Isla Bennett
Gel manicures can be a great way to get long-lasting, chip-free nails with a glossy finish. However, they can also cause nail brittleness, peeling and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. To keep your nails healthy, it's important to take care of them before, during, and after your gel manicure. This includes making sure your manicurist is using sterile tools, avoiding cutting your cuticles, and wearing sunscreen to protect your hands from UV radiation. After your manicure, it's crucial to keep your nails dry and clean, as moisture and dirt can weaken the gel. You should also avoid harsh chemicals and give your nails a break between applications. To remove your gel manicure, be patient and gentle, as rushing the process can damage your nails.
How to use nail protect gel:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application | Applied after a base coat, builder gel adds strength and thickness to your manicure, creating a hard, protective layer that decreases flexibility and supports nail growth. |
| Protection | Avoid using your nails as tools to open cans, remove staples, or peel labels. Wear gloves while cleaning or washing dishes to protect your nails from harsh chemicals that can weaken the polish. Avoid prolonged water exposure to prevent your nails from expanding and contracting, which can cause lifting. |
| Hydration | Apply cuticle oil and hydrating hand cream to keep your nails and cuticles nourished, helping to promote healthy nail growth. |
| Removal | Avoid picking, peeling, or using other nails or tools to remove the polish. Use a removal tool or orangewood cuticle stick to gently lift and remove the polish. If the polish isn't lifting off easily, allow for more soaking time. |
| Safety | Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. Always ensure your manicure tools are sterilized and disinfected to prevent infection. |
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What You'll Learn
Before your manicure, ensure your manicurist is using sterilised tools
Before your manicure, it is important to ensure that your manicurist is using sterilised tools. This is crucial, as it helps to prevent the spread of bacteria and infections. With the COVID-19 pandemic, sanitation and sterilisation of manicure tools have become even more important. While reputable salons have always prioritised sterilisation, it is still crucial to do your research and be vigilant.
- Check salon reviews: Before booking your manicure, take the time to research the salon's sterilisation practices. Read online reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Look for mentions of their sterilisation methods and cleanliness. This can give you insight into their commitment to hygiene and safety.
- Ask about sterilisation methods: When you arrive at the salon, don't hesitate to ask the manicurist about their sterilisation procedures. Reputable salons typically use an autoclave, a small machine that sterilises tools with high pressure, heat, and steam. Some salons may also use chemical disinfectants like Barbicide or hospital-grade disinfectants.
- Observe the manicurist's practices: Pay attention to how the manicurist handles their tools. Observe if they are cleaning and disinfecting the tools before your manicure. Make sure they are not using tools that appear dirty or unsterilised.
- Bring your own manicure kit: If you want to be extra cautious, consider purchasing your own high-quality manicure kit and bringing it with you to the salon. This ensures that you have complete control over the sterilisation of your tools, as they will only be used by you.
- Avoid sharing tools: It is important to never share your manicure tools with others, just like you wouldn't share a toothbrush. If you bring your own kit, make sure to keep it separate from the salon's tools to avoid any cross-contamination.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your manicurist is using sterilised tools and minimise the risk of any potential infections or bacteria transfer during your manicure. Remember, it is always worth investing in your health and safety, so don't be afraid to speak up and ask questions!
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Avoid getting gel polish on your skin or cuticles
To avoid getting gel polish on your skin or cuticles, it is important to be mindful of a few simple habits. Firstly, it is crucial to take your time and be meticulous when applying the gel polish. Avoid rushing the application process, as gel polish does not dry like regular nail polish. Work slowly and carefully, applying thin layers of polish one nail at a time. Start by swiping one side of the brush against the bottle to remove excess polish, then apply the polish from the middle of your nail, working towards the cuticle. Leave a small gap between the polish and your cuticle, as you don't need to apply the polish too close to the skin.
If you do get gel polish on your skin, use a Q-tip dipped in acetone to wipe away the excess and then redo that nail. You can also use a pointy silicone tool or an orange stick to clean up the edges and create a neat line. It is important to remove any gel polish from the skin, as curing gel polish on the skin can cause issues.
To further prevent gel polish from adhering to the skin, you can apply a coating of cuticle oil or petroleum jelly to the skin surrounding your nails. This creates a barrier that prevents the gel from sticking and makes it easier to slide off if needed. Alternatively, you can use nail shields or wrap adhesive tape around the skin to create a physical barrier. These methods are especially helpful if you tend to get gel polish on your skin easily or have small nail beds.
Remember, it is also important to care for your nails and cuticles by keeping them hydrated. Moisturize your cuticles regularly with cuticle oil or hand cream to prevent chips and breaks. Taking care of your nails and cuticles will help keep your gel manicure looking its best for longer.
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Use a gel base coat to reduce damage
Using a gel base coat underneath your gel polish might help reduce damage to your nails. However, it is not recommended to use a traditional nail strengthener under gel polish.
Before applying a gel base coat, ensure your nails are clean, dry, and free from any oils or residues. This will help the base coat adhere better and reduce the risk of damage. It is also important to use high-quality products, as cheaper or low-quality products may contain harsh chemicals that can weaken or damage your nails.
When it's time to remove your gel nails, it is important to do so properly to avoid damage. Avoid peeling or scraping off the gel polish, as this can cause nail damage. Instead, use a gentle nail polish remover and soak your nails before gently wiping off the polish. You can also soak cotton balls in acetone and apply them to your nails by wrapping small pieces of aluminum foil around your fingertips.
In between gel manicures, it is recommended to take a break from wearing nail polish for one to two weeks or longer. During this time, you can apply cuticle oil and hand cream to help repair your nails. Cuticle oils deliver vitamins and nourishment, while the cream will lock in moisture.
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Avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged water exposure
When it comes to nail care, it's important to be mindful of the products you use and their potential impact on your health. Here are some tips to avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged water exposure when using nail protect gel:
Firstly, it's crucial to understand that your nails can absorb water, and prolonged exposure can lead to weakening, peeling, and breakage. The nail is highly absorptive, and when it comes into contact with water, the nail cells expand and then contract, causing extra strain. To prevent this, keep your nails moisturized and limit water exposure. Wear gloves when doing household chores or use lotion or cream after swimming or water activities.
Next, be cautious of the chemicals in nail products. Some nail polishes contain harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, which can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and in some cases, cancer. Opt for non-toxic or "five-free" polishes that exclude these chemicals. Additionally, gel manicures involve curing under a lamp, which emits UV light, contributing to skin ageing and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Always apply sunscreen to your hands before a gel manicure for protection.
When removing nail polish, avoid using acetone-based removers as they can be harsh and damaging. Instead, opt for acetone-free, hydrating polish removers, and always follow proper removal procedures to avoid damaging your nails.
Finally, practice good nail hygiene and maintenance. Keep your nails short to reduce the surface area for water absorption. Moisturize your cuticles regularly with cuticle oil or hand cream, and be gentle with your nails. Avoid using them as tools to open cans or pick at things.
By following these tips, you can protect your nails from harsh chemicals and prolonged water exposure, ensuring their strength and health while enjoying your nail protect gel.
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Remove gel nails properly to avoid damage
Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands. Therefore, it is important to remove gel nails properly to avoid damage.
Firstly, do not pick or peel off your gel polish. Although it may be tempting to do so when the colour begins to come off, this can be damaging to your nails. Improper gel nail polish removal can lead to damaged nail beds, lifted and jagged edges, and brittle nails.
Instead, you can remove gel nail polish at home with a few simple steps. First, grab a fresh nail file and carefully file away the top coat seal. You will know you have removed enough of the top coat when the colour fades and the finish becomes dull. Next, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to each cuticle and the surrounding skin. This will help protect your skin from the acetone. Then, cut the cotton balls or strips to the size of each nail. Using cotton that is about the same size as each nail reduces your risk of getting acetone on your skin. Soak each piece of cotton in acetone and place it on top of the nail that it was cut to fit. You can also use foil instead of plastic wrap. Avoid wrapping your nails so tightly that you cut off your circulation.
After about 15 minutes, the nail polish should come right off. You can then use the remainder of the acetone from each cotton ball to wipe your nails clean. For any leftover polish, grab an orange stick and softly scrape away the gel towards the top of your finger. Finally, apply cuticle oil to rehydrate your cuticles.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a removal tool, such as the Gelous Removal Tool or Orangewood Cuticle Sticks, to gently lift and remove the polish. If the polish isn't lifting off easily, it needs more time to soak. Rushing the process can damage your nails.
To keep your nails healthy, it is recommended to use cuticle oil and hand cream. You can also apply a moisturising product, such as petroleum jelly, to your nails and cuticles several times daily to minimise brittleness and prevent chipping.
When washing dishes or cleaning, it is best to wear gloves to protect your nails from harsh chemicals that can weaken the polish. It is also important to avoid prolonged water exposure to prevent your nails from expanding and contracting, which can cause lifting.
Avoid using your nails as tools to open cans or remove staples, as this can cause unnecessary stress on your manicure. It is also important to keep your nails dry and clean, as moisture and dirt can weaken the gel.
Before getting a gel manicure, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your hands to prevent skin cancer and premature skin ageing.
