Isla Bennett
Rubber gel nails are an innovative way to strengthen and add volume to natural nails. The rubber base is a type of gel with a thicker inhibition layer and greater elasticity than regular gel bases, allowing it to move with the natural flexibility of the nail. This makes it ideal for those with thin, weak, or bendy nails that are prone to breakage. The rubber base is applied as a strengthening layer under gel polish colour or on its own for a natural look. It is important to note that the rubber base is not used to extend nails but rather to reinforce and protect them. For longer, sturdier nails, a builder gel is a more suitable option.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To strengthen and extend nails |
| Consistency | Thick |
| Flexibility | More flexible than builder gel |
| Application | Easy and simple |
| Curing time | 30-60 seconds |
| Removal | No need to remove, just refill every 3 weeks |
| Nail type | Suits thin, weak, or flexible nails |
| Number of coats | One coat can be used |
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What You'll Learn
Rubber base vs builder gel
Rubber base coats and builder gels are two unique products in the world of nail care. Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the right product for your business and your nails.
Rubber Base Coats:
Despite the name, rubber base coats do not contain rubber. They are called so because of their adhesive and flexible nature. A base coat's primary function is to adhere to both the nail plate and the coating above it, and it is a common component in UV gel polish systems. Rubber base coats are specifically designed to be flexible. They work well with nails that are flexible, thin, or damaged, providing a less rigid coating that moves with the nail plate. This makes them ideal for these nail types but less effective for strong or dry nail plates, which can be rigid or brittle. Rubber base coats are also ideal for repairing cracks or breaks in natural nails. Its thick consistency allows it to act as a "patch" over the damaged area, creating a solid bond that can protect the nail as it grows out.
Builder Gels:
Builder gels differ from rubber base coats in their consistency and purpose. They are thicker and used for strengthening and extending nails. Builder gels harden and are less flexible compared to rubber bases, making them more suitable for creating longer, more durable nails. They are ideal for weak and brittle nails. However, the likelihood of the nail cracking or breaking is higher on impact. Builder gels are also formulated in different types of densities, from liquid, medium, to hard gel, and are applied using tips or with foil forms.
Which One to Choose:
The choice between a rubber base coat and a builder gel depends on your nail condition and the desired outcome. If you have weak, thin, or flexible nails that need protection and strengthening, the rubber base may be the best choice. However, if you want longer or more substantial, longer-lasting nails, the builder gel may be more suitable. Both products can also be used together for optimal results. For example, if you want long nails, you can use builder gel to lengthen them and then use a rubber base coat for a better finish.
Additional Tips:
- To determine the quality of a rubber base coat, try this simple test: apply a coat to a form, cure it, remove the sticky layer, and then peel it off. A good rubber base coat should bend without snapping, resist tearing, and stretch slightly.
- To maintain the health and longevity of your nails, apply cuticle oil daily to keep the nail bed and surrounding skin moisturized.
- Avoid using your nails as tools to prevent any leverage-induced breakage.
- Regular maintenance appointments (every 2-4 weeks) are also recommended to fill in any growth and check for lifting or damage.
- Both types of gel should be gently filed down to remove the top layer, then soaked in acetone for about 10-15 minutes.
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Applying rubber base coats
Rubber base gel is a great option for those with thin, flexible, or damaged nails. It is designed to provide a flexible, less rigid coating that moves with the nail plate. This type of base coat is ideal for those who want to repair cracks or breaks in their natural nails, as it acts as a "patch" over the damaged area, bonding and protecting the nail as it grows out.
To apply a rubber base coat, start by spraying your hands with a cleanser and gently massaging it in. Next, push back your cuticles and remove any shine from your nails using a buffer. Apply a thin, even layer of a product like Essential Base Coat to ensure proper bonding and adhesion for the subsequent layers. Cure your nails under a Dual Cure Lamp (LED for 30 seconds or UV for 2 minutes).
Now it's time to apply the rubber base gel. Choose a colour that suits your desired look and open the bottle. Brush the gel onto your nail plate, starting near the cuticle line and pulling the product forward towards the free edge. Be sure to leave a margin and apply a thin, even coat. Cure your nails again under the Dual Cure Lamp (LED for 60 seconds or UV for 2 minutes). Do not remove the tacky dispersion layer.
Apply a second thin coat of the rubber base gel, ensuring full coverage of the nail. Cure your nails for the third time under the Dual Cure Lamp (LED for 60 seconds or UV for 2 minutes). Again, do not remove the tacky dispersion layer. At this point, you have created a strong and flexible foundation for your nail art. You can now add polish or 3D embellishments to create your desired look.
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Applying builder gel
Preparation:
Firstly, shape your nails to your desired length and style. Push back and trim your cuticles to ensure a clean nail bed. Then, gently buff your nails to remove any shine and create a dull surface. This process helps the builder gel adhere better to your nails. Finally, cleanse your nails with a wipe to remove any dust or oils.
Base Coat:
Apply a thin layer of base coat to all your nails, ensuring you cap the ends. Avoid getting the base coat on your skin and cuticles. The base coat will help the builder gel stick to your nails and provide a strong foundation.
Curing:
Cure the base coat under an LED/UV lamp. The required curing time may vary depending on the product and lamp intensity, but it typically ranges from 30 to 120 seconds. The base coat may still feel tacky after curing, which is normal.
Builder Gel Application:
Attach nail forms to your nails and secure them in place. Using a nail extension brush, carefully apply the builder gel to the forms, extending your nails to your desired length. You can find builder gel in various densities, from liquid to hard gel.
Curing and Additional Coats:
Cure the builder gel under the LED/UV lamp for the recommended time, which is usually around 30 to 120 seconds. If needed, apply a second coat of builder gel and cure again. You can add more coats to achieve your desired thickness.
Cleaning and Shaping:
After curing, clean the nails with a lint-free wipe and isopropyl alcohol to remove any tackiness. Then, file your nails to perfect their shape and even out any areas that may be too thick.
Top Coat and Colour:
Wipe the nails clean and apply a top coat. If desired, you can add colour by painting on gel polish and curing it. Apply a second layer of the top coat, cure it, and then wipe your nails again.
Finishing Touches:
Once all the gel is applied and properly cured, your manicure is complete! Add a touch of cuticle oil to moisturise and nourish the nail bed.
Remember, proper preparation and application are key to achieving flawless and long-lasting results with builder gel.
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Removing rubber gel nails
Another way to remove rubber gel nails is by using acetone. First, file off the top coat, gel polish colour, and 80-90% of the gel product. Then, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to each cuticle and the surrounding skin to protect your skin from the acetone. Cut cotton balls or strips to the size of each nail and soak them in acetone. Place each piece of soaked cotton on the corresponding nail and wrap it with plastic food wrap to create a tight seal. Leave the plastic wrap on for about 10 minutes, then remove it and gently scrape off the dissolved product with a rosewood stick. Finally, remove any remaining residues with a gentle file or repeat the process with acetone. Wash your hands and apply cuticle oil to your cuticles and under your nails.
It is important to note that your nails may feel very soft right after removal, but this is normal, and they will harden and strengthen again within 24 hours.
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Rubber gel nail maintenance
Keep Nails Clean and Dry
Firstly, always keep your nails clean and dry. Water and chemicals are the enemies of gel nails, so when washing dishes or cleaning, be sure to wear gloves to protect your nails.
Moisturise Nails and Cuticles
Moisturising is key to maintaining the health of your nails and cuticles. Use a quality cuticle oil and hand cream regularly, focusing on the skin and cuticle area rather than the nail surface. This will help prevent your nails from becoming brittle and keep them smooth and hydrated.
Avoid Using Nails as Tools
It's important to treat your nails gently and avoid using them as tools. Don't use your nails to open cans, peel stickers, or scrape things open, as this can cause leverage-induced breakage. Be mindful of aggressive typing too!
Minimise Heat Exposure
Excessive heat can weaken the bond between the gel and your nail, so it's best to minimise heat exposure. When showering or doing the dishes, use warm or lukewarm water instead of hot water.
Regular Maintenance Appointments
To maintain the look and health of your rubber gel nails, regular maintenance appointments are recommended. Every 2-4 weeks, visit a professional to fill in any nail growth and check for any lifting or damage.
Removal Process
When it's time to remove your rubber gel nails, it's best to leave this to the professionals. Poor at-home removal can cause damage to your nails. The removal process involves gently filing down the top layer of gel and then soaking your nails in acetone for around 10-15 minutes.
Remember, rubber gel nail maintenance is not just about aesthetics but also about maintaining the health of your nails. By following these tips, you can keep your rubber gel nails looking sharp and feeling strong!
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Frequently asked questions
Rubber base coats are flexible and adhesive, working well with nails that are flexible, thin, or damaged. Builder gel, on the other hand, is used to strengthen and extend nails, but it hardens and can crack or break on impact.
First, prep your nails by dehydrating and priming them. Then, apply a thin coat of the rubber base, and use an electric nail file to shape them. Remove the dust with a lint-free wipe, and apply your gel polish. Finish with a top coat.
Both the rubber base and builder gel should be gently filed down to remove the top layer, then soaked in acetone for 10-15 minutes.
Most rubber base gels cure under a UV/LED lamp in 30 to 60 seconds.
Some popular products include Fzanest in Milky Pink, Born Pretty solid gel glue (also in Milky Pink), and V Beauty Pure's Rubber Base.
