Isla Bennett
There is some debate among nail enthusiasts about whether a UV base coat can be used as a substitute for UV glue when applying fake nails. Some people claim that the base gel works fine as a substitute for nail glue, while others argue that it may not be strong enough to hold the fake nail for long due to its runny consistency. Some users have reported that their nails started popping off around a week and a half after application. It is also important to note that using pre-painted press-ons can be dangerous as it can prevent the gel from curing properly, leading to potential allergic reactions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Base gel works as nail glue, but may not be strong enough to hold fake nails for long. |
| Durability | Fake nails glued with base gel may start popping off within a week and a half. |
| Consistency | Base gel is runnier than nail glue, which can lead to more cleanup and filing. |
| Nail Health | Base gel causes less damage to nails than nail glue when removed. |
| Allergies | Using pre-painted press-on nails with base gel can cause an allergic reaction due to improper curing. |
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What You'll Learn
Base gel as nail glue: does it work?
Using a base gel as nail glue is a method that some people have tried and tested. The process involves using a UV base gel in a very light layer after nail prep and cure, and then applying the UV nail glue before curing again.
Some people have reported that this method works well for them, with the fake nails adhering securely to their natural nails. One person commented that their nails "seem to be stuck on there really well + no lifting". Another person stated that they have used a base coat as UV glue and that it "worked alright".
However, it is important to note that the durability of this method may not be as long-lasting as using actual UV glue or polygel. One person shared that their nails started popping off at around one and a half weeks, which is sooner than their usual sets. Additionally, the runny consistency of base coats can result in more cleanup and filing, as more product gets under the nail and into the sidewalls.
It is also crucial to exercise caution when using pre-painted press-on nails. The colour can obstruct the light from penetrating the nails, leading to an incomplete cure and potentially triggering a gel allergy. Therefore, it is recommended to use clear tips to ensure proper curing and mitigate the risk of allergic reactions.
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Base gel vs nail glue: pros and cons
While some people have used base gel as nail glue, it is important to understand the differences between the two products and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Base gel is designed to bind gel polish to your nails, whereas nail glue is used to adhere a tip onto your nail. Base gel can be used as a base coat on real nails, followed by curing and the application of fake nails with the use of UV nail glue. However, it is worth noting that base gel tends to be runnier than nail glue, which can result in more cleanup and filing. Additionally, the runny consistency may not provide enough structure or strength for full cover tips, although it may be sufficient for half cover tips.
One of the main advantages of using base gel is that it causes less damage to nails when removing artificial nails, as opposed to nail glue, which often requires soaking for removal. Base gel also offers a more natural look, as it is thinner and less noticeable.
On the other hand, nail glue provides a stronger and more durable bond, making it ideal for long-lasting nail enhancements and extensions. It is available in two main types: brush-on nail glue and solid gel nail glue. Brush-on nail glue is convenient and easy to use, with a quick-drying time of seconds. However, it may not be as durable as solid gel nail glue, especially for heavy-duty use, and can become brittle and lead to breakage. Solid gel nail glue, on the other hand, offers superior strength and flexibility, making it perfect for long-lasting nail extensions and overlays. It is important to note that solid gel nail glue requires curing under a UV or LED lamp, which can add to the application time.
Ultimately, the choice between base gel and nail glue depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a more natural look and an easier removal process, base gel may be a better option. However, if you require long-lasting nail extensions or overlays, nail glue, particularly solid gel nail glue, would be the preferred choice.
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Application tips for using base gel as nail glue
If you're looking for an alternative to traditional nail glue, you can use base gel as an adhesive for fake nails, following a few simple steps. Firstly, ensure your natural nails are clean and free of any nail polish, dirt, or leftover glue. You can use an antibacterial soap and warm water to thoroughly clean your hands and nails. After cleaning, buff your nails gently to remove the shiny, oily top layer that can hinder the adhesion of the glue.
When using base gel as nail glue, it is recommended to apply a thin layer of the gel to your natural nails. This will act as a protective barrier and help the adhesive bond better to the nail plate. Allow the base gel to cure properly under a nail lamp, extending the curing time depending on the colour you plan to use - lighter colours require less curing time, while darker colours may need up to 4 minutes.
After curing the base gel, you can apply the solid nail glue gel to the nail tips and press the fake nails into place, ensuring there are no air bubbles. Again, cure the glue under a nail lamp, and you will have long-lasting nails with a stronger bond than traditional liquid glue.
While using base gel as nail glue is possible, it is important to note that it may not be as strong as dedicated nail glue, especially for full cover nails. Additionally, if you are using pre-painted press-on nails, the colour may prevent the light from curing the gel properly, which can lead to a gel allergy. For this reason, it is recommended to use clear tips to ensure proper curing.
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How long does base gel as nail glue last?
Using a base gel as nail glue can last for different lengths of time, depending on various factors. For example, the type of base gel used, the application method, and the user's lifestyle can all impact the longevity of the base gel as nail glue.
Some people have reported that using a base coat gel as nail glue can last for about a week and a half before starting to pop off. Others have shared that it can last about as long as regular nail glue, which is typically a few days to a week.
To make press-on nails last longer and prevent them from coming off easily, it is recommended to take care of the cuticles by pushing them back or removing excess skin. This ensures that the glue can bond directly to the nail bed. Additionally, avoiding excessive exposure to heat, moisture, and strong chemicals such as detergents and chlorine is crucial, as these conditions can weaken the nail glue. Activities like doing the dishes, gardening, cleaning, and swimming can impact the longevity of the base gel as nail glue.
The curing time for the base gel and nail glue is an important factor to consider. Proper curing ensures that the product dries completely and adheres firmly to the nails. The curing time depends on the colour of the product, with light colours requiring about 30 seconds to cure, neutral colours needing 3-5 minutes, and dark colours requiring 2-4 minutes. It is also important to use a nail lamp with sufficient power to cure the product effectively.
Overall, using a base gel as nail glue can be a viable option, but it may not last as long as dedicated nail glue, especially for full-cover nail tips. The longevity of the base gel as nail glue can be influenced by the user's lifestyle, application technique, and curing process.
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Allergic reactions to base gel as nail glue
Using base gel as nail glue can be a convenient hack, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved. While some people have used base gel as nail glue without any issues, others have reported allergic reactions.
One of the main concerns with using base gel as nail glue is the risk of an allergic reaction to the gel. The gel may not cure properly under a full-cover nail tip, which can lead to an allergic reaction. This reaction can occur even if you are using a UV base gel and curing it with a UV lamp, as the light may not be able to penetrate properly through the nail tip.
The chemical most commonly responsible for allergic reactions to nail enamel is tosylamide formaldehyde resin, which can cause allergic contact dermatitis. However, other chemicals in nail products, such as acrylates/methacrylates, can also cause allergic reactions, including irritant and allergic contact dermatitis. In rare cases, nail product allergies can even cause breathing problems.
To avoid an allergic reaction when using base gel as nail glue, it is important to ensure that the gel is fully cured and that you are using the correct UV lamp for the gel polish. You should also avoid getting the product on your skin, as the biggest risk of a reaction comes from exposure to uncured polish on the skin. If you are using pre-painted press-on nails, it is recommended to use clear tips only, as the colour can block the light from penetrating the nails, leaving the gel uncured and potentially causing an allergic reaction.
If you are concerned about an allergic reaction, you can also use liquid tape around the nail before applying the base gel as glue. It is always a good idea to do a patch test before trying a new product, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use base gel as nail glue. People have reported using a UV base gel in a very light layer as nail glue and it seems to work well. However, it might not be strong enough to hold a fake nail for long.
Fake nails glued with base gel start popping off around a week and a half.
Base coats are usually runny, which means more cleanup and filing. It also doesn't add a lot of structure or strength if you're using full-cover tips.
