially with daily activities like typing or doing household chores.
   • Gel Polish: Gel polish is renowned for its durability. It can last up to two weeks or more without chipping or peeling, making it a popular choice for those who want long-lasting color.

3. Removal:

   • Regular Nail Polish: Regular polish can be easily removed with acetone-based nail polish remover. It typically requires just a few swipes with a cotton ball or pad to take off.
   • Gel Polish: Removing gel polish requires a bit more effort. You need to soak the nails in acetone or use gel polish remover wraps to dissolve the hardened gel. This process can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the gel layers.

4. Cost and Maintenance:

   • Regular Nail Polish: Traditional nail polish is generally less expensive than gel polish, and it's easy to apply at home without special equipment.
   • Gel Polish: Gel polish tends to be more expensive initially, and you may need to invest in a UV or LED lamp for curing. However, many people find the long-lasting results worth the extra cost.

5. Nail Health:

   • Regular Nail Polish: Since regular nail polish doesn't require curing with UV or LED lights, it's generally considered to be gentler on nails.
   • Gel Polish: The curing process for gel polish can sometimes weaken nails over time, especially if not removed properly. However, using quality products and taking breaks between gel manicures can help minimize any potential damage.

In summary, while both gel polish and regular nail polish offer beautiful nail color options, they have distinct differences in terms of application, durability, removal process, cost, and effects on nail health. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, lifestyle, and desired nail appearance.

Can gel polish dry without a UV light?

No, gel polish cannot cure without a UV or LED light. The curing process is an essential step in hardening gel polish and creating its durable finish. Gel polish contains photoinitiators, which are activated by specific wavelengths of light emitted by UV or LED lamps. Without exposure to these lights, the gel polish will remain in a liquid state and will not dry or harden properly. UV or LED lamps provide the necessary energy to initiate the polymerization process, transforming the gel from a liquid to a solid state.

How long does a gel manicure last?

A gel manicure typically lasts longer than a traditional manicure with regular nail polish. On average, a gel manicure can last anywhere from 10 to 14 days without chipping or peeling, although some people may experience even longer wear. The longevity of a gel manicure can be influenced by factors such as the quality of the gel polish used, the skill of the nail technician applying it, the condition of the nails, and the individual's lifestyle.

Proper nail preparation, application techniques, and careful curing under a UV or LED lamp can all contribute to the durability of a gel manicure. Additionally, taking care to avoid activities that could put extra stress on the nails, such as excessive typing or exposure to harsh chemicals, can help prolong the life of the manicure.

It's important to note that while gel manicures are known for their long-lasting properties, they will eventually start to show signs of wear, such as growth at the nail bed or slight lifting at the edges. At this point, some individuals may choose to remove the gel polish and reapply it, while others may opt to simply let the manicure naturally wear off. Proper removal is crucial to maintaining the health and integrity of the nails.

What’s the average cost of a gel manicure?

According to Byrdie, in general, gel polish manicures typically cost anywhere from $30 to $50 in major cities like Los Angeles or New York City. Keep in mind you will also have to pay for the removal, which typically costs anywhere from $10-$15.

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A post shared by CND (@cndworld) on Mar 4, 2020 at 6:00am PST

Pictured: CND Shellac "Kiss From A Rose" (from the CND English Garden Collection)

How do I make my gel manicure last longer?

It’s important to completely cure your nails to ensure they are dry and firm. If they are under-cured, the polish can become sticky and even smudge. According to cosmetic chemist Randy Schueller, it’s theoretically possible to leave your nails under the light a little longer for more durability.

How safe are gel manicures?

To maximize the longevity of your gel manicure and ensure it lasts as long as possible, you can follow these tips:

1. Prepare Your Nails Properly: Before applying gel polish, ensure your nails are clean, dry, and free of any oils or residues. Use a gentle nail polish remover to thoroughly cleanse the nails and remove any traces of old polish.

2. Use Quality Products: Invest in high-quality gel polish and topcoat from reputable brands. Quality products tend to adhere better to the nails and provide longer-lasting results.

3. Apply Thin, Even Layers: When applying gel polish, avoid thick coats, as they can lead to uneven curing and premature chipping. Instead, apply thin, even layers of gel polish, allowing each layer to cure properly under the UV or LED lamp before applying the next.

4. Cap the Edges: Ensure you "cap" the free edge of each nail by brushing a thin layer of gel polish along the tip. This helps seal the edges and prevent premature chipping.

5. Avoid Water Exposure: While gel polish is durable, prolonged exposure to water can weaken its adhesion to the nails. Wear gloves when doing household chores such as washing dishes or cleaning to protect your manicure.

6. Be Gentle with Your Nails: Avoid using your nails as tools and be mindful of activities that could cause unnecessary stress or trauma to the nails, as this can lead to chipping or lifting of the gel polish.

7. Moisturize Regularly: Keep your nails and cuticles moisturized to maintain their health and flexibility. Dry, brittle nails are more prone to chipping and breaking.

8. Protect Your Nails from UV Exposure: Apply sunscreen or wear gloves when exposing your hands to direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV rays can potentially weaken gel polish and cause it to degrade prematurely.

9. Touch Up as Needed: If you notice any small chips or imperfections in your gel manicure, you can touch them up with a matching gel polish and topcoat to extend the life of your manicure.

10. Proper Removal: When it's time to remove your gel manicure, avoid peeling or picking at the polish, as this can damage the nails. Follow the proper removal process using acetone and foil wraps or gel polish remover wraps to gently dissolve the gel polish without causing harm to your nails.

By following these tips and practicing proper nail care, you can help ensure that your gel manicure lasts as long as possible while maintaining the health and integrity of your nails.

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A post shared by OPI (@opi) on Feb 28, 2020 at 6:35pm PST

Pictured: OPI GelColor "Bare My Soul" (from the OPI Sheers Collection, "Coral-ing Your Spirit Animal", "Mariachi Makes My Day", "Don't Tell A Sol", "Telenovela Me About It", & "Verde Nice To Meet You" from the OPI Mexico City Collection

How do I remove gel polish?

Removing gel polish at home requires patience and the right technique to ensure that your nails remain healthy and undamaged. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to safely remove gel polish at home:

1. Gather Your Supplies:

   • Acetone (100% pure acetone is preferable, but acetone-based nail polish remover will also work)
   • Cotton balls or pads
   • Aluminum foil
   • Cuticle pusher or orangewood stick
   • Nail file or buffer
   • Hand cream or cuticle oil

2. Prepare Your Nails:

   • Use a nail file to gently buff the shiny topcoat layer of the gel polish. This helps break the seal and allows the acetone to penetrate the layers of gel polish more effectively.

3. Soak Cotton Balls/Pads in Acetone:

   • Tear several cotton balls or pads into small pieces, enough to cover each nail. Soak them in acetone until they are saturated but not dripping.

4. Apply Acetone to Nails:

   • Place a piece of soaked cotton ball or pad over each nail, ensuring that the entire nail surface is covered. Wrap each fingertip tightly with a small piece of aluminum foil to hold the cotton in place and trap heat, which helps speed up the removal process.

5. Wait for 10-15 Minutes:

   • Allow the acetone-soaked cotton balls or pads to sit on your nails for 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the acetone time to soften and dissolve the gel polish.

6. Remove Gel Polish:

   • After the soaking period, gently apply pressure to the foil-wrapped nails and twist them slightly. This helps loosen the softened gel polish. Use a cuticle pusher or orangewood stick to gently scrape off the remaining gel polish. Be very gentle to avoid damaging the natural nail.

7. Repeat if Necessary:

   • If there are any stubborn patches of gel polish remaining, you may need to repeat the soaking process for a few more minutes and then gently scrape off the remaining polish.

8. Moisturize Your Nails:

   • After removing the gel polish, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any acetone residue. Apply a generous amount of hand cream or cuticle oil to moisturize and nourish your nails and cuticles.

9. Give Your Nails a Break:

   • If you plan to reapply gel polish or any other nail enhancements, it's advisable to give your nails a break for a few days to allow them to recover and regain strength.

10. Dispose of Materials Properly:

• Dispose of the used acetone-soaked cotton balls or pads and aluminum foil properly, as acetone is flammable and should be handled with care.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively remove gel polish at home without causing damage to your nails.

Can I use a gel top coat over regular nail polish to get a gel-like manicure?

You can, but you may not get the results you want. Regular nail polish isn’t fully dry for 24 hours (the polish may feel dry, but there are solvents deep inside that are still drying). If you put a gel top coat over regular nail polish, you’re essentially trapping in wet polish, which leads to smudging and ruining your perfect manicure.

However, if you prefer a traditional lacquer but still want to mimic the effects of a gel polish, there are hybrid gel-like top coats available. Keep in mind, these hybrid top coats may not provide the same durability as gel, but you will still get that glossy finish and extended wear. Since these top coats are lacquer, they DO NOT require curing under an LED/UV lamp. Check out some of the popular hybrid gel-like top coats we carry:

CND Gel-Like Effect Top Coat

This top coat works hand-in-hand with the award-winning CND Vinylux Longwear line, providing a high-gloss shine and creates a strong coating to help protect nails. 

Essie Gel Couture Premium Top Coat

This topcoat works hand-in-hand with the Essie Gel Couture Line. This quick-dry top coat helps protect nails and magnifies shine for an ultra-glossy finish.

OPI Infinite Shine ProStay Gloss Top Coat

Together, the ProStay Primer and Gloss provide optimum sticking power, less chipping, 60% higher gloss retention, and 25% higher shine. Use them with one of OPI's Infinite Shine colors for up to 11 days of gel-like wear and shine.

How To Apply Gel Polish

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