Liam Carter
Gel nail polish has become increasingly popular in recent years, with its wide range of colours and finishes, quick-drying time, and ability to strengthen and protect natural nails. But what is it made of? Gel nail polish is formed of methacrylate compounds and photoinitiator compounds like benzoyl peroxide that don't dry but instead adhere to the nail when exposed to UV light. Plasticizers are added to give gel nail polish its strong but flexible nature.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Composition | Thicker, gel-like substance |
| Application | Cured under UV or LED light |
| Drying time | Quick |
| Durability | Long-lasting, hard, strong, and chip-resistant |
| Removal | Difficult to remove, requires prolonged soaking and dissolution of the polymer in acetone |
| Safety | Bi-weekly nail appointments that use UV nail lamps are generally considered safe |
| Ingredients | Methacrylate compounds, photoinitiator compounds like benzoyl peroxide, plasticizers, monomers, hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), di-HEMA trimethyl- hexyl dicarbamate, stabilizers, rheology modifiers, preservatives, solvents, and pigments |
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What You'll Learn
Gel nail polish ingredients
Gel nail polish has become a staple in the nail industry due to its wide range of colours and finishes, quick-drying time, and ability to strengthen and protect natural nails. It is more durable than regular nail polish and is less prone to chipping.
Gel nail polish is formed of methacrylate compounds, such as hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and photoinitiator compounds like benzoyl peroxide. Unlike regular nail polish, gel nail polish does not contain nitrocellulose and does not contain an entire polymer. Instead, it contains the building blocks of the polymer, such as methacrylates, in dissolved form. The photoinitiator compounds absorb ultraviolet light and split into radicals that kick-start polymerization, creating a stiff and shiny layer on the nail. Plasticizers are added to give gel nail polish its strong but flexible nature and prevent cracks in the glossy layer.
The process of applying gel nail polish involves using an ultraviolet (UV) lamp to create long polymer chains directly upon the nail. Each layer of gel polish is applied thinly to ensure even curing, and the nails are placed under a UV lamp after each layer is applied. The UV light activates the photoinitiators in the formula, causing them to break apart into free radicals that react with the monomers in the gel polish, triggering them to link together and form long polymer chains. This process, known as cross-linking, results in the hardening of the gel polish and creates a strong, durable coating on the nails.
In addition to the main ingredients, gel nail polish may also contain stabilizers, rheology modifiers, preservatives, solvents, and pigments. The pigments can be organic or inorganic substances that are used to colour the gel varnish.
It is important to note that gel nail polish contains certain chemicals that may be harmful. For example, Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA), an antioxidant found in some gel nail polishes, has cancer-causing agents. However, it is only toxic when ingested, and current research suggests that it is not dangerous when applied to nails.
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How to apply gel nail polish
Applying gel nail polish is not as daunting as it may seem. You can achieve salon-quality nails in no time in the comfort of your own home. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply gel nail polish:
Firstly, prepare your nails by using a nail file to shape them and remove any existing gel polish. Smooth the edges and file the surface to achieve your desired nail shape. Gently buff the entire nail surface to ensure it is smooth and even for easy gel polish application. It is important to ensure your nails are free of any oils, so use a lint-free wipe and some gel nail polish remover to clean the surface of your nails.
Next, apply a thin coat of base coat to your nails, capping the free edge. Leave a small gap between the gel nail polish and your cuticle. Cure your base coat for 60 seconds with a UV/LED gel nail lamp. The base coat should remain slightly sticky after curing so that the following layers adhere well.
Now, you can apply 2-3 thin coats of your chosen colour gel nail polish. After each coat, cure for 60 seconds with the UV/LED gel nail lamp.
Finally, apply a thin coat of top coat and cap the free edge. Cure for another 60 seconds with the UV/LED gel nail lamp. If you want to add some extra shine, you can add a thin coat of magnetic colour coat and cure for another 60 seconds.
There you have it! Salon-quality gel nails at home. Remember to always protect your skin from UV light exposure by wearing UV gel manicure gloves or applying sunscreen to your hands before starting the manicure.
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How to remove gel nail polish
Gel nail polish is formed of methacrylate compounds and photoinitiator compounds like benzoyl peroxide that don't dry but instead adhere to the nail when exposed to UV light. Plasticizers are added to gel nail polish to give it its strong but flexible nature.
There are two main methods to removing gel nail polish: the traditional method and with a gel nail polish remover. The traditional method involves using acetone, cotton balls, and foil. Acetone is an effective way to remove gel nail polish at home, but it can be harsh on the nails and skin. It is recommended to protect your work area with a cloth or plastic wrap to avoid stains and damage to surfaces. You can also use a nail file to buff your nails and remove the top layer of the gel polish before applying acetone.
For the traditional method, you will need acetone, cotton balls or pads, aluminum foil, a cuticle pusher, and a nail file. Cuticle oil and a nail buffer are extra but can help keep your nails healthy. Work on one hand at a time and use a coarse nail file to file down the gel top coat layer until it is no longer shiny and smooth. Then, place a thin layer of petroleum jelly on each cuticle and the surrounding skin to protect it from the acetone. Soak the cotton balls in acetone and place them on top of each nail, wrapping them with plastic food wrap or aluminum foil to create a tight seal. Leave this on for about 10 minutes, then remove the wrap and use a washcloth soaked in warm water to gently rub off any remaining polish.
Another option is to use a gel nail polish remover, which is faster and requires fewer tools. You simply apply a thick layer of the remover to your gel nails, wait 5 minutes, and then use a metal cuticle pusher or orangewood stick to gently push or remove the gel polish off each nail. Finish by cleaning your nails with a nail buffer.
If you are looking for a more natural method, you can let your nails grow out and clip them once a week to remove the gel nail polish. However, this is a slow process and can take about 6 months for fingernails and 12 to 18 months for toenails. It is important to resist the urge to pick or scrape off the polish, as this can damage your nails.
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History of gel nail polish
The history of manicures goes back several decades, but the real breakthrough in gel manicures happened relatively recently. The first nail varnish appeared in ancient China and was made of beeswax, gelatin, vegetable dyes, and gummi arabic. In the early 1980s, gel nail polish was introduced in the US as a longer-lasting and more durable alternative to traditional nail polish. However, due to its curing methods, it had limited success, causing many companies to pull their gel nail polish from the market. It wasn't until the end of the '90s that gel nail polish was reintroduced with better formulas designed to cure faster and safer.
Gel nail polish is formed of methacrylate compounds and photoinitiator compounds like benzoyl peroxide, which don't dry but adhere to the nail when exposed to UV light. Plasticizers are added to give gel nail polish its strong yet flexible nature. The curing process involves placing the gel polish under UV or LED light, which triggers polymerization and creates a hard, durable layer on the nails. This process typically takes less than a minute with the help of a special curing lamp, resulting in a manicure that is resistant to chipping and peeling.
The popularity of gel nail polish can be attributed to its ability to provide a long-lasting, low-maintenance manicure. With its wide range of colors and finishes, quick drying time, and ability to strengthen and protect natural nails, gel nail polish has become a staple in the nail industry and a popular choice for many consumers. Gel nail polish is also versatile and customizable, allowing individuals to change their look without committing to a full set of acrylic nails.
In 2010, an American brand patented an innovative invention called shellac, which combined the usual color coating with innovative components and application technology. Shellac offered longer-lasting results, and its name has since become synonymous with gel nail varnish, implying a long-term coating. The introduction of shellac further contributed to the popularity of gel nail polish, as it was the first mass-produced product of its kind to require the use of a special drying lamp.
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Gel nail polish alternatives
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting, glossy manicure. It is made up of methacrylate compounds and photoinitiator compounds, such as benzoyl peroxide, which cure under UV or LED light to create a hard, durable layer on nails. While gel nail polish is versatile and customisable, some people may seek alternatives due to concerns about potential nail damage, allergies, or the presence of harsh chemicals. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Non-UV Light Gel Polish
Some gel nail polishes do not require UV or LED light to cure, eliminating the potential risk of skin cancer and wrinkles associated with UV light exposure. These non-UV light gel polishes can provide a similar long-lasting, chip-resistant manicure without the need for light curing.
Regular Nail Polish
Regular nail polish is a traditional alternative to gel nail polish. It is typically made with nitrocellulose, which hardens through solvent evaporation. Regular nail polish offers a quick and easy manicure option, allowing for more frequent changes in nail colour and style. However, it may not be as durable as gel polish and can chip or peel more easily.
Hypoallergenic Nail Polish
Some people may experience allergic reactions to certain ingredients in gel nail polish, such as acrylates. Hypoallergenic nail polish brands like Bioseaweed Gel and West Coast Dips offer formulas free from common allergens, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. It is important to consult a doctor and undergo an allergy panel to identify specific allergens and choose nail polishes that are safe for your body.
Nail Art Stickers and Polish Strips
Nail art stickers, such as Jamberry, offer a healthy alternative to gel manicures by eliminating harsh chemicals and UV light exposure. They are easy to apply, come in a variety of fun designs, and can be a convenient option for those who want to avoid the time and cost of salon visits.
Vinylux Nail Polish
CND's Vinylux nail polish is a unique formula that combines the durability of gel nail polish with the ease of regular nail polish. It does not require curing under UV lights and can be applied and removed like regular nail polish, avoiding the need for harsh removal processes. While it may not last as long as traditional gel manicures, it offers a good balance between longevity and nail health.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel nail polish is made of a combination of methacrylate compounds, photoinitiator compounds like benzoyl peroxide, and plasticizers.
Methacrylates are a group of compounds that are used to maintain the desired consistency of gel-lacquers and provide the viscosity necessary for application to the working surface. They are also the building blocks of the polymer in gel nail polish.
Photoinitiators are compounds that absorb ultraviolet light and split into radicals that kick-start polymerization. Benzoyl peroxide and diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide are two commonly used photoinitiators.
Polymerization is a chemical process in which small molecules, called monomers, join together to form long chains, known as polymers. This process results in the hardening of the gel polish and creates a strong, durable coating on your nails.
Bi-weekly nail appointments that use UV nail lamps are generally considered safe, especially with more modern, energy-efficient options like LED lamps that utilize more violet light wavelengths. The level of UV radiation emitted by these lamps is relatively low, and exposure time is normally short, less than 5-10 minutes per service. However, it is important to note that gel nail polishes may contain potentially harmful chemicals like Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA), so it is always a good idea to check the ingredients and know which ones to avoid.
