Liam Carter
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for those looking to switch up their manicure. Not only is it long-lasting, but it's also durable, flexible, and chip-resistant. But can you put UV gel on natural nails? The short answer is yes. Builder gel, a type of hard gel, can be applied to natural nails to strengthen and lengthen them while also protecting them from further damage. The application process involves cleaning, shaping, and buffing the nails, as well as brushing the polish in a particular horizontal motion. The gel is then cured under a UV or LED lamp, which hardens the gel and provides a durable shine and protection.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To enhance natural nails, make thin nails look thicker, or correct their shape. |
| Application | Builder gel is applied with small, horizontal strokes to ensure the polish goes across the entire nail. |
| Durability | More durable than regular gel nail polish, lasting about three to five weeks. |
| Flexibility | More flexible than gel extensions or acrylics, allowing natural nails to grow and strengthen. |
| Safety | May cause allergic reactions such as redness, itching, or swelling. |
| Curing | Requires curing under a UV or LED lamp. |
| Removal | Safe removal is crucial to keep natural nails undamaged. |
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What You'll Learn
Builder gel application
Before applying builder gel, it is important to prepare your nails. Start by removing any false nails, old gel, or nail polish. File your nails into the desired shape and use a nail buffer to remove the shine from the surface. Push back your cuticles and trim any dead skin or cuticles. Cleanse your nails with an alcoholic-based nail cleanser to remove any oils or debris. You can also use a dehydrator and primer to improve adhesion.
Now you are ready to apply a gel base coat, sealing off the exposed edge and curing it under an LED or UV lamp. You can then begin the builder gel application. There are two types of builder gel: Builder in a Bottle (BIAB) or builder gel in a pot. For easy application, use a BIAB, which is similar to applying regular nail polish. For more intricate designs, use builder gel in a pot with your tools and brushes. Using a nail brush, apply the builder gel to the center of the nail and spread it towards the edges. Ensure an even application for BIAB.
After applying the builder gel, you can add colour by applying a layer of gel polish. Cure the gel polish according to your lamp instructions and add another layer if you want a richer colour. Apply a top coat to seal the gel polish in and cure it under the lamp. If needed, wipe away the tacky layer of the top coat. Moisturise your cuticles with cuticle oil.
Builder gel manicures remain flexible and less prone to breaking if you follow certain aftercare steps. Regularly apply cuticle oil to the base of your nails to keep the cuticles healthy and support nail growth. Wear gloves when performing tasks that might expose your nails to harsh chemicals or extreme conditions. Get a fill every 2-3 weeks to maintain the structure and appearance of your gel nails. When it's time to change your manicure, safely remove the gel to keep your natural nails undamaged.
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Gel nail advantages
UV gel can be applied to natural nails to achieve a flawless salon-quality look. The process involves applying a gel base coat, curing it under a UV lamp, and then applying the builder gel. This helps strengthen and protect the natural nails, providing a gorgeous manicure that can last for up to two to three weeks without chipping or cracking.
Gel nail polish has become increasingly popular due to its durability and ability to protect natural nails. Here are some advantages of gel nail polish:
Long-lasting
Gel nail polish is known for its long-lasting formula, typically lasting two to three weeks without chipping or peeling. This means you can enjoy your manicure for an extended period without worrying about upkeep.
Quick-drying
Gel nail polish dries quickly under a UV or LED lamp, usually taking around two minutes. This eliminates the risk of smudging or denting your manicure, which is common with traditional nail polish.
Natural look and feel
Gel nail polish is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural nails. It provides a glossy finish that enhances the appearance of your nails without looking artificial.
Strength and protection
High-quality gel polishes help strengthen and protect natural nails. The gel creates a hard, durable layer that reinforces the nail, allowing it to grow and repair itself. This is especially beneficial for those with thin or weak nails.
Customizability
Gel nails offer a wide range of colours and finishes to choose from. You can achieve anything from a timeless French manicure to more intricate designs and applications. This customizability allows you to express your creativity and experiment with different looks.
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Gel nail removal
Yes, you can put UV gel on natural nails. However, it's important to note that the use of gel nail polish may carry some risks, such as skin irritation. Therefore, it is always advisable to test the gel on a small nail area before a full application to identify any adverse reactions.
There are two main methods for removing gel nail polish: the traditional method and using a gel nail polish remover. The traditional method involves using acetone, which is the most effective way to remove gel nail polish at home. Here are the steps you can follow:
- Work on one hand at a time.
- Choose a well-ventilated area as acetone has a strong smell.
- Protect your work area with a cloth to avoid acetone stains.
- Cut 10 squares of aluminum foil, big enough to wrap around each fingertip.
- Tear off 10 pieces of cotton balls or pads to fit just the nail bed of each nail.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to each cuticle and the surrounding skin to protect your skin from acetone.
- Soak each piece of cotton in acetone.
- Place the soaked cotton on top of the nail and wrap it with aluminum foil. Ensure a tight seal.
- Leave the foil on for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the foil and gently scrape off any remaining gel nail polish with a washcloth run under warm water.
- Wash your hands with gentle soap and water to remove the acetone.
- Apply petroleum jelly to your cuticles and the surrounding skin for the next seven days to reduce any irritation.
The second method involves using a gel nail polish remover, which is faster and gentler on the nails. This method does not require an acetone bath and takes only 5 minutes.
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Gel nail aftercare
Yes, you can put UV gel on natural nails. In fact, gel nail polish can be used on both natural nails and acrylics.
Gel nails are a beautiful, durable alternative to traditional nail polish. They are made up of acrylic monomers and oligomers that bond together when placed under UV light, triggering the curing process in only seconds.
Avoid Water and Chemicals
Water and chemicals are not friends with gel nails. Avoid long periods in water, such as long baths, swimming, or washing dishes. Always wear gloves when doing household chores like cleaning, gardening, or anything that involves harsh chemicals.
Moisturise and Hydrate
Just like your skin, your nails and cuticles need love too. Use a quality cuticle oil and moisturising lotion regularly, focusing on the surrounding skin and cuticle area. Avoid applying lotion or oil directly to the nail surface.
Be Careful with Your Nails
Treat your nails gently and avoid using them as tools to open or pick at things. Be extra careful in the first 24 hours after application, avoiding intense heat such as saunas, hot baths, or sunbeds.
Avoid Filing and Pushing Cuticles
Filing your nails and pushing your cuticles back can break the seal of the gel, leading to chipping. If filing is necessary, do it gently and always finish filing in a downward direction.
Protect Your Nails from Stains
Dyes from new jeans, socks, tights, shoes, or newly coloured hair can stain your gel polish. Always wash your hands thoroughly after coming in contact with chlorine, insect repellent, or sunscreen. Wear gloves when cooking with spices that can stain, such as turmeric or curry powder.
Maintain and Remove Gel Nails Properly
Get regular touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to address new nail growth and maintain the structure and appearance of your gel nails. When it's time for a new look or to give your nails a break, return to the salon for professional removal to ensure your natural nails remain undamaged.
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Gel nail health risks
Yes, you can put UV gel on natural nails. In fact, gel nail polish can be used on both natural nails and acrylics.
While gel nail polish is a beautiful and durable alternative to traditional nail polish, it may come with some health risks. 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 cumulative UV exposure increases UV-induced skin damage and risk over time.
The gel nail polish itself also contains chemicals that can be harmful, such as acrylate and methacrylate, which are known to cause allergic reactions, including rashes (contact dermatitis) and, less commonly, hives (urticaria).
Improper removal of gel nail polish can also temporarily damage your nails. It is recommended to have the gel polish removed by a manicurist, as it can be tempting to pick or peel it off, which is one of the worst things you can do for your nails. If removing the gel polish yourself, it is important to follow the correct process to avoid damaging your nails.
To minimise the health risks associated with gel nail polish, it is advisable to take a "nail polish holiday" by going polish-free for one to two weeks or longer, allowing your nails time to repair and rehydrate. Applying a moisturising product, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles several times daily will help minimise brittleness and prevent your nails from chipping.
Additionally, when getting a gel manicure, you can apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands to protect your skin from UV radiation. You can also wear dark, opaque gloves with the fingertips snipped off before your nail polish is applied.
If you notice any unusual changes to your nails or experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as redness, itching, or swelling, it is recommended to consult a professional.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can put UV gel on natural nails.
First, remove any false nails, old gel, or nail polish. File your nails into the desired shape and use a nail buffer to remove the shine from the surface. Push back and trim your cuticles, and remove any dead skin. Cleanse your nails with an alcoholic-based nail cleanser to remove any oils or debris. You can also use a dehydrator and primer to help adhesion.
Apply a gel base coat, sealing off the exposed edge, and cure it under a UV lamp. Using a nail brush, apply the builder gel to the center of the nail, spreading it towards the edges. Cure the gel under a UV lamp according to the lamp instructions. Apply a top coat to seal the gel polish in and cure the top coat under the lamp.
To ensure the longevity of your UV gel manicure, regularly apply cuticle oil to the base of your nails. Wear gloves when performing tasks that might expose your nails to harsh chemicals or extreme conditions. Get a fill every 2-3 weeks to address any new nail growth.
