Sophia Delgado
Structured gel manicures are a rising trend in the beauty industry. They are known to be long-lasting and durable, making them ideal for those with busy lifestyles or those who are hard on their nails. Unlike standard gel manicures, structured gel manicures use a thicker viscosity builder gel beneath the coating of gel polish to create a long-lasting and super-durable nail enhancement. This process is similar to adding fillers to your lips, as the gel plumps up the nails, making them look fuller and stronger. While structured gel manicures can be beneficial for all nail types, especially nail biters or those trying to grow out damaged nails, there are some concerns about the potential damage caused by the removal process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Removal | Soft gel is removed by the soaking method. Hard gel can only be removed with an e-file or buffer. |
| Application | A structured gel manicure uses a builder gel product to create a long-lasting and durable nail enhancement. |
| Results | Structured gel manicures are beneficial for all nail types, especially nail biters or those trying to grow out damaged nails. |
| Cost | The cost can be prohibitive, as is the time spent on removal and reapplication. |
| UV Exposure | If you're looking to avoid UV exposure and nail lamps, this might not be a service for you. |
| Longevity | Structured gel manicures are super fitting for people with busy lifestyles since they tend to last longer than acrylic nails and gel powder manicures. |
| Flexibility | Structured gel is more flexible than acrylic, which makes it less prone to breaking. |
| Fumes | Structured gel does not have the harsh fumes associated with acrylic. |
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What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of structured gel manicures
Structured gel manicures are an advanced nail technique that uses a thicker viscosity builder gel to sculpt, shape, and extend the nail. This type of manicure is meant to reinforce your natural nail with a supportive layer of rubber-based gel to protect your nails from breakage.
Pros
Structured gel manicures offer a long-wearing manicure with a high-gloss finish that can last up to three to six weeks. The thicker consistency of the gel provides more durability and strength to the natural nail, preventing it from peeling or lifting. It also helps to mend broken free edges, conceal ridges and discolouration, and can be used to add length to the nail. This type of manicure is ideal for those with busy lifestyles, as it requires less maintenance than traditional nail polish or regular gel manicures. It is also a good option for nail biters or those trying to grow out damaged nails, as it provides a protective layer over the natural nail.
Cons
One of the main downsides of structured gel manicures is the time and cost involved. The application process can take at least two and a half hours, and the cost can be higher than regular gel manicures due to the additional time and expertise required. Structured gel manicures also require professional removal to avoid potential damage to the nails, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, the use of UV or LED light during the curing process may be a concern for those looking to avoid UV exposure.
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Removal methods for structured gel nails
Structured gel manicures are a great way to strengthen and support weak and brittle nails. The process involves applying a thicker viscosity builder gel beneath the coating of gel polish to create a long-lasting and durable nail enhancement.
There are a few methods to remove structured gel nails, and the best method depends on the type of gel that was used. Soft gel is generally more suitable for those looking to enhance the look and feel of their natural nails, whereas hard gel is used for more extreme nail makeovers, such as nail reconstruction and extreme lengths and shapes.
Soft gel can be removed by soaking the nails in acetone. This method is often preferred as it is less damaging to the nails. To do this, you can wrap your fingers in acetone-soaked cotton balls and plastic food wrap, ensuring a tight seal. Leave this on for around 10 minutes, then remove the wrap. Most or all of the gel polish should come off with the wrap, and any remaining polish can be gently rubbed off with a warm, wet washcloth.
Hard gel, on the other hand, usually requires filing or buffing to remove the gel. This method can be more damaging to the nails, as filing can weaken the nails and cause potential damage.
Another option for removing gel nails is to simply let your nails grow out and clip them once the gel is no longer covering most of the nail. This method is the least damaging to the nails but can take a long time, as fingernails take about six months to grow out.
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Structured gel nails vs. acrylic nails
Structured gel manicures are an advanced nail technique that uses a builder gel product to create long-lasting and durable nail enhancements. The builder gel is thicker than other gel-based products and allows for sculpting, shaping, and extending the nail as desired. This type of manicure is perfect for those who struggle with nail-biting or cuticle-picking habits as it helps nails grow by supporting, reinforcing, and strengthening them. It also acts as a protective layer over the natural nail.
On the other hand, acrylic nails are created using a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer, forming a hard protective layer over the natural nails. Acrylics are a popular and time-tested option for enhancing nails, especially for those seeking strong, durable, and long-lasting extensions. They can withstand wear and tear, making them ideal for those with hands-on jobs or lifestyles.
One of the main differences between structured gel and acrylic manicures is their appearance. Structured gel manicures tend to look more natural, while acrylics can appear less natural if not applied by a skilled technician. Acrylic nails can sometimes feel thicker and heavier, depending on the chosen design. Additionally, structured gel manicures are known to be more flexible, resulting in a lighter and more comfortable feel. However, this also means they are not as strong as acrylics and are more prone to chipping with frequent hand use.
In terms of application and removal, structured gel manicures are generally more time-consuming due to the curing process, which requires a UV or LED light. Acrylic nails, on the other hand, cure through air-drying once the two ingredients are mixed. Removing structured gel manicures can be done through the soaking method for soft gel and with an e-file or buffer for hard gel. Acrylic nails are typically removed using an acetone soak, which involves clipping, filing, and buffering the nails before applying acetone-soaked cotton balls and wrapping them in aluminium foil.
While both structured gel and acrylic manicures offer stunning and long-lasting results, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Structured gel manicures are ideal for those seeking a lighter, more natural look, flexibility, and durability. In contrast, acrylic nails are perfect for those who require strong, long-lasting nails and are less concerned about the thickness or heaviness of the enhancement.
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Structured gel nails for nail biters
Structured gel manicures are an advanced nail technique that can be a great option for nail biters. This procedure helps restore nails, freeing them from hangnails and jagged edges that make nail-biting more tempting. The manicure involves layering a builder gel and regular gel. The builder gel coating underneath acts as an additional protective layer that supports and reinforces the natural nails.
The builder gel used in structured gel manicures is thicker than other gel-based products and allows for sculpting, shaping, and extending the nail as desired. It can be applied over the natural nail to make them look plumper and longer-wearing. It can also be used to add length by applying the gel over a plastic nail tip, creating a gel extension.
According to celebrity nail stylist Julie Kandalec, structured gel manicures are beneficial for all nail types, especially nail biters or those trying to grow out damaged nails. She explains that having any enhancement on for a longer period can help the hyponychium (the skin under the free edge) reattach itself after it's been torn or bitten too much. New York City-based nail stylist Gina Edwards adds that structured gel manicures can also help align crooked nails.
While structured gel manicures can be a great option for nail biters, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, they tend to be more expensive than traditional polish or gel services due to the application time and increased durability. Secondly, they need to be professionally removed to avoid potential damage to the nails. This can be time-consuming and costly, as it requires a visit to the salon. Finally, if you're looking to avoid UV exposure and nail lamps, this may not be the right service for you.
Overall, structured gel manicures can be a great option for nail biters, providing a protective layer that supports nail growth and helps restore nails to their former glory.
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Application process for structured gel nails
A structured gel manicure is a great option for those who want to add strength and support to their weak and brittle nails. The process of applying a structured gel manicure is quite intricate and is best left to professionals.
Firstly, your manicurist will perform a dry manicure, which involves filing off the white part of the cuticle attached to the nail plate. This is an important step as it allows the gel base to adhere properly to the nail. Following this, your manicurist will use a cuticle scissor or nipper to gently remove any remaining dry bits of the cuticle.
Once the cuticles are set, your nails will be filed into the desired shape. After this, the rubber gel base is placed on the nail. This part is crucial to the structured nail process as it involves flipping the nail over to let the gravity of the gel fall where the natural apex would be. The apex, or the dome of the nail, is the strongest part of the nail, and this step helps to reinforce the nail's strength.
The next step involves applying the gel. A structured gel manicure uses a builder gel product, which is thicker in viscosity than other gel-based products. This gel is applied over your natural nails to give them a plumper appearance and create a long-wearing manicure. You can also use structured gel to add length to your nails by applying it over a plastic nail tip, creating a gel extension.
The application of structured gel nails is a detailed process that requires time and expertise. It is important to choose a manicurist who is experienced in this technique to ensure the best results and maintain nail health.
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Frequently asked questions
No, structured gel manicures are intended to stay on the nails and be filled or rebalanced rather than be completely removed during each nail session, reducing the potential for nail damage and thinning of the nails from repeated filing and buffing during nail preparation and removals.
Structured gel manicures use a builder gel product to create a long-lasting and durable nail enhancement. The builder gel is thicker than other gel-based products and allows sculpting, shaping, and extending of the nail as desired.
Removing a structured gel manicure depends on the type of gel used. Soft gel is removed by the soaking method, while hard gel can only be removed with an e-file or buffer.
Structured gel manicures are beneficial for all nail types, especially nail biters or those trying to grow out damaged nails. The protective layer helps the hyponychium (the skin under the free edge) reattach itself after it's been torn or bitten too much.
