What is gel nail polish? An Ultimate Guide to gel nail paint

It’s easier than ever before to have glossy, colourful nails that don’t chip as easily. Here’s everything you wanted to know about gel nail polish and how to apply it

Gel nail polish is all the rage. And for good reason. It dries faster, lasts long, and has a high-shine finish. For the busy working professional, gel nail polish isn’t just cosmetic but rather a question of convenience.

Once cured under an LED lamp or UV light, this polish forms an overlay on your nail and lasts for as long as three weeks, without chipping or cracking easily. This also means you don’t have to visit your nosy parlour lady as often as you did. And you don’t have to worry about how your nails look when you’re making a point! 

What is the difference between nail polish and gel nail polish?

The primary difference between nail polish and gel nail polish is that the latter needs to be cured using a UV or  LED lamp, while regular nail polish air dries. That’s because the chemical composition of gel nail polish is different. It is made of stronger ingredients that better grasp the nail and do not chip or show the effects of wear and tear easily. Which is why gel nail polish lasts a lot longer than regular nail polish. Usually, two to four coats (including a top coat) will give you the desired long-lasting result. The time spent under the UV or LED lamp varies as per the manufacturer’s instructions. But, typically, each layer is cured for 30 to 60 seconds. Once you are done, you only need to see a nail technician when it’s time for a refill (to cover the new nail growth) or removal.

How to apply gel nail polish

Gel nail paint is applied the same way that normal nail polish is — by brushing it on in layers using a nail brush. However, that’s where the similarities end. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying gel nail polish. 

1. Alcohol or acetone is rubbed on your nails to clean them thoroughly before gel nail polish is applied to remove all dirt and anything that might stop it from binding to your nails.
2. Gel nail polish is applied in a layer, just like regular nail polish.
3. Next, it is cured with a UV or LED lamp for anywhere between 30 and 60 seconds. This seals and hardens the polish, forming a solid layer of colour. 
4. Layers are added till you achieve the desired effect. Remember, each coat of gel nail polish needs to be cured so for long-lasting results. You are done as soon as your top coat cures! And remember to nourish your nail bed and cuticles with cuticle oil to offset any damage from the alcohol or acetone. 

What are the benefits of gel nail paint?

 Once you go gel, you are unlikely to go back to regular nail paint and will find yourself reaching out for it regularly..

• Gel nail polish is quick to dry

Each coat of gel nail polish only needs about 30 to 60 seconds to dry under a UV or LED lamp. The ‘curing’ under the lamp triggers the chemical process that hardens the gel nail polish. So no more flapping your hands about trying to dry your polish faster and worrying about smudging or ruining the coat by inadvertently touching something. 

•  Gel nail polish doesn’t peel or chip easily

Since gel nail paints use a durable formula that dries quickly, such nails do not chip, crack or smudge easily. This means your nails will stay as bright and shiny as the day you got them done. 

•  Gel nail polish is great for nail art

Since gel nail polish is easier to apply and lasts longer, it is a great option when getting nail art done. It is easier to apply layers to get your desired design as each layer is cured and fixed in place. It gives you the opportunity to experiment with designs and colours on another level.  

• Gel nail polish lasts long

By keeping your nails nourished and hydrated, with regular application of a moisturising hand lotion and cuticle oil, and avoiding hot water, you can help your gel nail paint manicure last from two weeks to a month. That is a long time when compared to regular nail paint. 

Does gel nail paint mean your nails are fake?

No, applying gel nail paint does not make your nails fake. Just like applying regular nail polish doesn’t mean your nails are fake. Gel nail polish merely creates a covering on your natural nails. It is a polish that is applied to your nails for effect.

Is gel polish good for my nails and is applying gel nail paint safe?

Absolutely. While fake nails are glued on top of your natural nails, gel paint is applied as a layer of enhancement. Here are some tips on how to keep your nails healthy when opting for gel manicures.

Moderation is key: Gel manicures are safe when done in moderation. You need to give your nails a break between gel manicures to let them rehydrate and heal from any kind of damage. It is a common misconception that this is done because nails need to ‘breathe’. Nails, like hair, are made of keratin, so they don’t need to ‘breathe’ the way skin does. But giving them a break between applications is good for their health.

Let the professionals do it: It’s also important to get a gel manicure done by a professional so as to ensure the right tools and techniques are used for application and removal. For example, using files not meant for natural nails, scraping/peeling off gel paint, or roughing up the nail with aggressive techniques can cause damage. 

Give them TLC after removal: The gel removal process, which involves covering your nails with acetone-soaked cotton balls wrapped in foil, can leave your nails dry and brittle. So take care of your nails and skin after removal. Apply hydrating moisturizers and cuticle oils to repair the cuticle, nails, and surrounding skin.

Now that you know the basics, it’s time to get creative with your nails!