Liam Carter
Gel nail polish is known to be glossier, more durable, and longer-lasting than regular nail polish. While it may be tempting to combine the two to achieve the best of both worlds, it is generally not recommended. This is because regular nail polish dries much more slowly than gel polish, and applying a gel top coat over undried regular polish can trap moisture, leading to potential nail damage, such as fungus growth. However, some people do choose to mix the two by applying a gel base coat, followed by regular nail polish, and then sealing it with a gel top coat. This technique, known as a gelly sandwich, can provide the flexibility and variety of regular polish with the durability of gel nails.
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What You'll Learn
The risks of using regular nail polish with a gel top coat
Risks of Using Regular Nail Polish with a Gel Top Coat
Using a gel top coat over regular nail polish can be harmful to your nails and lead to several issues. Firstly, regular nail varnish takes a significant amount of time, approximately 24 hours, to completely dry. Even if it feels dry to the touch before that time, it is still vulnerable to dents, creasing, and smudging. On the other hand, gel polish dries within 30 to 60 seconds and takes on a much harder consistency. Applying a gel top coat over undried regular polish can trap moisture underneath, creating an ideal environment for fungus to grow. This can lead to potential nail damage and infections.
To avoid these issues, it is crucial to allow your regular nail polish to dry entirely before applying a gel top coat. However, even if you wait for the regular polish to dry, there are still some risks associated with combining the two types of polishes. The different properties and curing methods of regular nail polish and gel polish can affect the overall durability and aesthetics of your manicure.
For example, the gel top coat may not adhere properly to the regular nail polish, causing it to peel or chip more easily. Additionally, the shine and glossiness of the gel top coat may not be evenly distributed, resulting in an uneven or patchy appearance. Furthermore, the removal process can also be more challenging when combining regular polish with a gel top coat. Regular nail polish remover may not be effective on the gel top coat, requiring more aggressive methods that can damage your nails.
While it may seem like a convenient way to extend the life of your manicure, using a gel top coat over regular nail polish can lead to a higher risk of nail damage, fungus, and other issues. It is always advisable to stick to one type of polish and follow the recommended application and removal procedures for the best results. If you are set on combining the two, it is recommended to wait for the regular polish to fully dry before applying the gel top coat, and you can also consider applying a gel base coat first to reduce potential damage.
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How to create a 'gelly sandwich'
While it is possible to use regular nail polish with gel polish, it is not recommended. Regular nail polish takes about 24 hours to dry completely, and if you put a gel coat on top, the layer underneath might stay wet. This can lead to smudges and even nail fungus, as the gel traps moisture.
If you are set on combining the two, you can create a "gelly sandwich". Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Start with clean, prepped nails. Apply a thin, smooth layer of gel base coat and cure it under a UV or LED lamp according to the manufacturer’s instructions—usually for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Once the base is set, apply your regular nail polish in thin coats to avoid a gloppy texture. Allow the polish to dry completely, ideally for 24 hours to ensure a fully dry, smooth texture without any moisture trapped underneath.
- Apply one or two coats of jelly polish. Ensure that the first coat is dry before applying the second coat. If you are using gel nail polish, use a UV lamp to dry the nails.
- Apply the glitter polish over the jelly polish. Use whatever colours you like, and create different effects with the design and the thickness of the glitter application. For example, you can create a gradient effect by placing most of the glitter near the cuticle and gradually thinning it out towards the tip of the nail.
- After the glitter polish dries, apply an additional layer of jelly polish. This will seal the glitter layer and add a visually striking and complete look. Alternatively, add more durability to the nails with a clear coat over the jelly, enhancing the glitter.
- After the jelly polish dries, apply a gel top coat. The top coat should also be applied in a thin layer to prevent thickening or unevenness. Cure the gel top coat under the lamp. This turns the top coat into a hard, protective layer that is immediately fast-drying.
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Builder gel: what is it and how does it work?
Builder gel is a type of gel polish that adds strength to your natural nails, allowing them to grow without breaking. It is available in two varieties: BIAB (Builder Gel in a Bottle) and hard gel. BIAB is a thick gel that adds a durable overlay to the nails or nail tips, strengthening and repairing them. Despite its thickness, it is lightweight and provides a soft, natural finish. Hard gel, on the other hand, is a rigid layer that needs to be filed off and cannot be soaked off like BIAB.
The application process for builder gel is different from traditional nail polish. First, the nails are cleaned, shaped, and buffed, and the cuticles are cleaned. Then, a bead of builder gel is gently applied to the nail to build up and strengthen the apex (the highest point on your nail bed). This process is known as building an apex, doing a structured overlay, or adding structure. The gel is swiped across the nail to build up the apex and add strength, and it needs to be cured under UV or LED light.
Builder gel typically lasts between two to five weeks, and it is less prone to lifting than regular gel nail polish. It costs between $40 to $80 or more, depending on location, salon, and design. While it can be done at home, there is a learning curve to perfecting the application.
Now, regarding your initial query about using regular nail polish with gel polish, it is generally advised against. Regular nail polish dries slowly, taking about 24 hours to fully cure, whereas gel polish dries within 30-60 seconds. Applying a gel top coat over undried regular polish can trap moisture, leading to potential issues like nail fungus. Therefore, if you want to combine the two, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours for the regular polish to dry completely before applying the gel top coat.
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Pros and cons of regular nail polish
Regular nail polish, also known as normal nail polish or nail varnish, has been used for manicures at home for many years. It is a lacquer that has been refined to protect nails from drying out and cracking.
Pros of Regular Nail Polish
Regular nail polish is easily accessible and can be applied at home without the need for professional equipment. It is also a good option for those who like to change their nail colour frequently, as it does not last as long as gel polish.
Cons of Regular Nail Polish
Regular nail polish takes a long time to dry, usually about 24 hours to dry completely. It is also more prone to chipping and peeling, and may not provide strength to the nails.
Pros and Cons of Combining Regular Nail Polish with Gel Polish
Some people may be tempted to combine regular nail polish with a gel top coat to achieve the benefits of both. While this can result in a shiny, hard nail surface, it is not recommended as the regular nail polish may not be completely dry, even if it feels dry to the touch. Applying a gel top coat can trap moisture, leading to potential nail damage, such as fungus growth.
However, if you are still set on combining regular nail polish with gel polish, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after applying the regular nail polish to ensure it is completely dry before applying the gel top coat.
Another technique, known as the "gelly sandwich", involves applying regular nail polish between layers of gel base and top coats. This method can provide the strength and durability of gel polish while still allowing the use of regular nail polish colours.
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Pros and cons of gel nail polish
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for those seeking a glossy and durable manicure. While it offers a range of benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Here are the pros and cons of gel nail polish:
Pros of Gel Nail Polish
- Long-lasting: Gel nail polish is known for its durability and can last for weeks without chipping or peeling. This means you can enjoy your manicure for an extended period without worrying about touch-ups.
- Quick-drying: Unlike regular nail polish, gel polish dries within 30 to 60 seconds under a UV or LED light, saving you time and hassle.
- Glossy finish: Gel manicures provide a high-gloss finish that is challenging to achieve with regular nail polish. The gel topcoat adds a layer of protection, making your nails appear freshly manicured for longer.
- Strength and flexibility: Gel nail polish gives your nails extra strength, allowing them to bend and flex without breaking. It acts as a protective layer, helping your nails grow without chipping or breaking.
- Mimics natural nails: Gel nail polish is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural nails. It can be used to achieve a variety of nail art designs, from a timeless French manicure to more creative styles.
Cons of Gel Nail Polish
- Removal process: While gel nail polish is long-lasting, removing it can be tricky. It often requires slight pressure and careful techniques, such as using nail polish remover clips and acetone, to avoid damaging your nails.
- Potential nail damage: Prolonged use of gel nail polish can negatively impact your nail health. Nails need to breathe and receive oxygen and nutrients, so constantly covering them with polish can lead to weakened nails.
- Time and cost: Gel manicures typically require more time and cost more than regular nail polish services. This is partly due to the application and removal processes, which involve multiple steps and specific protocols.
- Limited nuance designs: While gel nail polish offers a wide range of designs, it may not be the best choice for nuance designs popular in Japanese nail art. The gel tends to stay put and does not have the same self-levelling properties as traditional colour gels.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use regular nail polish with gel polish. However, it is recommended that you wait 24 hours for the regular nail polish to dry before applying the gel top coat. This is because gel polish dries within 30-60 seconds, and if applied too soon, the regular polish underneath might stay wet, which can lead to smudges and nail fungus.
To apply regular nail polish with gel polish, start with clean, prepped nails. Apply a thin, smooth layer of gel base coat and cure it under a UV or LED lamp for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Once the base is set, apply your regular nail polish in thin coats to avoid a gloppy texture. After the regular polish is dry, apply a gel top coat.
Regular nail polish offers a wider variety of colours than gel polish, and it is easier to remove at home, allowing for more frequent colour changes.
Regular nail polish is thinner and more delicate than gel polish, and it dries naturally. Gel polish is stronger, more durable, and glossier than regular nail polish, and it requires curing under a UV or LED lamp to dry.
When removing traditional polish from a gel manicure, it is important to use nail polish remover, not straight acetone, as acetone can begin to break down the gel polish underneath.
