Ava Monroe
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many changes in our lives, and that includes how we take care of our nails. With nail salons closed during lockdowns, many people had to learn how to do their own gel nails at home. This posed some challenges, as gel nails often require UV lamps and drills for removal, which can be damaging to nails and even cause premature ageing of the hands. Additionally, the pandemic has brought attention to the phenomenon of COVID nails, where people experience nail changes such as horizontal grooves or discolouration after recovering from a COVID-19 infection. As such, it is important to consider the safety measures in place when visiting a nail salon during the pandemic and to be mindful of the potential risks associated with certain nail services and products.
Characteristics and Values Table for Gel Nails During COVID-19
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gel nail products | Masura, Sensational, Impulss, Alessandro striplac, OPI Gel Color, Chillhouse Forever Wear |
| Gel nail tools | Essence LED lamp, gel top coat, acetone, tin foil wraps, nail strengthener, cuticle oil |
| Safety measures for nail salons | Research safety protocols, opt for services minimizing close contact, wear a mask, bring your own tools, schedule appointments during off-peak hours |
| Nail salons' safety protocols | Mandatory mask-wearing, enhanced cleaning, disinfection, social distancing, use of personal protective equipment (PPE) |
| COVID nails | Nail changes after COVID-19 infection, Beau's lines, horizontal grooves, red/purple skin discoloration, brittle nails |
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What You'll Learn
Tips for gel nails at home
Doing gel nails at home can be a fun and enjoyable experience, and it can also save you a significant amount of money. Here are some tips to help you achieve salon-quality gel nails in the comfort of your own home:
Choose the right products and equipment:
Invest in a good-quality at-home gel manicure kit that includes all the necessary supplies for applying and removing gel polish. Make sure to get a nail file, either an emery board or a glass/crystal file, for shaping and prepping your nails. A nail buffer is also crucial for smoothing and evening out your nail surface. You will also need a UV lamp or LED curing lamp to cure the gel polish, with the latter being preferable as it emits less UV light and dries the polish quicker.
Prepare your nails:
Before applying gel polish, make sure your nails are properly dehydrated. Use lint-free wipes instead of cotton wool to avoid any fluff or fibres getting tangled in your gel polish brush. Cut your nails straight across, avoiding rounding the edges, as this can cause ingrown nails.
Apply the gel polish correctly:
Remember that less is more when it comes to gel nail polish. It is better to apply multiple thin layers than fewer thick layers. Be sure to cap the free edge by painting all the way to the edge of the nail and even slightly under with your base and topcoat, as well as your colour. This prevents your nails from lifting and provides better protection from chips and scratches. Avoid your cuticles and sidewalls when painting your nails.
Remove the gel polish properly:
Do not pick off your gel polish, as this can cause serious damage to your nails, weakening them and causing breakage. Instead, allow the gel to soak off patiently, so your nails remain undamaged. When removing properly, the gel should just crumble off without the need for forceful scraping.
Take breaks and care for your nails:
It is important to give your nails a break after two or three gel manicures to avoid weakened nail beds. Use nail strengthener or hardener treatments and cuticle oil to nourish your nails.
By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can achieve beautiful and healthy gel nails at home without having to visit a salon.
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Brands to use for gel nails at home
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people had to get creative with their beauty routines, as salons were closed. For those who enjoy gel nails, this meant learning how to do them at home.
There are several brands that offer at-home gel nail kits, which include everything you need for a salon-quality manicure. Here are some brands to consider:
14 Day Manicure
This kit includes a gel nail lamp, four small polishes (you can choose the colours), a base and top coat, a nail file and buffer, a cuticle pusher, and acetone removal solution. It is incredibly easy to use, thanks to the brand's application guides, and it lasts for more than two weeks.
Gellen
Gellen's starter kit includes a base coat, 12 bottles of gel lacquer, a top coat, several grooming tools, nail embellishments, and a UV drying lamp. The kit is easy to use, with straightforward instructions, and the polishes last for a full minute under the UV lamp.
Morovan Poly Gel Kit
This kit includes a nail dehydrator, primer, base and top coat, grooming tools, a drying lamp, and eight colours. The Morovan Poly Gel Kit delivers impressive results in terms of drying time, finished appearance, longevity, ease of removal, and nail integrity after removal. The only downside is that there is a slight learning curve when applying the nails.
Mylee
Mylee offers a wide range of gel polish colours, including nail-boosting builder gels. The polishes are easy to apply and long-lasting, making them a popular choice for at-home and salon manicures.
Chillhouse Forever Wear
This is a non-toxic formula that nourishes and strengthens nails while providing a gel-like finish that lasts up to 14 days. It does not require the use of a UV lamp, which is a plus given the potential health risks associated with UV lamps.
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How to remove gel nails at home
With nail salons closed during the pandemic, many people have been left wondering what to do about their gel nails. While some opt to let their nails grow out, this can be a slow process and may not be aesthetically pleasing. If you want to remove your gel nails at home, here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process safely and effectively:
First, it is important to note that simply picking or filing off gel nail polish can damage your nails, so this method should be avoided. Instead, you can try the following method recommended by board-certified dermatologist Shari Lipner, MD, PhD, FAAD: Start by protecting your work area with plastic wrap, as acetone can damage surfaces. Then, place a thick towel on top of the plastic wrap. Work on one hand at a time for easier management. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to each cuticle and the surrounding skin to protect them. Next, soak cotton balls or pads in acetone and place them on top of your nails. Wrap each nail tightly with plastic food wrap to seal in the acetone. Leave the wrap on for about 10 minutes. Finally, remove the wrap and gently wipe away the gel nail polish with a warm, wet washcloth. Wash your hands with gentle soap and water to remove any remaining acetone.
Alternatively, you can try the foil method, which involves filing down the shiny topcoat of your gel nails and then soaking your nails in acetone for 15-20 minutes. Cover your nails with foil during this process to prevent dripping. After soaking, the gel polish should flake off easily. If it doesn't, gently scrape it off with a cuticle scraper.
Remember to be gentle throughout the removal process to avoid damaging your natural nails. Additionally, be cautious when using acetone, as it can be harsh on your skin and nails if used too frequently. Always follow up with a nourishing hand cream or cuticle oil to rehydrate your nails and hands.
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Safety of nail salons during the pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped our lives, and the safety and well-being of individuals have become a top priority, especially in personal care services like nail salons. The safety of nail salons during the pandemic is a valid concern, as these establishments often involve close contact between clients and nail technicians. However, it's important to note that the level of safety may vary depending on the specific salon, its policies, and the adherence of both staff and clients to safety guidelines.
To mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission, many nail salons have implemented stringent safety protocols. These measures typically include mandatory mask-wearing, enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures, social distancing, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by staff. Additionally, some salons have reduced their capacity or implemented appointment-only policies to better manage client flow and maintain a safe environment.
If you decide to visit a nail salon during the pandemic, there are several precautions you can take to ensure your safety. Firstly, thoroughly research the salon's safety protocols and policies before booking an appointment. Opt for services that minimize close contact, such as manicures or nail art, rather than those requiring extended periods of proximity. Wear a well-fitting mask throughout your visit, and if possible, bring your own nail tools to reduce the sharing of equipment. Scheduling appointments during off-peak hours can also help avoid crowding.
For those who are hesitant to visit nail salons during the pandemic, there are alternative options available, such as premium press-on nail collections that offer a salon-quality look without the need for in-person visits. These innovative solutions provide a convenient and safe way to maintain nail care while staying at home.
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Nail changes after COVID-19 infection
The novel coronavirus has brought about many changes, and one of the more unexpected ones is the impact on our nails. "COVID nails" is a term used to describe nail changes that occur after a COVID-19 infection. These changes can manifest in various ways, and while they may be harmless, they can also indicate an underlying health issue.
One of the most commonly reported nail changes after COVID-19 is the appearance of horizontal grooves, known as Beau's lines. Beau's lines are caused by an interruption in nail growth, which can occur due to a major illness, such as COVID-19, or other factors like severe stress or nail damage. These lines look like dents or ridges that run horizontally across the nails. In some cases, people have also observed red or purple skin discoloration under their toenails, known as "COVID toes," which is another potential sign of a previous COVID-19 infection.
Additionally, there have been reports of other nail abnormalities associated with COVID-19. These include splinter hemorrhages, which present as small red or purple spots, and cases of brittle nails that are prone to splitting and peeling. It is important to note that while these changes may be linked to COVID-19, they can also be caused by various other conditions. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any persistent or concerning changes to your nails.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people had to forgo their regular salon visits and instead opt for at-home nail care. This led to a surge in popularity for gel nails, which can be applied and removed at home using LED lamps and products like the Alessandro striplac system or Masura. However, it is important to exercise caution when using these products, as the repeated application and removal process can lead to nail thinning and brittleness. Additionally, the use of UV lamps has been associated with premature aging of the hands and, in some cases, cancer-causing mutations. As such, it is recommended to opt for gel-like polishes that do not require UV lamps, such as Chillhouse Forever Wear, or to give your nails a break between gel manicures to allow them to recover.
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Frequently asked questions
The safety of nail salons during the COVID-19 pandemic is a valid concern due to the close contact between clients and nail technicians. However, many nail salons have implemented stringent safety protocols, such as mandatory mask-wearing, enhanced cleaning, social distancing, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize the risk of virus transmission.
If you plan to visit a nail salon during the pandemic, it is recommended to research the salon's safety protocols and choose a salon with appropriate safety measures in place. Opt for services that minimize close contact, wear a well-fitting mask, and bring your own nail tools to reduce equipment sharing. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
If you are hesitant to visit a nail salon, you can opt for at-home gel nail kits or press-on nail options. Some brands offer premium press-on nails with innovative adhesive technology, providing a salon-quality look in the comfort of your home. You can also explore gel nail alternatives like long-lasting manicures that do not require UV lamps, such as Chillhouse Forever Wear.
"COVID nails" refer to nail changes observed in some individuals after recovering from a COVID-19 infection. These changes include horizontal grooves known as Beau's lines, red or purple skin discoloration (COVID toes), splinter hemorrhages, and brittle nails. While these symptoms can be harmless, they indicate that the infection stressed your body or could be a rare symptom of the infection itself. If you notice any persistent or unusual nail symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
