When your nails shine, so do you! Now that gel nails are readily available, polish lasts a little longer. Similar to a traditional manicure, gel nails use UV light to cure the polish onto the nail. The result? Longer, stronger nails that can be painted in various shades and designs

This article teaches more about gel nails, what they are, and how you can perfect them.

What Are Gel Nails?

Gel nails, quite simply, need to be ‘cured' with an LED or UV lamp. This makes them last a great deal longer than a traditional manicure. When cared for correctly, this can be between two and four weeks, depending on your lifestyle.

They require a base coat, a color coat, and a top coat. Each gel polish coat is cured to create stronger, chip-resistant nails that aren't sticky, meaning you can carry on with your daily chores without waiting for each coat to dry.

What Are the Benefits of Gel Nails?

According to professionals, various factors make gel nails superior to traditional manicures. We've listed these below:

They're versatile. Gel nails don't have to be one shade; you can choose a different hue or for each nail if you desire. They also create a strong, flat surface for nail art, meaning you can opt for designs and standard shades.

They cause less damage to nails. Compared to nail extensions, gel nails add color and polish to your existing nails, meaning they are easy to shape and don't require intense drilling.  They're easier to remove. Gel nails can be easily removed by soaking them off. Again, this causes less damage to your nails and allows you to safely switch up designs between seasons and events.

They don't have an odor. Acrylic extensions boast a strong odor, which can be irritating to you and your nail technician. There isn't an odor with gels, and the process is much quicker, meaning you can be in and out of the salon on a lunch break. 

Staying power: As Well as adding durability to your natural nails, gel nails are an excellent option for those who use their hands regularly, as they're less prone to breakage and damage. Although, with all lacquer, giving your nails a break between manicures is a great way to ensure your nails stay strong and healthy. Many less-than-desirable nail conditions can be avoided through proper fingernail care. 

They stop you from biting your nails. Having gels on can prevent you from biting your nails, as you're less likely to want to ruin them, and the gel is too hard to remove with teeth. Repeated nail biting can make the skin around your nails feel sore, and it can damage the tissue that makes nails grow, resulting in abnormal-looking nails, which is why it's best avoided at all costs! 

What Is the Process of Getting Gel Nails?

Thinking about treating yourself to a set of gel nails? It's a good idea to more about the process first. We've listed the relevant steps below:

Step one: Once you've sourced a salon, the nail technician will begin by prepping your natural nails, which includes pushing back cuticles, tidying hangnails, and shaping the nails. The technician will normally ask you which shape you want before beginning the process. Popular options include almond, square, and stiletto, with the first two being more natural and the latter boasting a more dramatic style. 

Step two: You'll now need to pick a color, which can prove tricky as there are so many options to choose from. These range in style from matte, natural, and pastel hues to brighter shades, metallic, and glitter styles. When picking a color, think about your lifestyle. If you are looking for an everyday nail that will go with all the ensembles in your wardrobe, opt for a sophisticated, demure hue. If attending an event, such as a party, choose something brighter and more festive in style. 

Step three: The next step involves drying your nails with acetone or rubbing alcohol, then applying a primer to improve the adhesion of the gel. 

Step four: A clear base coat should be applied at this stage, followed by curing the nail under a UV lamp. Now it's time for the color coat and another session under the lamp. Finally, a top coat and one last cure. You are then good to go without having to wait for your nails to dry!  

Step five (optional): After your nails are cured, you can decide whether or not you want to apply nail art to the nail. This can include gem embellishments, colored tips, or glitter. This is secured into place with an additional topcoat. The nails are then cleansed to remove any stickiness or unwanted residue. 

The Different Kinds of Gel Nails Available

Most modern- salons offer two types of gel finishes: soft and hard gel. What is the difference between the two? Soft gels are porous and can easily be soaked off with acetone should you wish to change the hue or design. Hard gels are non-porous.

In a nutshell, soft gels are less rigid, which creates a more natural-looking nail, especially if you opt for a clear or muted tone.

The Bottom Line

Gel nails are an asset to those looking to prolong the color and appearance of their natural nails quickly and effectively without having to worry about chipping, smudging, or stickiness. The entire process takes within an hour and, in some cases, less time. For those of us who are impatient and sometimes clumsy, the quick drying process will ensure you don't smudge your fresh set!

When applied correctly, gel nails stand the test of time, meaning you only have to worry about getting them redone every few weeks (in some cases longer). This is a blessing in disguise to those on the go, those of you who are active, and those who have many events to attend or a vacation coming up.

The result? High-shine, creative nails that add elegance and hue to any ensemble in your wardrobe, taking you from day to night in an instant.