
There are various methods and products used to apply fake nails, including UV base coat, UV glue, regular nail glue, and gel nail extensions. Some people have been using UV base coat instead of UV glue to attach fake nails to their natural nails. This method involves applying a regular/non-UV base coat to the natural nails, followed by a UV base coat, which acts as glue for the fake nails. While some people have found success with this technique, others question its durability, suggesting that a thin gel base coat may not be strong enough to hold fake nails for an extended period. It's important to exercise caution when experimenting with different nail products to avoid potential allergies or damage to natural nails.
Can base gel be used as nail glue?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Some people find that base gel works as nail glue and keeps the nails on for about two days. |
| Durability | Base gel may not be strong enough to hold fake nails for long. |
| Safety | Using base gel as nail glue may help prevent a gel allergy and cause less damage to nails when removing them compared to using nail glue. |
| Application | To use base gel as nail glue, apply primer, then UV base coat on real nails, cure, then apply another layer of UV base coat to attach fake nails and cure again. |
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What You'll Learn
- Using primer, then UV base coat on fake nails on top of a non-UV base coat on real nails
- Nail prep, primer, UV base coat, cure, UV base coat, cure
- Regular thin gel base coat may not be strong enough to hold fake nails
- Base coats can be used as an alternative to nail glue
- Base coats do less damage to nails than nail glue

Using primer, then UV base coat on fake nails on top of a non-UV base coat on real nails
Using primer and a UV base coat on fake nails, on top of a non-UV base coat on real nails, is a method some people use to adhere the fake nails to their real nails. This method involves several steps: nail prep, primer application, curing, UV base coat application (as a base coat on real nails), curing again, UV base coat application (as glue to attach fake nails to real nails), and a final curing step.
The use of a primer is important as it helps to create a smooth base for the UV base coat to adhere to. Primers can be acid or acid-free and work to remove any oils on the nail, with acid primers creating microscopic holes in the nail plate for better adhesion. It is worth noting that acid primers are harsher on the skin and contain more potent chemicals, so caution is advised.
Additionally, the use of a UV base coat as a glue for fake nails is a technique that has gained popularity on YouTube. While some people have found success with this method, others have reported that the UV base coat is not strong enough to hold the fake nails for long, and it may not be suitable for full cover nail tips as it can cause an allergic reaction if the gel does not cure fully.
Overall, while using primer and UV base coat on fake nails, on top of a non-UV base coat on real nails, can be a viable option, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of potential issues such as allergies and adhesion strength.
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Nail prep, primer, UV base coat, cure, UV base coat, cure
The process of applying gel nails typically involves several steps, including nail preparation, the application of a primer, a UV base coat, and curing. Here is a detailed breakdown of each step:
Nail Prep:
Before applying any products, it is essential to prepare the nails by cleaning and buffing them. This ensures that the natural nail plate is free from any oils, grease, or debris that may interfere with the adhesion of the gel manicure. Proper nail preparation is crucial for achieving optimal results and extending the longevity of the manicure.
Primer:
After nail prep, a primer is applied to the nail plate. Primers are available in two main types: acid primers and acid-free primers. Acid primers contain corrosive acids that create microscopic holes in the nail plate, enhancing the adhesion of the gel polish. They are suitable for individuals with problematic nail plates or those with hormonal issues or certain medications that affect their nails. On the other hand, acid-free primers are milder and act as a double-sided sticky tape, providing a strong bond between the natural nail and the gel polish. This type of primer is commonly used and is known for its gentle formula.
UV Base Coat:
Following the primer application, a UV base coat is applied to the nails. The base coat serves as a protective layer between the natural nail and the gel polish, promoting healthy nails. Some base coats are enriched with vitamins, proteins, and calcium to nourish the nails. For optimal results, two layers of base coat are recommended to increase the thickness and resilience of the manicure.
Cure:
Once the UV base coat has been applied, the nails are cured using a UV or LED light. Curing hardens the gel polish, ensuring that it adheres securely to the nail plate. Proper curing is essential for the longevity of the gel manicure, and it typically requires exposure to the light source for a specified amount of time, such as 60 seconds under LED light or 120 seconds with UV light.
UV Base Coat (as glue):
In some cases, individuals may choose to use a UV base coat as a substitute for nail glue when attaching fake nails to their real nails. This method involves applying a regular/non-UV base coat to the real nails, curing it, and then using a UV base coat as glue to attach the fake nails. While this approach may not be as strong as traditional nail glue, some people prefer it as it causes less damage to the nails upon removal.
Cure:
After applying the UV base coat as glue and attaching the fake nails, the nails are cured again using a UV or LED light. This final curing step ensures that the fake nails are securely adhered to the real nails, providing a lasting manicure.
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Regular thin gel base coat may not be strong enough to hold fake nails
While some people have reported success in using a UV base coat as nail glue, it is important to note that a regular thin gel base coat may not be strong enough to hold fake nails for an extended period. The durability of the base coat as glue may depend on various factors, such as the quality of the product, the application process, and individual nail care practices.
In a Reddit discussion, users shared their experiences with using a UV base coat as nail glue. Some individuals found that the base coat held their fake nails in place for a shorter duration compared to gel glues, which tend to pop off more easily. However, others suggested that using a base coat could result in less damage to natural nails when removing the fake nails, as there is no need for soaking.
It is worth mentioning that the success of using a base gel coat as nail glue may vary from person to person and depend on the specific products used. While some individuals have reported positive experiences, others may find that the thin consistency of a regular gel base coat is not sufficient to securely hold fake nails in place for an extended period.
To increase the chances of success, it is recommended to follow proper nail preparation procedures, including the use of a primer, and to allow adequate curing time for the UV base coat. Additionally, investing in a higher-quality UV base coat or builder gel specifically designed for nail extensions may provide better adhesion and longevity for fake nails.
Overall, while it is possible to use a base gel coat as nail glue, the thin consistency of regular gel nail polish may not provide the same strength and durability as dedicated nail adhesives. For those seeking a longer-lasting solution for their fake nails, it may be advisable to consider using products specifically formulated for nail adhesion, such as builder gels or nail glues, which are designed to provide stronger and more durable bonds.
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Base coats can be used as an alternative to nail glue
While the general consensus is that nail glue works better to adhere fake nails to your natural nails, some people have found success using a base coat as an alternative.
In a Reddit thread, multiple users have reported that they have used a UV base coat as nail glue, with some saying it works better than gel glue, which tends to pop off. One user reported that they used a regular/non-UV base coat on their real nails, followed by a UV base coat on the fake nails, which were then attached to their real nails.
Another user reported that they used a base coat on their natural nails, followed by Mylee's 5-in-1 builder gel to glue on clear tips, which they then painted over as normal. They reported that this method made their manicure last much longer than normal glue.
If you are considering using a base coat as an alternative to nail glue, it is important to be cautious and do your research first, as some people have expressed doubt over whether a thin gel base coat would be strong enough to hold a fake nail for long. It is also important to consider the potential for a gel allergy if you are using gel products.
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Base coats do less damage to nails than nail glue
While some people use nail glue to attach fake nails to their real nails, others opt for a base coat. The use of a base coat as nail glue has gained traction, with people discussing it on YouTube and Reddit.
Base coats typically have a runnier consistency compared to nail glue, which can result in more clean-up and filing due to excess product getting under the nail and into the sidewalls. However, some people prefer using a base coat as it causes less damage to their nails when removing fake nails. This is because, unlike nail glue, it does not require soaking to remove.
It is important to note that using a full-cover nail tip over gel can be dangerous as it may not cure properly, potentially leading to an allergic reaction. Therefore, when using a base coat as nail glue, it is recommended to only use clear tips to ensure proper curing.
While base coats may not provide the same level of adhesion as nail glue, some people find that it holds their fake nails in place for a sufficient amount of time. However, the durability of the base coat as nail glue can vary, with some people experiencing their fake nails popping off within a week or two.
In conclusion, while base coats may not offer the same strength and longevity as nail glue, they are a preferred choice for those who want to minimise damage to their natural nails during the removal process.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can. Some people have used UV base gel coats as an alternative to nail glue to attach fake nails to their real nails.
You can apply a primer and a UV base coat to your real nails, cure it, and then apply another layer of UV base coat to attach the fake nails.
Some people have found that using a UV base gel coat causes less damage to their nails than regular nail glue when removing fake nails. It is also reported to last longer than regular nail glue.











































