What is gel nail polish?
You’ve probably seen those glossy, chip-free manicures that last for weeks.
Regular nail polish chips in just days. Gel nail polish is different. It uses a special formula that hardens under UV or LED light.
But is it safe for your nails? Let’s find out what gel polish really is and how it compares to regular polish.
The Basics of Gel Nail Polish
Gel nail polish is a special coating that lasts much longer than regular polish. It contains ingredients called photoinitiators that react to light.
Unlike regular polish that air-dries, gel polish needs UV or LED light to harden. This process is called curing.
The light triggers a chemical reaction that makes the polish solid and durable in seconds.
Gel polish offers several advantages:
1. Long-lasting wear: Gel manicures last 2-3 weeks without chipping or peeling. You won’t need frequent touch-ups like with regular polish.
2. Instant drying: Your nails are completely dry the moment you leave the salon. No waiting around or worrying about smudges and dents.
3. High-gloss shine: The finish stays shiny and glossy throughout the entire wear time. Regular polish dulls after just a few days.
5. Chip resistance: Daily activities like typing, cleaning, and washing dishes won’t damage the polish. The hard coating protects against everyday wear.
6. Strengthens weak nails: The thick coating acts as a protective shield for brittle nails. It prevents them from breaking or splitting easily.
How Gel Nail Polish is Applied
Gel nail polish application follows a specific layered process.
Professional Salon Application
A professional application ensures the best results. Trained technicians know how to avoid common mistakes.
What happens at the salon:
- Nails are filed, shaped, and buffed smooth for better adhesion
- The base coat is applied and cured under the lamp
- Two color coats are applied with curing between each layer
- The top coat is added and cured for the final glossy shine
At-Home Application
You can do gel nails at home with the right tools. This saves money over time but requires practice.
What you need:
A UV or LED lamp, gel base coat, color polish, top coat, nail file, buffer, and cuticle pusher. Home kits cost $50-$100 initially.
How to apply at home:
- Clean and prep your nails by filing, shaping, and buffing
- Apply thin, even layers of base, color, and top coat
- Cure each coat for the recommended time in your lamp
Home application takes practice. Your results will improve as you learn the technique.
How is it Removed?
Proper removal is crucial to keeping your nails healthy. Gel polish doesn’t just wipe off like regular polish.
The correct method involves soaking. Cotton pads soaked in acetone are placed on each nail and wrapped with foil. After 10-15 minutes, the gel softens and slides off gently.
Why removal matters:
The damage doesn’t come from gel polish itself. It comes from improper removal. Some salons use electric files to remove gel. This can also damage nails if done roughly.
Always let professionals remove gel polish or follow proper soaking methods at home. Your nails will stay strong and healthy.
Are Gel Nails Bad for You?
Gel nails aren’t bad when used correctly. But they do have some risks worth knowing.
UV light exposure
The curing lamps emit UV rays that can age your skin. Apply sunscreen on your hands before appointments. This saves them from damage
Nail damage
Peeling or picking off gel polish is the biggest problem. It strips away layers of your natural nail and leaves them thin and weak.
Dryness
Gel polish can dry out your nails over time. The chemicals strip natural oils from your nails. Take breaks between manicures to let them recover.
Allergic reactions
Some people develop redness, itching, or swelling around their nails. Stop using gel polish if any of this happens to you.
How to protect from damage:
- Never peel off gel polish yourself
- Give your nails a break every few months
- Use cuticle oil daily to keep nails moisturized
- Choose clean, reputable salons
Most people can safely enjoy gel manicures with proper care and removal techniques.
Understanding Regular Nail Polish
Regular nail polish is the traditional type you’ve probably used at home. It comes in a bottle and applies with a brush.
How it works:
Regular polish contains solvents that evaporate when exposed to air. This process takes 10-20 minutes. You typically apply a base coat, two color coats, and a top coat. Full drying can take up to two hours.
Benefits of regular nail polish:
- Easy to remove as it takes it off in minutes
- Much cheaper than gel manicures
- Easy to switch colors whenever you want
Regular polish typically lasts 3-7 days before chipping. It works well for people who like changing colors frequently or prefer at-home manicures.
Which is Better: Gel vs Regular Nail Polish
Choosing between gel and regular polish depends on your needs. Here’s how they compare side by side.
| Feature | Gel Nail Polish | Regular Nail Polish |
|---|---|---|
| Drying Time | Instant (30-60 seconds under lamp) | 10-20 minutes to touch dry, up to 2 hours fully |
| Longevity | 2-3 weeks without chipping | 3-7 days before chipping |
| Removal | Needs soaking in acetone (10-15 minutes) | Quick removal with a regular remover |
| Cost | $35-$65 per salon visit | $5-$15 for an at-home application |
| Nail Damage | It can weaken nails if removed incorrectly | Minimal damage to nails |
| Flexibility | Less flexible, can feel thick | More flexible, thinner coating |
| Color Changes | Requires salon visit or proper removal | Easy to change anytime at home |
Both types have their place. Regular polish works well for people who like variety. Gel polish suits those who want low-maintenance, long-lasting results.
Which One Should You Choose?
The right choice depends on your lifestyle and what matters most to you. Here’s when each option works best.
When to Choose a Gel Manicure
Gel manicures offer durability and convenience. They’re perfect for people with busy schedules or active lifestyles.
You need long-lasting results: Gel stays perfect for 2-3 weeks without chipping. It’s ideal for vacations, weddings, or when you can’t visit salons frequently.
You work with your hands: The durable finish resists damage from typing, cleaning, and daily activities that would chip regular polish quickly.
You want instant results: Walk out with completely dry nails. No waiting time or risk of smudging.
When to Choose a Regular Manicure
Regular manicures offer flexibility and affordability. They’re great for people who love variety and at-home nail care.
You love changing colors
Switch nail colors every few days without acetone soaks or salon visits. Regular polish removes in minutes.
Budget matters
Regular manicures cost $5-$15 compared to $35-$65 for gel. You can easily do them at home.
You have sensitive nails
Regular polish doesn’t require UV light or harsh removal. It causes minimal damage to natural nails.
Consider Your Needs
Think about your daily routine. Do you need nails that last through lots of activity? Gel might be your answer.
Want flexibility to experiment with colors? Regular polish gives you that freedom.
Both options can look beautiful. The best choice is the one that fits your lifestyle.
Can You Combine Gel Nail Polish with Regular Nail Polish?
You can combine them, but it’s not recommended. Some people apply regular polish over cured gel polish. This lets you change colors without removing the gel base.
However, regular polish won’t last as long on gel. It may peel or chip within days. The slick gel surface doesn’t let regular polish grip well.
If you want to try it, apply regular polish over a fully cured gel manicure.
Conclusion
So, what is gel nail polish? It’s a durable option that gives you weeks of chip-free shine.
Regular polish offers flexibility and ease at a lower cost. Both have their strengths.
And, are gel nails bad for you? Not if you take proper care. Remove them correctly, give your nails breaks, and moisturize regularly.
The choice depends on your lifestyle and what matters most to you. Ready to try gel polish? Find a good salon and enjoy beautiful nails that last.
Or stick with regular polish for easy color changes at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What is Gel Nail Polish Made Of?
Gel nail polish contains oligomers, monomers, and photoinitiators. These chemicals react to UV or LED light and harden into a solid coating.
Do Gel Nails Cause Cancer?
No, gel nails don’t cause cancer. The UV exposure from curing lamps is minimal and similar to a few minutes in sunlight.
What is Gel Nail Polish vs Shellac?
Shellac is a brand name for a specific type of gel polish made by CND. Regular gel polish is thicker and lasts slightly longer, while Shellac is thinner and easier to remove.
