Liam Carter
Poly gel is a hybrid nail enhancement that combines the best qualities of acrylics and gel nails. It is known for its flexibility, durability, and ease of application. Poly gel is usually applied using a special brush and a slip solution, although alcohol can be used instead of slip solution. The gel is then cured under a UV or LED lamp and shaped as desired. The entire process, from preparation to curing, is similar to that of acrylic and gel nail installations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Description | Poly gel is a hybrid between hard gel and acrylic, retaining the advantages of both. |
| Application | Poly gel is applied using a brush and a slip solution. It is sculpted onto the nails and cured under a UV or LED lamp. |
| Removal | Poly gel nails can be removed by filing them down or soaking them off with acetone. |
| Durability | Poly gel nails are strong and durable, lasting for about 2-4 weeks depending on nail growth and care. |
| Weight | Poly gel nails are lightweight and comfortable. |
| Flexibility | Poly gel is flexible and can be easily shaped and sculpted to the desired length and design. |
| Safety | Poly gel is safe and does not damage natural nails when applied and removed correctly. It does not contain harsh chemicals or odours. |
| Cost | A full set of poly gel nails can cost between $50 to $150, and fills range from $45 to $80. |
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What You'll Learn
Slip solution
Poly Nail Gel is a hybrid nail enhancement that combines the best qualities of acrylic and gel nails. It is known for its flexibility, durability, and ease of application. The gel is typically applied using a special brush and a slip solution. The slip solution helps you shape the poly nail gel easily and flawlessly. It also helps to eliminate friction between the brush and the gel, preventing the gel from sticking to the nail brush, thus helping you achieve a smooth, trail-free shape.
To apply poly nail gel, you need to start by prepping your nails. Wash your hands and use a nail dehydrator to ensure there is no oil or lotion on your nails. Then, apply the base coat gel to protect your natural nails and improve adhesion. Cure it under a UV/LED lamp for 30 seconds to 1 minute. After this, take a small amount of gel out of the tube and apply it to the dual form. Using the brush and the slip solution, extend the width and length of the gel, ensuring that the gel is thickest in the middle of the form. Cure the surface for 1 minute and the underside for 30 seconds.
Once the gel is cured, gently remove the false nail by lifting a corner of the false nail tip and popping it off. After this, you can trim, shape, buff, and polish your nails as desired. Finish off with a top coat and cure it under a UV/LED lamp.
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Prepping nails
Prepping your nails is an important step in achieving a long-lasting manicure. Start by washing your hands and using a nail dehydrator to ensure there is no oil, lotion, or residue on your nails. You can also use an alcohol wipe to remove any impurities and oils. Next, trim your nails to the desired length and shape them with a nail file. It is important to gently clean the natural nails, remove any dead skin, and push back or trim the cuticles surrounding the nails. You can also use a nail buffer to ensure there is no shine on the nails. Additionally, filing the surface of the nails can create a rough surface for better adhesion. Once your nails are prepped, you can begin the process of applying the poly nail gel.
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Applying poly gel
Poly gel nails are a hybrid between hard gel and acrylic nails, combining the advantages of both. They are known for their flexibility, ease of application, and durability. The process and materials used for polygel nails manicures are unique. The polygel, which comes in a tube, is a mixture of acrylic powder and clear gel. It has a putty-like consistency and is easy to apply and shape, even for beginners.
- Preparation: Start by washing your hands and using a nail dehydrator to ensure there is no oil or lotion on your nails. Gently clean the natural nails, remove any dead skin, and push back or remove the cuticles surrounding the nails.
- Filing: File your nails to smooth out any ragged edges and create a smooth surface. This step helps enhance the lasting power of the poly gel.
- Base coat: Apply a base coat to your natural nails. This step is optional but helps protect your natural nails and enhances adhesion. Cure the base coat under a UV/LED lamp for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Dual forms: Choose the dual forms that match your nail size. These are optional, as you can also apply the poly gel directly to your natural nails. If using dual forms, apply the poly gel colour to the form, using alcohol or slip solution to spread it evenly. Ensure a thick layer of poly gel on the form before gently pressing it onto your natural nail.
- Sculpting: Using a designated gel sculpting brush, spread and sculpt the poly gel into the desired shape.
- Curing: Cure your nails under a UV or LED lamp for 60-90 seconds.
- Filing and shaping: File and shape your nails to your desired look. Buff the surface to smooth out any bumps or uneven areas.
- Top coat: Apply a thin layer of the top coat and cure it for 30 seconds to 1 minute under the lamp.
- Finishing: Cleanse the nail surface with a lint-free wipe and apply cuticle oil.
Poly gel nails can last up to three to four weeks, depending on your nail growth and care. They can be removed safely without damaging your natural nails by filing them down or soaking them off with acetone.
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Curing under UV/LED light
The curing process involves placing the nails under an LED or UV lamp for about 30 seconds to one minute. The gel will adhere to the nail where the base coat is applied, so it is important to apply it evenly. The curing time may vary depending on the colour of the gel. For example, if you use colours like white or darker colours, this might take longer to cure as the UV rays need to penetrate. The lower the UV watt lamp, the longer it will take to cure.
After curing, you can file your nails to smooth out any bumps or uneven areas. You can then apply a thin layer of top coat and cure it for a further 30 seconds to one minute. Finally, cleanse the nail surface with a lint-free wipe and apply cuticle oil.
Overall, the curing process is straightforward and similar to that of acrylic and gel nails. However, with poly gel nails, you have the added benefit of extra time to mould and shape the nails to your desired look before curing.
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Removing poly gel
Acetone Soak
Most types of nails, like gels and acrylics, can be removed with an acetone soak, and poly gel nails are no different. This process can be very effective and usually takes a few minutes. Cut and file your nails to avoid cracking or damaging the tips. Then, begin filing off the top layer of the poly gel, being careful not to file too deep. Soak a cotton ball in acetone, place it on your nail, and wrap your finger with foil to keep it in place. Let it sit for 20-40 minutes. Check the type of poly gel you are using, as some cannot be removed with acetone.
Filing
Poly gel nails can also be removed by filing them down. An e-file can be used to speed up the process, but be careful not to over-file your natural nails. File until the poly gel is very thin, and then soak and gently scrape off the remaining product.
Drill Machine
Another option for removing poly gel nails is to use a drill machine. This method can be effective, but it may be more likely to damage your natural nails if not done carefully.
It is important to note that improper removal of poly gel nails can cause damage, tearing, and microabrasions, leading to weak and thin nails. Always follow the proper procedures and use the correct tools to maintain nail health.
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Frequently asked questions
Poly nail gel is a hybrid formula that combines the durability of acrylic nails with the elasticity of gel nails. It is a nail enhancement made with acrylic powder and clear gel.
A slip solution is used with poly nail gel to help shape the gel easily.
Aside from the poly nail gel and slip solution, you will also need a nail file, buffer, and surface cleaner to prepare the cuticle, smooth and prep the nail, and shape the poly nail gel. You will also need a small brush to smooth the formula and spread it over the nail.
A poly nail gel manicure can last up to 21 days if applied properly. However, it is recommended to get a fill every two weeks.
Poly nail gel can be removed by filing it down or soaking it off with acetone. Soaking is a gentler method but may take longer.
