What is UV Gel Manicure?
What is UV Gel Manicure?
A gel manicure is a long-lasting polish that requires a UV or LED nail lamp to cure. It usually follows a three-step process and includes a base coat, colour polish, and topcoat.
Each gel polish layer needs to be cured for a few minutes before applying another coat. This allows the photo initiators in the formula to react and convert into a solid polymer.
What is UV Gel Polish?
Gel polish is a type of nail polish that requires curing under a UV or LED light to dry. This process allows the ingredients in the polish to catalyze and form a plastic film over the nails that is long-lasting. Gel polish can be applied on natural nails or to gel nail extensions.
Gel nail polish is typically removed using acetone and lasts on average two to three weeks. It is a great option for clients who want a longer lasting manicure that is more durable than traditional nail polish.
When choosing a gel polish, there are many factors to consider such as color intensity and consistency. It is important to choose a product that is well-formulated with high pigment and doesn’t contain diluted ingredients. It is also critical to choose a brand that is easy to apply and remove. Gel polish that is difficult to soak off or has a inconsistent application can lead to early chipping.
It is also important to keep in mind that the UV and LED lamps used for curing gel polishes emit UVA rays which can be harmful to the skin on the hands. Taking preventative measures by applying sunscreen to the hands and wearing gloves can reduce this Uv Gel Polish risk. It is also recommended that clients use cuticle oil, avoid picking at the nails and file their nails with light pressure to help maintain the health of their natural nails.
How is UV Gel Polish cured?
The UV gel nail polish system relies on a special base coat and curing light to set the color. The base coat has photo-initiators that absorb the UV light and start a chemical reaction called polymerization. The polymerization creates a hard plastic structure that sets the color on the nails and helps it be moisture resistant.
The base coat is cured for 30-60 seconds under the UV lamp. The color is then applied and cured for a similar amount of time. Once the final top coat is applied and cured, the nails are then ready to wear. Gel polish lasts for up to two weeks with proper care and upkeep, and you can extend the longevity of your manicure by using a cuticle oil.
When applying and curing your gel polish, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and remain still while under the UV light. It’s important to use an LED or UV nail light that emits the correct wavelength and wattage to cure the gel polish correctly. Many cheap knock-offs of UV lamps do not produce the correct wavelength, which will result in under-curing.
It’s best to paint and cure each finger individually, starting with the index finger. This allows the fingers to fully dry and avoids smudges and dents. Once your manicure is cured, you can use an acetone-soaked cotton pad or paper towel to wipe off the tacky residue and reveal your beautiful new nails!
What are the benefits of UV Gel Polish?
Unlike traditional polish, UV Gel Polish is cured with LED or UV light and requires no heat to set. This allows for a faster dry time and long lasting results. It also has a less harsh effect on natural nails and can be removed in around 20 minutes by soaking with acetone.
One of the best parts about a gel manicure is that it lasts longer than regular nail polish, with some brands able to deliver up to 3 weeks of chip-resistant wear. It also provides a smoother and more even finish than traditional polishes and can be applied to natural nails, as well as artificial ones.
If you’re looking for a long-lasting and durable gel polish, it is important to use high quality products and book Uv Gel Polish supplier with trained technicians. It is also recommended to use a protective top coat that prevents peeling and chipping. Taking care of your nails is also key, including daily filing and moisturising.
Another popular option is a hybrid polish, like CND Shellac, which combines the low viscosity of traditional nail polish with the gel-like formula and patented curing technology of UV cured polishes. This innovation was a huge breakthrough in the nail industry because it allowed clients to achieve the same gorgeous, natural looking nails as gel without having to use a roughened surface for adherence and is budge-proof, fade-resistant and can be easily removed with a special acetone-based remover.
What are the disadvantages of UV Gel Polish?
The curing process exposes your nails to UV rays that can damage them. This can include thinning the nail plate, yellowing of the nail bed and a permanent darkening of the skin around the nails. This is not something that can be reversed and is why dermatologists are concerned about gel manicures.
Another disadvantage of a gel manicure is that it can be difficult to remove. This is because the polish must be soaked in acetone to dissolve it and this can be quite damaging to the nails, especially if the process is repeated often. It also can lead to the appearance of darkened lines at the nails’ tips.
Because of these disadvantages, gel nails are not as popular as traditional nail polishes. However, they are a great option for people who want to have long-lasting and beautiful nails that don’t require a lot of maintenance.
One of the main disadvantages of gel nails is that they require a UV or LED light to cure. This can be a problem for people who are sensitive to UV rays, as it can cause premature aging of the nails and may increase the risk of skin cancer. It is recommended that people who are prone to this condition avoid getting gel manicures or use a LED nail lamp that emits less UV rays.