Caleb Foster
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting long-lasting, chip-free nail polish. However, as your nails grow, a gap will start to form between the natural nail plate and the artificial gel layer. This growth gap can be minimised with negative space or ombre manicures, or filled with a pop of regular nail polish. But if you notice any lifting, it is best to visit your nail technician for a refill or removal, as letting your gel nails grow out can leave you susceptible to bacteria and fungal infections.
Can you grow out gel nails?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safe to let gel nails grow out | Yes, but it is not recommended as it can lead to bacterial and fungal infections |
| How to remove gel nails | File the gel until it is thin, then soak nails in acetone, coat fingertips in aquaphor beforehand to avoid drying out skin |
| How to prolong the life of a gel manicure | Negative space manicure, ombre nails, fill the growth gap with regular nail polish or glitter nail polish |
| How long do gel nails last | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Signs that gel nails have grown out | Visible gap between the natural nail plate and the artificial gel layer, change in nail shape, lifting |
| How to strengthen natural nails | Use a product like Megastick Base or Kokoist builder gels |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail removal methods
Gel nail removal can be done in a salon by a professional or at home. While it may be tempting to pick or peel off your gel manicure, this can strip your delicate nail layers and cause damage.
At-home removal methods:
- The traditional method involves using acetone, cotton balls or pads, aluminum foil, a cuticle pusher, and a nail file. Cuticle oil and a nail buffer are optional. First, use a coarse nail file to file down the gel top coat layer until it's no longer shiny and smooth. Then, soak cotton balls in acetone and place them on your nails. Wrap each nail with foil to seal in the acetone and leave for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and wipe off the gel polish. Gently buff your nails to smooth out ridges and remove any remaining polish. Finally, wash your hands and apply cuticle oil or moisturizer to counteract the drying effects of acetone.
- Gel nail polish remover is a faster and simpler alternative to the traditional method, requiring fewer tools and no acetone. File the top coat layer until it's not shiny anymore. Apply a thick layer of gel polish remover to your nails, being careful to avoid your skin. After 5 minutes, the gel polish should start to peel or crack. Use a cuticle pusher or orangewood stick to gently remove the polish. Clean your nails with a nail buffer.
Salon removal methods:
- A gel nail fill is a quick and simple process that can be done in a salon once your natural nail has started to grow out, creating a gap between the cuticle and the gel enhancement.
- For professional removal, a manicurist will likely use the traditional method described above.
Tips to prolong your manicure:
- Negative space manicures, ombre nails, and glitter nail polish can help to minimise the visibility of growth gaps.
- Regular nail polish can be used to fill in growth gaps and create a fresh design.
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Negative space manicures
There are endless options when it comes to achieving the aesthetic of a negative space manicure. You can go symmetrical, off-centre, perfectly geometric, or oddly shaped. Negative space manicures can be simple, with clean lines, or complex, with squiggles, stripes, grids, and pinwheels.
For a unique and modern look, try an alternating French tip design. Secure a small piece of tape horizontally along the bottom half of each nail, then paint the top section of the nail as usual. Once you've applied a few coats, remove the tape and finish with a top coat.
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Lifting and its effects
Lifting is a common issue with gel nails, and it can lead to several problems. Firstly, it can cause bacteria and fungus to accumulate under the gel, which can damage your nails and cause discolouration. If the gel is thick and left on the nail, it can create a lump that extends past the middle of your nail bed. This can result in nail breakage, which may occur high up in the nail bed where the line of gel ends – as this becomes the weakest point once the gel has grown out.
Inadequate nail preparation is a primary cause of gel nail lifting. Before applying gel, it is crucial to ensure the nail plate is clean, dry, and free of any oils or residue. Failure to do so can lead to poor adhesion between the natural nail and the gel, resulting in premature lifting and chipping. Excessive buffing and thinning of the nail plate can also weaken it, leading to peeling or lifting. Therefore, it is important to lightly buff the nail to increase the surface area and create better adhesion without overdoing it.
The use of low-quality gel products can also contribute to gel nail lifting. Investing in reputable and professional-grade gel brands can help prevent this issue. Additionally, improper curing of the gel can lead to lifting. Following the manufacturer's guidelines for curing times and regularly checking the UV or LED lamp is essential to ensure the gel hardens correctly.
To address gel nail lifting, it is recommended to file off the separated product and remove the shine from the exposed natural nail. Using an e-file with a medium ending band, gently file the nail, ensuring the bit lightly touches the cuticle. Clean the nail with a swipe liquid, and apply two coats of Protein Bond to the exposed natural nail.
To prevent gel nail lifting, it is essential to maintain proper nail care. This includes keeping your hands dry, moisturising with cuticle oil, and avoiding back-to-back gel manicures to prevent nail dehydration and allow your nails to breathe. Additionally, wearing gloves while cleaning or using chemicals can help prevent lifting caused by certain substances.
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Natural nail care
Diet
Introducing the right vitamins and minerals into your diet is crucial for nail health. Include foods rich in vitamin B9, B12, iron, and magnesium, which contribute to nail cells' growth and strength. Vitamin B helps your body absorb iron and develop red blood cells, promoting nail strength. Iron carries oxygen to your nails, while magnesium is necessary for protein synthesis, which is essential for nail growth.
Nail Care Products
Nail care products can help nourish and protect your nails. Look for natural oils containing fatty acids and vitamin E, such as jojoba or olive oil, to moisturize and restore dry, brittle nails. You can also try a DIY nail treatment by mixing equal parts jojoba or olive oil with lemon juice, massaging it into your nails, and rinsing after 15 minutes. Additionally, consider using a cuticle remover to soften your cuticles and proximal nail folds.
Filing and Buffing
When filing your nails, use a high-quality etched glass file, as they don't dull, and the fine grit won't damage your nails. You can file in a see-saw motion without causing any harm to your nails. If you want to shorten your nails, file in one direction only to avoid splits and tears.
Protecting Nails
Water can negatively affect nail health, so it is recommended to wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning to protect your nails from excessive water exposure. Additionally, keeping your nails polished, even with just a base coat, helps prevent water from penetrating the nail plate.
Nail Anatomy
Understanding the anatomy of a healthy nail can help you better care for your nails. A healthy fingernail is typically uniform in colour, with a pinkish or rosy hue, and has a smooth exterior without cracks, bumps, or grooves. Vertical ridges may develop with age, running from the cuticle to the edge of the nail. The white, half-moon part of the nail is called the lunula, and the thin layer of dead skin at the base is the cuticle, which seals the nail and skin.
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Gel nail maintenance
Filling and Shaping:
- It is recommended to get a gel nail fill when you notice a gap between your cuticle and the gel enhancement, which can occur after about two weeks. The longer you wait, the more out of balance your nails can become.
- If you are unable to visit a salon, you can try filing your nails at home. Be sure to file in one direction and avoid sawing the file back and forth to prevent splits and tears.
- To shape your nails, use a nail file to gently shape the edges and create your desired shape.
Prolonging Your Manicure:
- Negative space manicures, ombre nails, and French manicures can help minimise the visibility of growth gaps and prolong the time between touch-ups.
- If you have a visible growth gap, you can fill it with regular nail polish or glitter polish. Glitter polish is especially useful for hiding lumps and bumps.
- To increase the longevity of your gel nails, avoid water when possible and wear gloves during strenuous activities.
Removal and Regrowth:
- Soaking your nails in acetone is a common method for removing gel polish, but it can be time-consuming.
- If you prefer to let your gel nails grow out, be sure to file them down regularly to maintain your desired length and shape.
- Be cautious of lifting, which occurs when the edges of the gel layer start to separate from the natural nail plate. Lifting can lead to bacteria and fungal infections.
- If you notice any damage to your nails, it is best to consult a professional nail technician for evaluation and repair.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is safe to let gel nails grow out. However, if there is any lifting of the gel from the nail, you should file it off to avoid bacteria and fungus growth that can damage your nails.
After 2-3 weeks, you will start to see a visible gap between the natural nail and the gel layer. This is caused by your nails growing while the gel remains in the same position. You may also notice a change in the shape of your nail bed.
There are several ways to prolong the life of your gel manicure. You can try a negative space manicure, which incorporates your natural nail into the design, or an ombre design, which features colour at the tip of the nail that fades down to nudes or neutrals at the base.
If you are experiencing weak, bendy, or peeling nails, gel nail polish can be a great solution to help your nails grow longer and stronger. Before applying gel, it is a good idea to ensure your nails are healthy. One product that can help with this is Megastick Base, which can prevent lifting or chipping.
Removing gel nails can be intimidating, but it is a simple process. Soak your nails in acetone, but be sure to coat your cuticles and fingertips in aquaphor first to avoid drying out your skin.
