Liam Carter
Getting your nails done is a fun way to express yourself and add a pop of colour to your look. But what happens when your nails start to grow out? Can you fill in gel nails with the same colour gel? Well, it depends. If you're talking about gel polish, then no, you'll need to remove the colour and start again. However, if you're using a builder gel or sculpting gel, you can simply file off the colour and leave the base gel, then add a new layer of builder gel and your colour of choice. This method is also much less damaging to your nails than removing and redoing them from scratch each time. So, if you're looking to change up your gel nail colour, ask your salon about doing a fill instead!
Can you fill in gel nails with the same color gel?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you fill in gel nails? | Yes, it is possible to fill in gel nails. |
| How is it done? | By removing the grown-out portion of the manicure (about 80-90%), prepping the nails, and filling in the grown-out part with a new manicure. |
| Benefits of filling gel nails | Filling gel nails can help keep the nails strong, prevent over-prepping of the natural nail, and provide a protective layer that allows the nails to grow without breaking. |
| Products to use | It is important to use a high-quality gel product meant for extended wear, such as a builder gel or sculpting gel, to protect the natural nails. |
| Allergies | Allergies can be avoided by using high-quality products and educating oneself on the safe execution of a gel manicure. |
| Removal process | Unlike gel polish, hard gel resists removal with acetone and requires filing or grinding. |
| Color options | Hard gel is often limited to neutral colors like white, clear, and pink, while gel polish comes in a wider range of colors. |
| Combination of hard gel and gel polish | Hard gel can be used for strength and structure, and gel polish can be painted on top for color. |
| Nail lamp | Both hard gel and gel polish require curing under a nail lamp (UV or LED light) to solidify. |
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What You'll Learn
The benefits of gel nails
Gel nails have become increasingly popular due to their many benefits over traditional nail polish. One of the main advantages is their durability. Gel nail polish is made of a thicker, gel-like substance that, when cured under UV or LED light, creates a hard, chemical-resistant coating. This makes gel nails highly chip-resistant, allowing them to last for several weeks without chipping or peeling.
Another benefit of gel nails is their ability to strengthen and protect natural nails. The gel polish acts as a reinforcing layer, helping to prevent breakage and promote nail growth. Additionally, gel nails offer a wide range of colours and finishes, providing customers with numerous options to choose from. The curing process also ensures that gel nails dry quickly, eliminating the risk of smudging or denting the manicure.
The application process for gel nails is similar to that of traditional nail polish. However, each coat of gel polish must be cured under a UV or LED light for 30 to 60 seconds. This helps lock in the colour and ensures long-lasting wear. While gel nails can be removed at home using acetone, it is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid damaging the natural nails.
Gel nails offer a convenient and aesthetically pleasing option for those seeking long-lasting, chip-resistant manicures. With proper care and maintenance, gel nails can enhance the overall health and appearance of natural nails.
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Removing gel nails
Another at-home method for removing gel nail polish is to use a gel nail polish remover. This method is faster and simpler than the acetone method, and it requires fewer tools. It is also less damaging to the nails. First, use a coarse nail file on the top coat layer until it is no longer shiny and smooth. Then, apply a thick layer of gel polish remover to the nails, being careful not to get it on the skin. After 5 minutes, the gel polish should start to peel, crack, bubble, or burst. Use a metal cuticle pusher or orangewood stick to gently remove the gel polish from each nail, and then clean your nails with a nail buffer.
If you are looking to remove your gel nails without using any chemicals, Dr Lipner recommends simply letting your nails grow out. Clipping your nails once a week will help to remove the gel nail polish and prevent your nails from catching on clothing and other objects. It is important to resist the urge to pick at your gel nail polish, as this can damage your nails.
When removing gel nail polish in a salon, they will usually file the nails to remove the gel polish. This can be done as a standalone appointment, or in conjunction with the application of a new set of gel nails.
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Preparing your nails for gel colour
Preparing your nails correctly is an important step in achieving a beautiful gel manicure that lasts. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing your nails for gel colour:
Step 1: Cut and Shape Your Nails
Start by cutting your nails to your desired length. You can then use a nail file to shape them into your preferred style. Common nail shapes include round, square, pointy, almond, or oval. It is important to decide on the shape before proceeding, as gel nails cannot be shaped once the polish is applied, unlike acrylic nails.
Step 2: Buff and Smooth Your Nails
The next step is to buff the tops of your nails gently. This will help to remove a bit of the top layer of your nail, creating a rough surface for the gel polish to adhere better. You can use a nail buffer or a fine-grit nail file for this step.
Step 3: Clean Your Nails and Cuticles
Rinse your hands with water (no soap) and remove any dead skin from your nails and cuticles. Ensure your nails are completely clean and dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Apply a Base Coat
Apply a thin, even layer of a high-quality base coat to your nails. Be careful not to touch the cuticles, but do apply the base coat to the top (free edge) of your nail. This step will help the gel colour adhere better and protect your nails from discolouration. The base coat does not need to be cured under a lamp.
Step 5: Apply Your Gel Colour
Once your base coat is dry, you can apply your chosen gel nail colour. Again, apply a thin layer, and be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing under a UV or LED lamp. Remember that gel nail polish stays wet until it is cured under the light.
It is important to invest in good-quality products and take your time during each step to ensure the best results for your gel manicure.
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Applying gel colour
Firstly, cut, file, and shape your nails. You can create round, square, pointy, almond, or oval nails, depending on your preference. Clean up your cuticles with a cuticle stick and acetone. Once you have the basic shape of your nail, use a cuticle stick to push back any dead skin off of your nail plate.
Next, apply a super-thin base coat to your dry nails. You can grab your favourite base coat and slowly apply it using the applicator on the cap. Work in smooth vertical strips and wipe off any base coat you get on your surrounding skin. You can dry the base coat under an LED lamp for 1-2 minutes or let your nails air dry for 10 minutes. Some gel nail polishes will come with a specific primer to use instead of a base coat. If your gel polish has a primer, use that instead of the base coat.
Now, you can apply your gel colour. Apply a thin layer of your gel polish. It will probably look streaky, but that is normal for the first layer. Use the applicator from the bottle to spread the colour over each nail. Paint all the way through the tip of your nail as well as over the surface. This will keep the gel from curling back off your nail.
Cure the first layer of your gel nail polish under a UV or LED lamp. Follow the curing instructions that came with your gel nail polish. Typically, you'll cure them under an LED lamp for 30 seconds, or a UV lamp for 2 minutes. Curing allows the polish to harden in a uniform way. If you don't cure your nails under the lamp, the gel polish may dry unevenly. Gel nail polish stays wet until it's cured under light. You cannot apply gel nail polish without a UV or LED lamp.
Finally, seal your gel nail polish with a layer of clear top coat to protect the colour. You can also use a top coat every few days to protect the colour and increase its longevity.
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Aftercare for gel nails
Gel manicures are a great way to get long-lasting, fast-drying nails. However, to make the most of your manicure, there are a few aftercare steps to keep in mind.
Firstly, it is important to keep your natural nails healthy. This means regularly trimming and filing them into a comfortable shape. Be sure to file gently and always finish in a downward direction to avoid damaging the seal of the gel manicure, which can make it prone to chipping. Keep your nails clean and free of any damage or conditions, and take a break of at least two weeks between gel manicures to let your natural nails breathe.
It is also crucial to protect your gel manicure from chipping or peeling. Avoid activities that involve hands-on work, such as gardening or cleaning, right after getting your nails done. If you must engage in these activities, wear protective gloves. Exposing your nails to harsh chemicals, scrubbing them vigorously, or exposing them to heat (including direct sunlight and hot water) can cause the gel polish to break down, chip, or lose its colour.
To prevent your gel polish from lifting or peeling, avoid picking or pulling at your nails. If you notice any lifting, contact your nail technician to assess if a repair is necessary. To extend the life of your gel manicure, consider applying cuticle oil daily. Cuticle oil moisturizes your cuticles and surrounding skin, seals in colour, and helps prevent chipping. Simply massage a few drops onto each nail and gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher.
Additionally, be mindful of products that contain solvents, as these can dissolve your manicure. Solvents can be found in everyday products like makeup remover, insecticides, and certain beauty products. Tinted lotions, suntan creams, hair products, and highly coloured foods can also discolour your gel polish, so be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after use.
Finally, when it's time to remove your gel polish, contact your nail technician to do so safely and harmlessly. They will use the appropriate products and techniques to ensure your natural nails remain healthy and undamaged.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can fill in gel nails with the same color gel. However, it is important to note that not all gel products are suitable for fills. It is recommended to use a gel designed for extended wear, such as a builder gel, to protect the natural nail and provide a strong base for the new color.
To fill in your gel nails at home, you will need to remove the top coat, any nail designs, and the previous color. You can do this by filing or using an e-file. Then, prep your nails and fill in the grown-out area with a new manicure.
Filling gel nails instead of completely removing and redoing them can help prevent damage to your natural nail bed. It also saves time and money, as you don't need to book multiple appointments or purchase new gel nail kits.
It is recommended to fill your gel nails every 2-3 weeks to maintain their appearance and strength. However, some people suggest letting your nails "recover" every 3-4 applications by removing the gel and giving your nails a break before reapplying.
Yes, some salons offer gel fills as a service. However, it may depend on the salon and the products they use. It is always best to ask beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your request.
