Noah Sinclair
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting long-lasting, chip-free nail polish. However, when gel nails begin to grow out, it can be frustrating if you can't get to a salon to have them removed or retouched. Nails typically grow between 0.7 and 1 millimetre per week, so you may start to notice a gap between your nail bed and the gel after the first week. By the second week, you may want to consider getting your manicure touched up. This article will explore some quick fixes for grown-out gel nails that you can do at home.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average nail growth rate | 0.7 to 1 millimeter per week or around 3.47 millimeters per month |
| Factors affecting nail growth rate | Age, hormone levels, and overall health |
| Gel manicure growth rate | Minimal in the first week (less than a millimeter) |
| Gel manicure touch-up | Required by the second week |
| Negative space manicure | Incorporates natural nail into the design, hiding the regrowth gap |
| Growth gap visibility | Harder to hide with gel color manicures |
| Growth gap styles | Ombre, negative space manicures, and French manicures |
| Filing gel nails | File in one direction, avoid sawing back and forth to prevent splits and tears |
| Nail health | Nails do not need to "breathe" as they are dead |
| Water exposure | Avoid soaking nails in water before a gel manicure |
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What You'll Learn
Negative space manicures
The negative space manicure is also a good choice for those who are new to nail art but want to try something more adventurous than a single-colour manicure. This style relies on colour block designs, dots, sparkly accents, and decals to create standout looks without the extra effort. Negative space manicures are also a good option for those who want to try gel nails but are worried about the removal process. As the natural nail is incorporated into the design, the gel polish can simply be grown out, and the regrowth will not be as noticeable as with a traditional gel manicure.
There are many different designs to choose from when it comes to negative space manicures. One option is to create an alternating French tip design, which is unique, modern, and can be used with any type of polish. Another idea is to create a celestial-themed manicure with holographic nail polish, rhinestones, and nail gems. For a more minimalist look, try pairing the plainness of your natural nail with some sparkle, such as a silver glitter manicure.
If you're feeling creative, you can even try a negative space manicure with animal print. This can be done by creating an almost maximised French tip or leaving a larger area for the half-moon shape at the base of the nail. A unique colour combination of stripes will ensure that this look is eye-catching. Negative space manicures are a great way to experiment with multiple nail shades at once, so don't be afraid to get creative and try out different designs!
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Filling in with regular polish
If you have a block colour, simply fill the gap with the same colour regular polish. For patterned nails, you can either extend the pattern onto your natural nail with regular polish or choose the most prominent colour and fill the gap with that. For a bolder look, you could fill the gap with a contrasting colour to create a statement design.
Glitter nail polish is a great option for regrowth filler as it is extremely adhesive and easy to apply, and its chunky, uneven application can easily hide any lumps and bumps. You can apply a fine line of glitter just above the cuticle to create a reverse French manicure effect, or bring the glitter higher up the nail for a reverse ombre look.
If you are repairing a chipped nail, first use a nail buffer to gently buff the entire nail to break the seal on the topcoat. Then, use a nail file to level off the chip's edges to create an even base for the new polish. Apply a base coat to the chipped area and ensure it is completely dry before moving on. Once dry, apply your regular polish in fine layers, making sure each layer is dry before applying the next to prevent air bubbles from forming. Finally, seal the nail by applying a top coat from the base to the tip, curing it under a lamp to protect the polish and add shine.
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Filing nails down
Filing your nails is a great way to keep them healthy and presentable. It's also an easy way to remove gel nails without damaging your natural nails. Here are some detailed tips on filing your nails:
Choosing the Right Nail File
Select a good-quality, gentle nail file with a suitable grit number for natural nails. A file with a grit of 180 or 240 is ideal, and these are often labelled as emery boards. Emery boards are perfect for natural nails as they are thin and have a fine grit.
Preparing Your Nails
Before you start filing, wash your hands with soap and warm water to remove any oil or debris that might interfere with the process. Spend at least 20 seconds cleansing your hands, paying extra attention to your nails and the area underneath them. Dry your hands thoroughly before filing.
Filing Technique
When filing your nails, it's important to use smooth, single strokes in one direction along the grain of your nail. Avoid using a back-and-forth sawing motion, as this can lead to splits and tears. File down the length of the nail, lifting the file away after each stroke. For rounded or pointed shapes, start with the outside edges and work your way towards the centre, creating a smooth and gradual curve. For stiletto nails, focus on filing the sides into straight lines that meet at the tip, then blunt the very end to prevent injuries.
Aftercare
Once you've finished filing, wipe your nails with a bit of alcohol on a lint-free towelette to remove any dust or debris. Follow this with a nourishing cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy and hydrated.
Safety Precautions
Be cautious not to file your nails past the tip of your finger, as this could cause injury to your finger or damage to the nail. Additionally, be mindful of filing only the gel polish and not the edge of your natural nail. Filing down the gel polish is safe, but filing the nail bed can lead to damage.
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Removing with acetone
Removing gel nails with acetone is a common method, and it does not damage your nails. However, there are several steps to be aware of to ensure safety and effectiveness. Firstly, it is important to roughen the gel manicure with a nail file or electric file; gently file the surface until it becomes completely matte. This crucial step ensures that the gel does not peel off prematurely.
Next, you will need to soak your nails in acetone. There are various ways to do this. One method is to soak cotton balls in acetone and then wrap them around your nails with aluminium foil. Alternatively, you can use an acetone bath, which involves soaking your nails directly in a bowl of acetone. Ensure that the acetone covers your entire nail, including the cuticles, to loosen the gel.
After soaking, the gel should be soft and ready for removal. Use a cuticle pusher to gently scrape off the gel from your nails. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this can damage your nails. If the gel is not coming off easily, soak your nails in acetone for a little longer. Once the gel is removed, wash your hands thoroughly to get rid of any remaining acetone.
It is important to note that acetone can be drying to the skin and nails. Therefore, it is recommended to apply cuticle oil or a nourishing hand cream after the removal process to rehydrate your nails and the surrounding skin. Additionally, avoid exposing your nails to water for an extended period, as this can cause further drying and potentially lead to brittle nails.
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Avoiding water exposure
While gel nails are made to be water-resistant, even in prolonged exposure to water, there are some steps you can take to avoid water exposure and limit potential damage to your gel nails.
Firstly, it is important to select high-quality gel nails and apply them correctly. Ensure that you use a UV nail lamp for enough time, so that the nails have a better chance to cure and are less likely to come off in the water. Keep all nails under the UV lamp for 60-90 seconds. You could ask a friend to help with the application to ensure it is done correctly.
Additionally, you can apply an extra top coat layer to provide even more protection. Before swimming, you can also apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to your hands to add a protective barrier. If you don't have any Vaseline, you can use a natural oil like avocado, jojoba, or coconut oil instead.
After swimming, be sure to rinse your hands and feet with fresh water to remove any chlorine or saltwater. Then, dry your nails thoroughly to help prevent weakening of the gel. It is also recommended to moisturize your nails with a nourishing cuticle oil or hand cream to keep them fresh and prevent dehydration.
Finally, remember that even with gel nails, there are limits to their durability. Avoid scraping or lifting the gel, as this could cause it to come off. Keep your nails as dry as possible to minimize the risk of damage.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, nails grow between 0.7 and 1 millimetre per week or around 3.47 millimetres per month. However, the rate of nail growth varies from person to person and is influenced by factors such as age, hormone levels, and overall health.
Negative space manicures, which incorporate the natural nail into the design, can help disguise the regrowth gap. Glitter nail polish can also be used to fill in the gap and hide any lumps or bumps.
Yes, filing your gel nails is a safe way to shorten them as long as you file in one direction and avoid touching the nail itself.
Avoid exposing your nails to water before applying gel, as this can cause the gel to loosen and lift. Properly buff the nails to create a rough surface for the gel to adhere to.
Try a reverse French manicure by using a thin brush to draw a curved line along the base of the cuticle, covering the bare growth. An ombre look with glitter can also help disguise the regrowth gap.
