Sophia Delgado
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting long-lasting nail enhancements. However, as the natural nail bed expands, gel nails can grow out, creating a visible gap between the cuticle and the gel nail. This can occur as soon as two weeks after application and can be frustrating for those who have spent time and money on their manicure. While it is generally safe to let gel nails grow out, it is not recommended, as the gap becomes more noticeable over time, and the gel nail may become prone to lifting, cracking, or chipping. This article will explore the options available when gel nails grow out, including safe removal techniques and ways to disguise the growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Appearance | As the natural nail grows, a gap between the cuticle and the gel nail becomes noticeable, which may not look desirable. |
| Removal | Gel nails can be removed at home or at a salon. At home, a nail file, acetone, cotton balls, and aluminum foil are needed. In a salon, a technician will use a drill or an electric file. |
| Maintenance | Gel nails can be maintained by filing and shaping the free edge of the nail regularly. |
| Water exposure | Nails should be kept away from water as much as possible as they can absorb water and expand, loosening the bond between the gel and the nail. |
| Strenuous activity | Strenuous activities with the hands should be avoided as they can cause the gel to lift or pop off. |
| Cuticle | The cuticle is dead skin that grows on the nail bed. It should be removed before applying gel nails as gel does not adhere well to it. |
| Safety | It is generally safe to let gel nails grow out. However, leaving gel nails on for too long can make them more difficult to remove and may damage the natural nail. |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nails grow out faster than natural nails
Gel nails typically last between 2 and 4 weeks before they start to grow out. However, some people find that their natural nails grow too fast for gel nails, causing a visible growth from the bottom that can be irritating. This may be due to the type of gel used, as some gels are known to dry out the natural oils from the nail bed, causing the cuticle to retreat.
The growth of your natural nails will determine how long your gel manicure lasts before you start to see signs of growth. One sign that your gel nails are growing out is a visible gap between the natural nail plate and the artificial gel layer. This gap occurs because your natural nails are growing, but the gel is not moving with them. As a result, the edges of the gel nails may start to lift and become weak and brittle from exposure to water and air, potentially damaging your natural nails.
To address this issue, you can try incorporating the design of the gel nails into your natural nail plate as they grow out. This will help you maintain the look of your gel nails without needing a refill or replacement. Alternatively, you can opt for a negative space manicure, which blends the artificial and natural nails together. Other options include classic French manicures or ombre designs, which can be achieved with regular nail polish.
If you choose to remove the gel nails instead of letting them grow out, it is recommended to visit a professional nail technician. Removing gel polish at home can damage your natural nails. Additionally, improper removal can leave your nails susceptible to bacteria and fungal infections.
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Water exposure weakens the bond between gel and nail
Water exposure weakens the bond between the gel and nail. Nails are highly porous, much like a sponge, and can easily absorb water. This means that when nails are exposed to water, they swell, and when they dry out, they shrink. This constant expansion and contraction put a significant amount of strain on the nail cells, making them more susceptible to weakening, peeling, and breakage.
Chlorinated water, in particular, can be harsh on nails as it strips them of their natural oils, leading to dehydration. Similarly, exposure to chemicals and cleansers in the water can also contribute to nail damage. This is why frequent swimming in pools, beaches, or lakes during the summer can lead to significant nail damage in the long term.
To protect your nails from water damage, it is recommended to wear gloves when performing household chores that involve water, such as washing dishes or cleaning. Applying a layer of topcoat to your nails before swimming can also help to harden and strengthen them while blocking water from penetrating.
Additionally, it is important to restore moisture to your nails and skin after water exposure. Using a hand cream containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or lanolin can help draw in and trap moisture. Cuticle oils formulated with essential oils and antioxidants can also protect and boost hydration.
Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of the effects of water exposure on the health of your nails and take the necessary precautions to minimize damage.
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Gel nail removal techniques
There are several techniques for removing gel nail polish. The traditional method involves using acetone, which is the most effective way to remove gel nail polish at home. However, this method can be harsh on the nails and skin, so it is important to take precautions when using acetone. One way to do this is by using plastic food wrap or aluminium foil rather than foil to create a tighter seal and prevent dripping. It is also recommended to protect the skin with petroleum jelly or cuticle oil and to use a mild soap after removal to avoid irritating the skin.
To use the acetone method, first, cut cotton balls or strips to the size of each nail and soak them in acetone. Place each piece of cotton on the nail and wrap it with plastic food wrap or foil, ensuring a tight seal. Leave this on for 10-15 minutes, then remove the wrap and use a washcloth run under warm water to gently rub off any remaining polish.
Another method to remove gel nail polish is to use a gel nail polish remover, which is faster and requires fewer tools. This method does not use acetone, so it is less likely to damage the nails and skin. To use a gel nail polish remover, first, use a coarse nail file to remove the top coat of the gel polish. Then, apply a thick layer of the gel polish remover and wait 5 minutes for it to soak in. Finally, use a metal cuticle pusher or orangewood stick to gently push off the gel polish and clean your nails with a nail buffer.
For those who want to avoid the hassle of removal, Dr. Lipner recommends simply letting your nails grow out and clipping them once a week to remove the gel nail polish. This method is slow, taking about 6 months for fingernails and 12-18 months for toenails, but it helps prevent damage to the nails.
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Gel nail maintenance
Keep Them Clean and Dry: Water and chemicals are the enemies of gel nails. Always wear gloves when washing dishes, cleaning, or gardening to protect your nails from harsh chemicals and dirt. Regularly wash your hands and gently brush underneath the tips to remove bacteria and buildup.
Moisturize and Condition: Keep your nails and cuticles hydrated to prevent brittleness. Moisturize the surrounding skin and cuticle area, and apply cuticle oil daily to keep the nail area strong and healthy. Conditioning will also keep your natural nail beds in good condition.
Get Regular Fills: To maintain the longevity of your gel nails, get them filled every 2-3 weeks. Filling in the gaps will prevent lifting and chipping, and save you money in the long run by extending the time between full gel nail applications.
Be Gentle and Avoid Peeling: Treat your gel nails with care. Avoid using them to open cans, peel stickers, or as tools. Never pick or peel at your gel nails, as this can damage both the gel and your natural nails.
Protect from Heat and UV Rays: Minimize exposure to excessive heat, such as hot water in showers or dishwashing, as it can weaken the bond between the gel and your nail. When outdoors, apply sunscreen to your hands and nails to block out harmful UV rays.
Maintain a Comfortable Length: While gel nails are strong, longer nails are more prone to damage. Keep your gel nails at a comfortable length that allows you to go about your daily activities without worry.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your gel nails stay looking sharp, vibrant, and healthy for longer.
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Gel nail fills
Firstly, you will need to file down your existing gel polish. It is important to remove around 80-90% of the gel, including the shiny top layer and most of the base gel, to create a neat surface to work with. Be careful not to apply too much pressure when filing, as this could damage your natural nail or surrounding skin.
Once you are satisfied with the amount of gel removed, it is time to focus on your cuticles. After a few weeks of wearing gel nails, your cuticles will likely have grown back, which can cause your nails to look messy. So, cuticle care and prep are crucial steps in the gel nail fill process.
The next step is to buff your nails, creating a rough texture for the gel to adhere to. Again, be careful not to over-buff your natural nails, as this can cause damage or thinning. Use a lint-free nail wipe to remove any dust, followed by a nail prep solution to ensure your nail plate is clean and free of dirt and oils before applying the gel.
Now, you can apply a thin layer of builder gel or magic extender gel, starting at the apex of the nail and pushing the brush towards your cuticle. Float the gel over the entire nail plate and polish, creating a smooth finish. You can add a little extra gel to the centre of the nail to build up the apex and add structure. Turn your nail upside down for a few seconds before curing to allow gravity to give you more height.
Finally, cure your nails under an LED lamp for 60 seconds or a UV lamp for 120 seconds. You can then sculpt your nails using a nail file to achieve your desired shape.
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Frequently asked questions
After 2-4 weeks, you may notice a gap between your natural nail plate and the artificial gel layer. You might also see that the edges of the gel are lifting, or that your nail beds have changed shape.
You can try a negative space manicure, which blends the artificial and natural nails together. You can also try filing your nails down every week or so to keep them at your desired length.
Soaking your nails in acetone will not damage your nail beds. However, filing the nail bed can cause damage, so be sure to only file the polish on top of your nail bed.
This varies from person to person, but gel nails typically last between 2 and 4 weeks.
It's recommended to get your gel nails redone every 2-4 weeks. However, some people may wait up to 6 weeks if there is no chipping, lifting, or cracking.
