When you’ve got a fresh manicure, you feel like a million bucks. And while a traditional polish might take 30 seconds to dry and chip in just a few days, a gel manicure will last up to three weeks without losing any of its shine or color. This makes it a great choice for those who travel a lot, work on their hands a lot or have a busy lifestyle that can’t always make it to the nail salon every couple of weeks.
Nail Gels
Unlike regular nail polish which uses dyes or pigments to add color and texture, nail gels contain a special formula that helps to strengthen the nails and provide a more natural look. The gel can be applied directly to the nail, or on top of a base coat to help protect the nails and make them more durable. It can also be used to fill in cracks and other imperfections on the nail surface, making it more even and preventing chipping.
Gel nails are typically made with a base coat, a topcoat and a special polish, which can be either clear or colored. The base coat helps to keep the polish from peeling or fading and provides a smooth surface for the nail to grip the topcoat. The topcoat acts as a sealant, helping the polish to stay shiny and protected for longer. The gel polish itself comes in a wide variety of colors and textures to suit any style, from a subtle matte finish to shimmery metallics.
Another benefit of a gel manicure is that it doesn’t require a dryer, which can save time and energy. However, the curing process of a gel manicure exposes the nails to UV rays, which can damage the skin and cause discoloration over time. If you’re able to find a salon that uses LED lighting for the curing process, that’s a much safer option.
Lastly, a gel manicure doesn’t have to be as thick and heavy as acrylics. In fact, a natural nail gel can be just as thin as a regular polish and give your nails a glossy, healthy-looking appearance. The gel is also less likely to peel or chip, and can even grow out if you stop getting them done regularly.
If you’re a frequent nail salon client or have a big event coming up that requires a chip-free manicure, a gel manicure is definitely worth the splurge. Just be sure to moisturize your nails and cuticles daily to minimize brittleness, and use cuticle oil when you get a manicure to keep the natural nail strong underneath the gel. And remember to remove the gel nail polish properly, using acetone instead of a nail polish remover wipe. It’ll help to prevent acetone build-up and keep your nails looking shiny and healthy. Gels à ongles