Liam Carter
There are several alternatives to gel nails, including dip powder nails, press-on nails, and polygel nails. Polygel nails, in particular, have gone viral as a hot new manicure technique. This method is a hybrid of gel and acrylic manicures, resulting in stronger and more flexible nails that are less prone to chipping or breaking. Plexigel is another innovative technique that offers the application and wear of a gel manicure with the look of extensions. It can change the shape of your nail, lengthen it, or add plumpness.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Polygel Nails, Plexigel |
| Type | Hybrid formula |
| Composition | Acrylic powder and clear gel powder |
| Durability | More durable than traditional nail polish |
| Longevity | Lasts up to two weeks or longer |
| Maintenance | Requires maintenance by filling in the area of growth |
| Application | Best applied at a salon, simple application process as the gel is premixed |
| Removal | Easy and non-damaging to the nails |
| Safety | Does not require UV light, reducing risk of skin damage |
| Customization | Can be customized with nail art before the top coat is applied |
| Flexibility | More flexible than acrylic nails, less likely to chip or break |
| Strength | Stronger than gel nails |
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Dip powder nails
The process of applying dip powder nails is simple. First, you or your nail technician will brush your natural or fake nails with glue, then dip them into (or sprinkle on) a coloured acrylic powder. The excess powder is then shaken off, and an activating top coat is added to harden the powder. This process is usually repeated a couple of times to make sure each nail is fully covered in the desired colour. Finally, you can file and shape your nails as usual.
One of the main benefits of dip powder nails is that they tend to be more durable and long-lasting than traditional acrylic nails. Because the powder is already mixed with the liquid solution, the resulting nail is stronger and less likely to chip or break. Dip powder nails can last up to two to four weeks, depending on the individual's nail growth and activities.
Another advantage of dip powder nails is that they don't require curing with UV lights, which can be a health benefit. Your nails still dry in minutes, and you're left with a dry set of nails that won't get ruined anytime soon.
However, it's important to note that dip powder manicures can be more unsanitary because of how they're applied and may even weaken your nail base. The process of removing dip powder nails can also be time-consuming and labour-intensive, so it's recommended to visit a professional nail salon for this service.
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Press-on nails
To apply press-on nails, start by preparing your natural nails. Soak your nails in warm water for a few minutes to soften the cuticles, then push them back using a cuticle-pushing stick. Next, clip your cuticles and cut or file your nails to the desired size and shape. After that, swipe on some nail polish remover to clear off any additional oils left on your nail beds.
Once your natural nails are prepared, you can select the press-on nails that best match your nail shape. If you're using glue-on nails, apply a thin layer of adhesive to the nail, then align the press-on with your natural nail, starting from the cuticle and pressing down toward the tip. Quickly remove any excess glue with a cotton swab or nail brush, then press down on the nail and hold it in place. If you're using peel-and-stick press-ons, simply peel off the adhesive backing, stick it on your nail, and press it down for 30 seconds.
After applying your press-on nails, try to keep your hands dry for about an hour to ensure the adhesive can fully cure and set. With proper application and care, press-on nails can last up to a week for peel-and-stick varieties and up to two weeks for glue-on varieties. To extend the wear of your press-on nails, consider using rubber gloves when doing dishes or other activities that may cause the glue to loosen.
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Polygel nails
The application process for Polygel nails is similar to that of gel nails. First, the nail technician will prep your natural nails by ensuring they are free of polish and pushing back, filing, and buffing the cuticles so that there is no shine. Then, they will apply a base coat of gel and cure it under a UV or LED lamp.
The next step is to apply the Polygel. Using a brush moistened with a special solution, the technician will smooth the product over your entire nail, shaping it as desired. The Polygel will not set until it is cured, so the technician can take their time creating the desired look. Once the Polygel is in place, you will place your nails under the lamp for about 30 seconds to cure the product. Depending on the style, you can repeat these steps to add another colour to your nails, such as a white tip.
Finally, the technician will apply a top coat to seal in the Polygel and add your preferred finish, such as shiny or matte. Your nails will go under the lamp one more time to cure and set the manicure.
One of the benefits of Polygel nails is their longevity. With proper care and application, a Polygel manicure can last up to three weeks. Additionally, Polygel nails do not damage your natural nails if applied and removed correctly. To remove Polygel nails, a nail technician will file the product from your nails to remove the bulk of it.
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Gel-X nail manicures
Gel-X manicures are a type of soft gel nail extension invented by Aprés Nail in 2017. They are applied with Extend Gel (no glue) on the natural nail and filed down to the desired shape. The application process is quick and easy as the extensions are pre-formed to the preferred length and shape.
Eunice Park, a licensed nail technician and the research and development manager of Aprés Nail, explains that the patented soft gel formula involves applying a lot of heat and pressure during the manufacturing process, which chemically alters the gel into something 10 times stronger and harder than in its liquid state. This allows the extensions to be long-lasting, strong, and durable, while still being easily removable using acetone.
A Gel-X manicure can last anywhere from two to four weeks, or even up to a month, depending on how quickly your nails grow and your tolerance for growth at the cuticle. The longevity of the manicure also depends on the proper prep, application, and care. For the best results, it is recommended to visit a salon and get the extensions done by a licensed nail technician.
The process starts with prepping the natural nails by applying a layer of the Aprés Nail pH Bonder to dehydrate the nail plate and remove any oil or residue. This is followed by the application of the Acid-Free Gel Primer to create a tacky layer for the gel to adhere to. The Extend Gel is then applied thinly to the natural nail, after which the nails are cured for 30 seconds in an LED lamp. The Gel-X tip is etched on the underside to allow for a better grip, and then placed onto the nail at a 45-degree angle and flash-cured.
Gel-X manicures are a great alternative to acrylic nails, especially for those sensitive to fragrances, as they do not have the strong scent associated with the acrylic manicure process. They are also more comfortable to wear than acid-based primers, which can cause nail sensitivity or soreness.
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Plexigel
One of the key advantages of Plexigel is its versatility. It can be used to create longer nails or to add strength and protection to natural nails. The formula is buildable, allowing for customizable length and making it easy to sculpt long nails. Plexigel also has a thinner viscosity than traditional gel systems, which means it can be easily sculpted and customized.
The application process for Plexigel is streamlined and relatively simple. After manicuring the nails, they are prepped with 99% isopropyl alcohol. The Plexigel Bonder is then cured under a CND lamp for 10 seconds, followed by each layer or bead of Plexigel for 60 seconds. Plexigel typically lasts for around three weeks and can be removed gently without damaging the natural nail.
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Frequently asked questions
Polygel nails are a new technique that combines the benefits of gel and acrylic manicures. They are stronger than gel nails and more flexible than acrylic nails, making them less likely to chip or break.
Polygel nails can last longer than gel nails, with some sources saying they can last up to two weeks or more.
Polygel nails are less likely to chip or break than gel nails. They are also more flexible, which makes them easier to maintain.
The polygel nail is pressed down onto the natural nail and cured under a light. The plastic tip is then removed, and the nail is filed if needed. A layer of gel top coat is then applied, and nail art can be added at this stage.
Yes, there are a few other options that are gaining popularity, such as Plexigel, which is a hybrid formula that combines the application and wear of a gel manicure with the look of extensions. Another option is Gel-X, which is a full-coverage soft gel extension service that provides long-lasting and durable extensions.
