Liam Carter
Gel manicures are a popular choice for those wanting long-wear, high-shine nails. However, the removal process can cause damage, leaving nails weak and brittle. To avoid this, it's important to adopt a nail care routine that includes regular moisturising, daily filing, and the use of cuticle oil. When it comes to gel manicures, a base coat is essential to provide the perfect base layer for the gel polish. Hard gels are ideal for nail strengthening and can be used with or without a colour coat. Builder gels are another popular choice for those wanting longer nails, as they can be used with nail forms to sculpt medium to long nail extensions.
How to do strong gel nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail preparation | Ensure nails are short and free of previous gel or nail polish. File the nails and push back the cuticles. |
| Base coat | Apply a thin coat of a soft gel base, such as Kokoist Megastick Base Coat, to provide flexibility and enhance adhesion. |
| Builder gel | Apply a layer of builder gel, such as Kokoist builder gel, to add strength and protection. Cure the nails under a lamp. |
| Colour coat | Apply your chosen colour gel polish. Cure each hand under the lamp, ensuring thin layers are applied to facilitate proper drying. |
| Top coat | Finish with a top coat to seal and protect the manicure. |
| Nail care | Maintain nail strength by regularly applying cuticle oil and moisturising hands and nails. Avoid using nails as tools and protect them with gloves when working with chemicals or in cold temperatures. |
| Removal | Avoid picking or peeling off gel polish, as this can damage the nail plate and lead to thinning. Soak nails in acetone and use cotton pads and hot towels to safely remove the polish. |
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What You'll Learn
Using a base coat
There are various types of base coats available, and choosing the right one for your nails is essential. If your nails are super weak and bendy, opt for a soft gel base coat like the Kokoist Megastick Base Coat. This type of base coat is flexible and will move with your natural nail, providing strength and protection while also preventing lifting and chipping. On the other hand, if you're looking for something to add extra strength to your nails, Hard Gel is the way to go. It is slightly thicker than normal gel polish, and it can be used as a base coat to provide additional strength and protect your nails from breaking or snagging.
When applying your base coat, start by ensuring your nails are clean and dry. Then, apply a thin, even layer of your chosen base coat to each nail, being careful not to flood the cuticles. If you're using a UV or LED lamp, cure the base coat according to the manufacturer's instructions. It's important to note that the curing time may vary depending on the brand and type of gel you're using, so always read the directions beforehand.
After curing the base coat, you can move on to the next step in your gel nail routine, such as applying a colour coat or builder gel. Remember, taking care of your nails between manicures is also crucial for maintaining their strength. This includes moisturising your hands and nails, using cuticle oil, and keeping your nails short to reduce the risk of breakage.
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Removing gel polish safely
Prepare Your Nails and Work Area:
First, protect your work area by lining it with plastic wrap, as acetone can damage surfaces. Place a thick towel over the plastic wrap for added protection. When removing gel nail polish, it is easier to work on one hand at a time.
Soak Your Nails in Acetone:
Acetone is the most effective way to remove gel nail polish. Prepare a bowl filled with acetone and soak 10 cotton wool balls until they are saturated. You can also use cotton pads, which you can secure with nail clips or plastic food wrap/foil. If using plastic wrap or foil, wrap your fingertips snugly to hold the acetone-soaked cotton in place. Set a timer for 15 minutes to allow the acetone to dissolve the gel.
Remove the Gel Polish:
After 15 minutes, gently massage the foil or plastic wrap and pull it away from your nail. Most or all of the gel polish should come off with it. If there is any remaining gel polish, use a wet washcloth to gently rub it off. Ensure you only rub the nail and avoid the surrounding skin.
Wash and Moisturize:
Wash your hands with gentle, fragrance-free soap and water to remove any remaining acetone. Finally, gently rub petroleum jelly or cuticle oil into your cuticles and the skin around your nails to reduce any irritation caused by the acetone. Continue this moisturizing routine daily for the next seven days.
Alternative Method:
Another option for removing gel polish is to simply let your nails grow out. Clip them once a week to help remove the gel polish gradually and prevent your nails from catching on objects. This method is slow, taking about six months for fingernails and 12 to 18 months for toenails.
It is important to note that you should avoid picking, filing, or peeling off gel polish, as these methods can damage your nails.
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Applying gel polish
Prepare Your Nails
Start by preparing your nails. Ensure your nails are clean and dry. File your nails to your desired shape and length, focusing only on the new growth if you already have a previous gel manicure. Pushing back your cuticles is also a good idea at this stage.
Base Coat
Apply a base coat to your nails. This will provide the perfect base layer for the gel polish to adhere to. You can use a regular base coat or opt for a nail-strengthening base coat to add extra strength to your nails. Allow the base coat to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Hard Gel
Apply a coat of hard gel to your nails. Hard gel is slightly thicker than regular gel polish and adds strength to your nails. It can be used as a base for colour gel polish or on its own for a natural-looking manicure. If you plan to use a colour gel polish, apply one or two coats of hard gel, depending on your preference.
Colour Gel Polish
Choose your desired colour gel polish and apply it to your nails. You may need to apply multiple thin coats to achieve the desired opacity and colour saturation. Remember to cure your nails under an LED lamp after applying each coat, following the specific instructions for your chosen gel polish brand.
Top Coat
Once you are happy with the colour, finish off your manicure with a top coat. This will add shine and protect your gel polish manicure. Again, make sure to cure your nails under the LED lamp after applying the top coat.
Final Steps
After curing the top coat, buff over the nail to smooth out any imperfections. Then, wipe your nails with a cleanser to remove any residue. Enjoy your strong and beautiful gel nails!
Remember, it is important to take care of your nails between manicures. Moisturise your hands and nails regularly, and use cuticle oil to keep your cuticles and skin hydrated.
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Nail care routine
To achieve strong gel nails, it is important to establish a good nail care routine. Here is a detailed guide to help you get started:
Moisturize Your Nails
When applying hand cream or moisturizer, make sure to rub it onto your nails as well. This helps to keep your nails and the surrounding skin hydrated and healthy. Well-moisturized nails are less likely to become brittle and are more flexible, reducing the risk of breakage.
Use Cuticle Oil
Apply cuticle oil or cream to your cuticles and the skin surrounding your nails daily, especially when wearing nail polish. The polish can block the natural oils in your skin from being absorbed, so it is important to replenish these oils. Avoid applying cuticle oil directly to your nails, as this can affect the adhesion of the gel polish.
Protect Your Hands
When working with chemicals or cleaning agents, always wear gloves to protect your nails and hands. Additionally, try to minimize prolonged exposure to dry and cold temperatures, as these can cause nails to become brittle.
Daily Nail Care
It is important to practice good habits in your daily routine. This includes filing your nails regularly to maintain their shape and prevent snagging. Always file in one direction and avoid over-filing, especially before applying gel polish. Push your cuticles back gently, and resist any urge to pick, bite, or pull at your nails, as this can cause damage. Keep your nails relatively short, as very long nails are more prone to breakage.
Nail Strengtheners
If your nails are weak and prone to breakage, consider using nail-strengthening products. Hard gels can be applied as a base coat to provide extra strength and protection, allowing your natural nails to grow longer and stronger. You can also find color polishes that contain strengthening ingredients.
Safe Polish Removal
When removing gel polish, avoid picking or peeling it off, as this can cause significant damage to your nails. Instead, file the polish gently and then soak your nails in acetone using cotton pads and nail clips for easier removal. Alternatively, you can soak your nails in acetone and then gently push off the remaining polish with a cuticle pusher. Always moisturize your nails and cuticles after removal to replenish any lost oils.
Nail Health Supplements
In addition to your external nail care routine, you can also support your nail health from within. Include foods in your diet that are rich in nutrients known to promote nail health, such as biotin and collagen. You can also explore taking supplements specifically designed to support nail health and strength.
Remember, establishing a consistent nail care routine and adopting good habits will help you achieve and maintain strong, healthy gel nails.
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Gel nail maintenance
Keep Nails Clean and Dry: It is important to keep your gel nails away from water and chemicals as much as possible. When washing dishes or cleaning, wear gloves to protect your nails from harsh substances that can cause chipping, lifting, or even infections.
Moisturise and Hydrate: While avoiding water on your nails, ensure you moisturise and hydrate your cuticles. Apply a few drops of cuticle oil daily to prevent peeling and keep your nails and the surrounding skin hydrated. However, when applying lotion or oil, avoid the nail surface itself and only apply it to the surrounding skin and cuticle area.
Avoid Using Nails as Tools: Treat your nails gently and avoid using them as tools. Refrain from opening cans, peeling stickers, or scraping with your nails. Using your nails for such tasks can cause damage and weaken the gel's bond.
Minimise Heat and Sanitiser Exposure: Excessive heat, such as from hot water in showers or dishwashing, can weaken the gel's bond to your nail. Therefore, it is advisable to minimise exposure to hot water and steam. Additionally, keep hand sanitiser use to a minimum as it tends to dry out your nails and may cause lifting.
Proper Removal: One of the most critical aspects of gel nail maintenance is proper removal. The myth that gel damages nails is false; if removed carefully, there is no damage. When removing gel nail polish, do not pick, peel, or aggressively file the nail bed. Instead, soak a cotton ball in acetone until it is damp, and gently wipe away the polish. This will help prevent damage to the natural nail and protect its integrity.
Use a Base Coat: While some people find that applying Hard Gel without a base coat works for them, it is generally recommended to use a base coat before applying gel nail polish. The base coat provides the perfect base layer for all following coats to adhere to, resulting in stronger and longer-lasting gel nails.
Remember, maintaining gel nails is essential not only for aesthetic reasons but also for the health of your natural nails.
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Frequently asked questions
To make your gel nails stronger, you can add an extra coat of Hard Gel before the Top Coat. You can also use Hard Gel without a colour coat for a natural finish. For this look, simply apply Base Coat, 2 coats of Hard Gel and then your Top Coat.
To prevent your nails from breaking, it is recommended to keep your nails short and give them a chance to grow out stronger and healthier. You can also try to avoid using your nails as tools and apply cuticle oil or cream under your nails daily when wearing polish.
To remove gel nail polish without damaging your nails, it is recommended to avoid picking off the gel as it can harm the nail plate and cause thinning of the nails. Instead, you can file the polish and then soak your nails for about 15 minutes with acetone using cotton pads and nail clips.
