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If youve ever gotten a manicure, chances are youre familiar with gel nails.
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Its also possible to achieve gel nails with anat-home manicure.
But before you try your own DIY gel nails, its important to get informed.
According toEunice Park, brand director atApres Nail, it takes a certain skill level to apply gel.
And without proper treatment, mistakes can lead to damage, especially when it comes togel removal.
This will take layers of your nail plate off and create thin, brittle nails.
What are gel nails?
There are two types of gel nails:hard gel nailsand soft gel nails.
The key distinguishing factor of hard gel is that it cannot be soaked off, says Park.
It can only be filed off.
Soft gel can be soaked off with acetone.
Most color gels are a soft gel formula.
But due to the give and flexibility of its formula, soft gel cannot make lengthy extensions.
How do you apply gel nails?
First, your nail should be cleaned and prepped.
Most of the time, gel is applied directly to the natural nail.
You would apply agel basecoat,color, thengel topcoat, says Park.
Most gels these days cure within 30 seconds in anLED lamp.
What are the benefits of gel nails?
Pros recommend gel nails for anyone who uses their hands often.
Gel nails are more durable than regular polish, says Park.
Are gel nails healthy?
When it comes to nail health, Park says gel nails can be nondamaging if applied and removed correctly.
With proper prep, software and removal, they definitely can be healthy for your nails, she says.
Are gel-nail UV lamps safe?
Pro tip: Dr. Garshick recommends applying abroad-spectrum sunscreenwith SPF 30 or higher, such as theSupergoop!
Hand Screen, to your hands before using your UV gel lamp for precaution.
Are gel nails better than acrylic nails?
If youre debating between gel nails and acrylic nails, there are some factors that might sway you.
That being said, both options pose benefits and potential downsides.
But any nail system can be damaging to the nails without proper experience and care, she says.
I like to think its more of a preference than saying one system is better than the other.
How long do gel nails last?
With proper prep and utility, gel nails can last two to four weeks, says Park.
How do you remove gel nails?
When it comes to removing gel nails at home, technique is key.
Its often the removal process that can be damaging.
Hanna recommends the following steps for a successful and safe removal.
Step 1: Gather your materials.
Step 2: Create your at-home salon space.
Hanna recommends placing a paper towel over your work area to collect the gel as you scrape it off.
Step 3: Break the gel seal with a nail file.
The more you file off during this step, the less time you will need to soak your nails.
Be sure to use the side of the file with a harsher grit for this step.
Step 4: Protect your cuticle and soak your nails.
Fill your glass bowl with about an inch of acetone nail polish remover.
Hanna recommendsOrly Genius Removerbecause it doesnt smell offensive, removes gel quickly, and is gentle.
Step 5: Begin gently removing the gel.
Use your cuticle pusher to gently (key wordgently) scrape the gel off your nails.
Repeat this process until the gel is completely removed.
Step 6: Buff and moisturize nails and cuticles.
Once the gel is completely removed, use a buffer to smooth your nail plate.
Generously apply cuticle oil, and massage it into your nails to nourish them.
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