Caleb Foster
Ohora's semi-cured gel nail strips are pre-shaped to fit your nail plate and are pre-cured to a 60% finish. This allows the nail strips to be moulded to your unique nail shape. The strips are made from real gel polish and are layered to last and be waterproof for up to two weeks without chipping. The curing time depends on the type of lamp used, with UV lamps taking around 120 seconds and LED lamps working more efficiently at 30 to 45 seconds. The number of curing times also depends on the user, with some recommending 2-4 times after applying the strip and 2-4 times after applying the top coat.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Curing Time | 2-4 times after applying the strip and 2-4 times after applying the top coat |
| Curing Time with UV Lamp | 120 seconds |
| Curing Time with LED Lamp | 30-45 seconds |
| Pros of UV Lamp | Safer, cheaper, works better with some products |
| Pros of LED Lamp | Faster curing time, longer lamp life |
| Application Time | 20-30 minutes with practice |
| Longevity | 11-14 days |
| Removal | Peel off or use acetone |
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What You'll Learn
Curing and filing
The curing process for Ohora nails involves placing your four fingers under a UV or LED lamp for 60 seconds, then doing the same for your thumb. Repeat this process until your nails are hard. The type of lamp you use will depend on the product you are using. UV lamps typically take around 120 seconds to cure, while LED lamps are more efficient and take about 30 to 45 seconds.
Once your nails are cured, you can file the edges until they are smooth. Filing after curing can help to improve the result of the filing, as the added rigidity of curing helps to create smooth edges with no tiny, tacky pieces left behind. It is important to note that some people prefer to file before curing, as they feel it further protects the tip of the nail.
If you are using Ohora gel nail strips, it is recommended to cure the stickers once, trim and file them, and then cure them two more times. Curing them before trimming can help to make them more solid and prevent them from moving around as you cut and file.
To remove Ohora nails, you can slowly and carefully peel the strips off. Using a drop of cuticle oil on each nail can help to facilitate the removal process. However, it is important to note that peeling off gel nails can take the top layer of your nail with it. An alternative method is to rough up the top layer, use acetone/cotton/foil, and then wipe the sticky under-layer beneath the polish.
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Pros and cons of UV and LED lamps
Ohora semi-cured gel nail strips require a UV lamp to cure them. The strips are made from real gel polish that is 60% cured and layered to last and be waterproof for up to two weeks without chipping. The curing process involves placing your four fingers under the lamp for 60 seconds, then doing the same for the thumb, and repeating as necessary until the nails are hard.
Now, here is a detailed overview of the pros and cons of UV and LED lamps:
UV Lamps
UV lamps work by emitting UV wavelengths to seal and harden photoinitiators in gel polishes. They are compatible with various gel polishes, providing many options, and they offer a longer curing time, allowing for a more leisurely manicure. These lamps are also relatively budget-friendly and versatile.
However, some users may perceive UV lamps as slower than LED lamps, as they typically take around two minutes to cure nails completely. They may also consume more energy and require bulb replacements every six months, leading to secondary costs. Additionally, not all gel polishes work seamlessly with every UV lamp, and specific compatibility requirements must be considered.
LED Lamps
LED lamps have gained popularity for their efficiency and quick curing times. They shine brightly and dry nails much faster than standard UV lamps, with an average curing time of 30 seconds. This significantly reduces the overall manicure duration. LED lamps also have a longer bulb life, lasting up to 50,000 hours, so you won't need to worry about frequent bulb replacements.
On the other hand, LED lamps are more expensive upfront, and they may have limitations in gel polish compatibility, offering a narrower range compared to UV lamps.
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Application process
The application process for Ohora semi-cured gel nail strips is relatively simple and can be done at home. The brand promises an easy, long-lasting application that rivals a traditional gel manicure. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to apply Ohora nails:
Preparation:
Firstly, you need to prepare your nails. This includes soaking and trimming excess dead skin, pushing back the cuticles, and using a prep pad to ensure your nails are completely clean and dry before application. Nailbeds are naturally oily, so it is important to use a nail dehydrator to remove excess oils from your nail beds to ensure proper adhesion of the strip.
Application:
Once your nails are prepared, you can begin applying the strips. Ohora nail strips are pre-shaped to fit your nail plate and are pre-cured to a 60% finish, allowing them to mould to your unique nail shape. Choose the right size strip for your nail, press it on, and cut off any excess.
Curing:
After applying the strips, it is time to cure them. You can use either a UV or LED lamp for this process. UV lamps typically take around 120 seconds to cure, while LED lamps are faster, taking only 30-45 seconds. Place your four fingers under the lamp for 60 seconds, then do the same for your thumb. Repeat this process until the nails are hard. It is recommended to cure 2-4 times after applying the strip and again 2-4 times after applying the top coat.
Filing:
After curing, you can file the edges of your nails until they are smooth. Some people prefer to file before curing, as they feel it helps to further protect the tip of the nail. However, others find that filing after curing results in smoother edges with no tiny, tacky pieces left behind. Try both ways and see what works best for you.
Top Coat:
Finally, apply a top coat to help seal down the edges and add shine. Ohora sells top coats, but it is not necessary to use their specific products.
The entire application process may take around 20-30 minutes once you get the hang of it. With proper application and curing, your Ohora nails can last for up to two weeks without chipping.
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Removal process
Ohora gel nail strips can be peeled off slowly and carefully. This method minimises damage to the nails. You can also use a drop of cuticle oil on each nail to help with the removal process.
If you are switching to another brand, you can try roughing up the top layer of the Ohora strips, and then use acetone, cotton, and foil to remove them. This brand's strips have a sticky under-layer that can be challenging to get off.
Some users have also reported that they were able to remove the strips by washing dishes with super hot, soapy water. However, this method is not recommended as it may not work for everyone and may damage your nails. A safer alternative is to use acetone-soaked pads.
To avoid issues with removal, it is important to properly apply the nail strips. Ensure that your nails are prepped by soaking and trimming excess dead skin, pushing back the cuticles, and cleaning your nails with a prep pad. When applying the strips, press down firmly with an orange stick or the rubber end of the Ohora Pro Easy Dual Stick to ensure the strips are securely attached. Use a top coat to seal the edges.
Additionally, you can try using a nail dehydrator product to remove excess oils from your nail beds before application. Leaving a tiny gap at the cuticle and ensuring the strip doesn't touch the skin on the sides can also help prevent issues.
Finally, you can try adding more cure time to each curing step. The recommended cure time is 2-4 times after applying the strip and 2-4 times after the top coat, but you can adjust as needed.
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Comparison to other brands
Ohora nails are semi-cured gel nail strips that are claimed to be more effective than other brands of nail stickers. The strips are made from real gel polish that is 60% cured and layered to last and be waterproof for up to two weeks without chipping. They are also flexible and stretchy, allowing them to be adjusted to fit different nail sizes.
In comparison to other brands, Ohora nails have been described as feeling more natural and sturdy. One user has noted that they prefer Ohora nails over Dashing Diva, as the latter is less sturdy. Another user has mentioned that they have had success with other brands of semi-cured gel nail strips, but that Ohora nails are worth trying, especially for special occasions.
The application process for Ohora nails is also said to be easier than that of other brands. The strips can be applied without the need for filing or soaking, and they can be easily removed with just nail polish remover and the included wooden stick. Other brands, such as Dashing Diva, offer similar products with starter kits that include a UV lamp, which is required for curing Ohora nails but not included in their kits.
While Ohora nails offer a convenient and effective solution for at-home manicures, it is worth noting that their normal kits do not include everything needed for a complete manicure. In addition to the UV lamp, users may need to purchase separate tools for customising the strips, such as scissors or cuticle scissors. However, Ohora does provide a free lamp with the first purchase, and their strips are reported to fit well without the need for custom cutting, which can be a common issue with other brands.
Overall, Ohora nails seem to be a good choice for those seeking a long-lasting, salon-quality manicure at home. They offer convenience, ease of application, and a sturdy and natural feel that compares favourably to other brands of nail strips and stickers.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes 60 seconds to cure each of the four fingers and then an additional 60 seconds for the thumb. Repeat if necessary until the nails are hard.
Cure your nails 1-3 times. Some people cure their nails once, trim and file them, and then cure them the remaining two times.
You can use either a UV or LED lamp to cure Ohora nails. UV lamps take around 120 seconds to cure, while LED lamps are more efficient at about 30-45 seconds.
Cured Ohora nails can last for up to two weeks without chipping.
