Caleb Foster
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting manicure. Unlike traditional nail polishes, which can chip within days, gel polishes are known for their durability, shine, and chip-resistant finish, lasting up to three weeks with proper care. However, the application and removal process for gel polishes can be more complex, and some worry about potential damage to their natural nails. So, can you put gel nail polish on natural nails, and is it a good idea?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Durability | Gel nail polish is more durable than traditional nail polish |
| Chip-resistance | Gel nail polish is more chip-resistant than traditional nail polish |
| Application | Gel nail polish is harder to apply than traditional nail polish |
| Removal | Gel nail polish is easier to remove than traditional nail polish |
| Damage to natural nails | Gel nail polish can damage natural nails if removed incorrectly |
| Drying | Gel nail polish requires a UV or LED lamp to dry |
| Top coat | Gel nail polish does not require a top coat |
| Shine | Gel nail polish has a higher shine than traditional nail polish |
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What You'll Learn
Gel polish application process
Applying gel polish on natural nails can seem daunting, but with the right technique, you can achieve a salon-quality manicure at home. Gel polish is known for its durability, shine, and chip-resistant finish, lasting up to three weeks with proper care.
- Start with a clean canvas by removing any old polish from your nails using a non-acetone nail polish remover. Ensure your nails are completely free of residue and oils, as this can prevent the gel polish from adhering properly.
- Shape your nails to your desired length and style using a nail file. Common shapes include oval, square, and almond.
- Gently buff the surface of your nails with a nail buffer to remove the natural shine and create a slightly rough surface. This helps the gel polish adhere better.
- Push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher, being careful not to cut them to avoid infections. Removing excess cuticles ensures that the gel polish will apply evenly without lifting at the edges.
- Apply a nail dehydrator to remove any remaining oils from your nails. This step is especially important if you have naturally oily nails.
- Follow the nail dehydrator with a primer to help the gel polish bond to your nails.
- Apply a thin layer of gel base coat to the entire nail, including the edges, to prevent lifting.
- Cure the base coat under a UV or LED lamp for the recommended time, usually around 30-60 seconds. The base coat acts as a foundation for the gel polish.
- Choose your desired gel polish color and apply a thin, even layer to each nail. It is important to apply thin coats to avoid bubbles and ensure a smooth finish.
- Cure the gel polish color under the UV or LED lamp for the recommended time.
- If desired, repeat steps 9 and 10 to apply additional coats of gel polish for a more opaque or vibrant finish.
- Consider applying a top coat to extend the life of your gel manicure and maintain its shine.
Remember, peeling off gel polish can damage your natural nails, so always use an acetone-soaked cotton ball and wrap your nails in aluminum foil to remove the gel polish gently.
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Gel polish removal process
There are several methods for removing gel nail polish from natural nails, but board-certified dermatologist Shari Lipner, MD, PhD, FAAD, says that acetone is the most effective way to do it at home. Here is a step-by-step guide to the process:
Prepare your work area:
Line your work area with a cloth and plastic wrap to protect it from acetone stains and damage. Acetone has a strong smell, so make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.
Prepare your nails:
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or cuticle oil to the skin around your nails to protect it from the acetone. You can also use Vaseline as a makeshift alternative.
Remove the gel nail polish:
There are two main methods for removing gel nail polish with acetone:
The traditional method:
- Cut 10 squares of aluminium foil, big enough for each fingertip.
- Tear off 10 pieces of cotton wool or cotton balls that fit just the nail bed of each nail.
- Prepare a bowl filled with acetone and soak the cotton wool balls until they are saturated.
- Place an acetone-soaked cotton wool ball on each nail and wrap your fingertip in foil to hold it in place.
- Set a timer for 15 minutes.
- Lightly massage the foil and pull it away from your nail.
- When the gel has lifted, gently remove any excess with an orangewood stick, going from cuticle to tip.
Dr Lipner's method:
- Line your work area with plastic food wrap instead of foil. This creates a tighter seal, so the acetone is less likely to drip.
- Place a thick towel on top of the plastic wrap.
- Apply acetone to your nails.
- Leave the plastic wrap on for 10 minutes.
- When you remove the plastic wrap, most or all of the gel nail polish should be gone.
- Remove any remaining gel nail polish with a washcloth that you’ve just run under warm water. Use the wet washcloth to gently rub off any remaining polish, taking care to rub only the nail and avoid the surrounding skin.
Aftercare:
Wash your hands or feet with a gentle, fragrance-free soap and water to remove the acetone. Gently rub petroleum jelly into your cuticles and the skin around your nails every day for seven days to reduce any irritation caused by the acetone.
Alternatively, you can let your nails grow out and clip them once a week to remove the gel nail polish. This is a slow process, taking about six months for fingernails and 12 to 18 months for toenails. It is important to resist the urge to pick at your gel nail polish, as this can damage your nails.
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Benefits of gel polish
Gel nail polish is a type of lacquer that can be applied to natural nails. It offers several benefits over traditional nail polish.
One of the biggest advantages of gel nail polish is its longevity. Gel manicures can last up to two to four weeks without chipping, peeling, or breaking, whereas regular nail polish is more prone to smudging and chipping due to its longer drying process. This makes gel polish a cost-effective and time-saving option, as manicures last longer and do not require frequent touch-ups.
Gel nail polish is also known for its durability and shine. It provides a high-gloss, superior finish that retains its shine for several days, making nails look freshly manicured. The curing process under UV or LED light sets the gel polish, making it more durable and resistant to chipping than traditional nail polish.
Additionally, gel polish is versatile and easy to apply. It can be used with various nail art techniques, such as the popular gel polish marble effect or glitter, allowing for creativity and experimentation with colour and design ideas. Each layer of gel polish dries quickly, curing under the light to become fully dry before the next layer is applied, resulting in a smooth and smudge-free finish.
Gel nail polish also has the benefit of strengthening and protecting weak or brittle nails. It acts as a natural barrier against dirt and pollutants, helping to reinforce nails and prevent breakage.
However, it is important to note that while gel polish offers these benefits, it is recommended to give nails a break between applications to prevent dryness and weakening.
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Drawbacks of gel polish
While gel nail polish can be applied to natural nails, there are several drawbacks to its use. Firstly, the curing process involves exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which can cause skin ageing and DNA damage that may lead to skin cancer. This is a concern as the hands are frequently used and rarely protected from UV exposure. To mitigate this risk, it is recommended to apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, before the nail-painting process.
Secondly, gel nail polish contains chemicals like acrylate and methacrylate, which are known allergens that can cause contact dermatitis (rash) and, less commonly, urticaria (hives). Removing gel polish can also damage the nails if not done carefully. Incorrect removal methods, such as peeling off the gel polish, can lead to cracking and peeling of the nails, and the nail plate may become weakened, dry, and brittle. These issues can take months to resolve as the damaged nail grows out.
Additionally, gel nail polish can make natural nails weaker over time. Some individuals find that they need to constantly have gel polish applied to prevent nail breakage. This can result in a cycle of dependency on gel polish to maintain nail strength, requiring regular manicures to keep the nails from breaking.
Furthermore, the application and removal of gel nail polish require specific techniques to avoid damaging the nails. Improper techniques during these processes can lead to nail breakage and other issues. It is recommended to have gel polish removed by a professional manicurist to minimise the risk of damage.
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Gel polish vs. regular nail polish
Yes, you can put gel nail polish on natural nails. However, it is important to note that gel polish may make your nail beds weaker, although it won't harm your actual nails. The removal process can expose your nail beds to damage, so it is recommended to get it done by a professional.
Now, let's delve into the differences between gel polish and regular nail polish.
Application Process
Regular nail polish is easy to apply and can be left to dry naturally. On the other hand, gel polish requires a LED lamp to harden and cure. The gel is exposed to UV light, which initiates the curing process, where the short chains of molecules in the gel connect to form long chains, resulting in a strong network.
Durability
Gel polish is known for its longevity. It stays on twice as long as regular nail polish, with a wearing time of up to 21 days. Gel polish is more robust, scratch-resistant, and less sensitive to damage, ensuring your nails remain beautiful for an extended period.
Removal
Removing gel polish is more labor-intensive than taking off regular lacquer. You need to remove the shiny layer of gel polish, soak your nails in acetone, and then gently slide off the softened gel. This process can take a considerable amount of time. In contrast, regular nail polish is easier to remove, allowing for more frequent colour changes.
Cost and Time
Gel manicures tend to be more costly and time-consuming than regular manicures. The application process for gel polish involves additional steps, such as filing/shaping, and it usually needs to be done in a salon. Removing gel polish also requires dedicated time, as it is a more intricate process.
Personal Preference
The choice between gel polish and regular nail polish ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you're someone who frequently changes nail colours, regular nail polish might be a better option due to its ease of removal. However, if you're looking for a long-lasting manicure and don't mind the extra time and cost associated with gel polish, then it could be the right choice for you.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, gel nail polish can be used on natural nails. In fact, gel polish tends to last longer and chip less when applied over natural nails.
To apply gel nail polish to natural nails, start by removing any old polish and ensuring your nails are free of residue and oils. Shape your nails and gently buff the surface to create a rough texture, allowing the gel polish to adhere better. Push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher, being careful not to cut them. Apply a thin layer of gel base coat, covering the entire nail, and cure it under a UV or LED lamp. Finally, apply your desired shade of gel polish in a thin, even layer.
Gel nail polish offers several advantages over traditional nail polish. It is known for its durability, shine, and chip-resistant finish, lasting up to three weeks with proper care. Gel polish also provides an extra layer of protection for your natural nails against everyday wear and tear.
To remove gel nail polish, avoid peeling it off as this can damage your natural nails. Instead, soak a cotton ball in acetone, place it on your nail, and wrap it with aluminum foil. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then gently push off the gel with a cuticle pusher. After removal, use a nail buffer to smooth out ridges and apply nourishing nail oil to restore moisture.
While gel nail polish offers long-lasting results, it requires additional tools and a more complex application process compared to traditional nail polish. Gel polish needs to be cured under a UV or LED lamp, and proper removal is essential to avoid damaging your natural nails. Some people may also find that their nails become weaker with frequent gel manicures.
