What is gel polish?
Gel polish is a strong, thick nail polish that strengthens the nails and lasts much longer. The difference compared to regular nail polish? Gel polish needs to be cured under a UV or LED lamp. Without a lamp, the polish remains liquid and will not harden. On average, gel polish lasts 10 to 14 days. Removing gel polish is also different from regular nail polish, as soaking or filing is required and standard nail polish remover is not sufficient. Below you can read more about removing your manicure.
Applying gel polish
Because gel polish is different from regular nail polish, the application process is also slightly different. Luckily, it’s not difficult and with some practice you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Follow these steps for a beautiful manicure:
- Lightly roughen the nails with a nail file so the polish adheres better. Do not over-file, as this can thin the nail.
- Apply a thin layer of base coat and cure it under the lamp. Curing time differs per brand, so always check. Note: the gel polish remains sticky, which is intentional.
- Time for colour. Apply a thin layer of colour over the base coat and cure it under the lamp. If the colour is not opaque enough, apply a second or third layer, curing each layer.
- Finish with a top coat. A thin layer is sufficient and must be cured under the lamp.
- Some top coats leave a sticky layer. This can be removed with a special cleanser. Some top coats do not require this, so check beforehand. Using cleanser on a no-wipe top coat can cause dull nails.
- That’s it!
Removing gel polish
Ready for a new colour? No problem. Removing gel polish takes a bit of time, but it’s not difficult. Follow these steps to prepare for a new manicure:
- File off the top coat using the coarse side of a nail file. It’s okay if you also remove some colour, but be careful not to damage the natural nail.
- Soak a cotton pad or nail wipe with remover, place it on the nail and wrap it with aluminium foil. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes.
- After soaking, gently push off the loosened gel polish with a wooden cuticle stick.
- File away any remaining gel polish and your nails are ready.
Gel polish lamp
Using gel polish requires a good lamp. You can choose between a UV or LED lamp. There is no difference in performance, although gel polish usually needs more curing time under a UV lamp. The final result is the same. Always check whether your gel polish is suitable for both lamp types, as there can be exceptions.
If you notice your gel polish is not hardening properly, it may be time to replace your lamp. Lamps lose strength over time. Did you know there are also compact, foldable lamps available? Perfect for travelling or saving space.
Gel polish set
To start using gel polish, you’ll need several products. That’s why a set is a convenient option. You’ll have all the necessary tools together and can start right away. There are also sets with multiple colours, making it easy to expand your collection.
Tips for using gel polish
Anyone can use gel polish, but these tips will make it even easier:
- Take good care of your natural nails to keep them strong. Use a nourishing primer underneath your base coat.
- Always apply thin layers of gel polish. Three thin layers are better than one or two thick ones. Thick layers may not cure properly and can lift faster.
- Apply gel polish slightly away from the cuticles. Frequent skin contact can cause allergies and keeping distance makes nails look longer.
- Nourish your nails regularly with oil to keep the skin soft and support healthy nail growth.
- Before removing gel polish, you can apply oil to the cuticles to protect the skin from filing and remover.
Buy gel polish at Boozyshop
Convinced to start using gel polish? Great. You can order all your essentials at Boozyshop. Need advice or unsure which products to choose? Our customer service team is happy to help. Spend €35 or more and choose a free gift with your order. Sounds like enough reasons to shop gel polish at Boozyshop.
