Gel manicures have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a long-lasting, glossy finish that can withstand daily wear and tear. However, with this added durability comes the need for proper care and maintenance. In this article, we'll discuss the best tips and tricks for taking care of your gel polish nails to ensure they stay looking flawless for as long as possible.
What is a Gel Manicure?
Before we dive into the care tips, let's first define what a gel manicure is. A gel manicure is a type of nail treatment that uses a gel-based polish that is cured under a UV or LED light. This process creates a hard, glossy finish that can last up to two weeks without chipping or peeling. Gel manicures are popular because they offer a longer-lasting alternative to traditional nail polish.
Gel Nail Tips for Longer-Lasting Nails
While gel manicures are known for their durability, there are a few things you can do to ensure your nails last even longer. Here are some gel nail tips to keep in mind:
- Before your manicure, make sure your nails are clean and free of any oils or lotions. This will help the gel polish adhere better to your nails.
- When applying the gel polish, make sure to cap the edges of your nails to prevent chipping.
- After each coat of polish, cure your nails under the UV or LED light for the recommended time. This will ensure the polish is fully cured and will prevent any lifting or peeling.
- When removing your gel polish, be patient and gentle. Do not pick or peel the polish off, as this can damage your natural nails. Instead, use a gentle acetone-based nail polish remover and soak your nails for 10-15 minutes before gently wiping off the polish.
- If you notice any lifting or peeling of the polish, do not try to fix it yourself. Instead, visit a professional nail technician to have it fixed properly.
Gel Polish Nails Care Tips
Now that you know how to properly apply and remove your gel polish, let's discuss some tips for taking care of your nails in between manicures.
Moisturise Your Cuticles
One of the most important things you can do to maintain healthy gel polish nails is to moisturise your cuticles regularly. The chemicals in gel polish can be drying to your cuticles, so it's important to keep them hydrated. Invest in a good cuticle oil and apply it daily to keep your cuticles looking and feeling healthy.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
While gel polish is known for its durability, it's important to remember that it is still a chemical-based product. To prevent any damage to your nails, avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals such as bleach, cleaning products, or acetone-based nail polish removers. If you must use these products, make sure to wear gloves to protect your nails.
Don't Pick or Peel Your Polish
As tempting as it may be, picking or peeling your gel polish off is a big no-no. Not only can this damage your natural nails, but it can also cause the polish to lift and peel prematurely. If you notice any lifting or peeling, visit a professional nail technician to have it fixed properly.
Use a Protective Top Coat
To keep your gel polish looking shiny and new, use a protective top coat every few days. This will help prevent any chipping or peeling and will keep your nails looking fresh in between manicures.
Keep Your Nails Short
While long, glamorous nails may be tempting, it's important to keep your nails short when wearing gel polish. Longer nails are more prone to breaking and can cause the polish to lift and peel. Keep your nails at a manageable length to prevent any damage.
Take Breaks Between Manicures
It's important to give your nails a break in between gel manicures. Constantly wearing gel polish can weaken your natural nails and make them more prone to damage. Try to give your nails a break for at least a week in between manicures to allow them to breathe and recover.
Common Myths About Gel Polish Nails
There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding gel polish nails. Let's debunk some of the most common ones.
Myth: Gel Polish is Bad for Your Nails
There is a common belief that gel polish is damaging to your natural nails. While it's true that improper application or removal can cause damage, when done correctly, gel polish is not harmful to your nails. In fact, gel polish can actually help strengthen your nails and prevent them from breaking.
Myth: Gel Polish Causes Cancer
There have been rumours circulating that the UV light used to cure gel polish can cause cancer. However, studies have shown that the amount of UV exposure during a gel manicure is minimal and does not pose a significant risk. To be safe, you can always apply sunscreen to your hands before your manicure or opt for an LED light, which emits less UV radiation.
Myth: You Can't Remove Gel Polish at Home
While it's always recommended to have your gel polish removed by a professional, it is possible to remove it at home. However, it's important to be patient and gentle when removing the polish to avoid damaging your natural nails.
Gel Polish Nails vs. Traditional Nail Polish
Now that you know how to properly care for your gel polish nails, you may be wondering how they compare to traditional nail polish. Here are some key differences between the two:
- Durability: Gel polish is known for its long-lasting, chip-resistant finish, while traditional nail polish may only last a few days before chipping or peeling.
- Drying Time: Gel polish requires curing under a UV or LED light, which can take a few minutes. Traditional nail polish can take up to an hour to fully dry.
- Removal: Gel polish requires soaking in acetone to remove, while traditional nail polish can be removed with regular nail polish remover.
- Cost: Gel manicures are typically more expensive than traditional manicures, but they also last longer.
In Conclusion
Gel polish nails are a great way to achieve a long-lasting, glossy finish. By following these care tips and debunking common myths, you can ensure your gel polish nails stay looking flawless for as long as possible. Remember to always have your gel polish applied and removed by a professional to prevent any damage to your natural nails. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy beautiful, durable nails without any worries.
