Isla Bennett
Gel nail polish is known to change colour or develop unsightly discolouration, and this tends to occur on the dominant hand. There are several reasons for this phenomenon, including exposure to sunlight, self-tanning products, chlorine, and chemicals such as cleaning agents, skincare products, and sanitizers. Additionally, certain foods with high acid content, spices, and hair dyes can also cause discolouration. Some gel nail polishes are designed to change colour under specific conditions, such as temperature changes or UV light exposure. While it can be frustrating, preventing discolouration may not always be possible, and it can be challenging to predict when it will occur.
Why does my gel nail polish discolour?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Quality of the gel | Lower-quality gels are more prone to discolouration |
| Thickness of the gel | When nail polish is too thick, it can discolour |
| Exposure to sunlight | Exposure to sunlight can cause discolouration |
| Exposure to UV light | Excessive exposure to UV light can cause discolouration |
| Exposure to chlorine | Chlorine can cause discolouration |
| Exposure to chemicals | Chemicals such as cleaning agents, hair dye, skincare products, and sanitizers can cause discolouration |
| Exposure to solvents | Solvents such as insect repellent and sunscreen can dissolve and cause discolouration |
| Smoking | Smoking can cause discolouration, especially on the dominant hand |
| Food | Food with high acid content, spices, and certain ingredients can cause discolouration |
| Use of gloves | Wearing gloves can help prevent discolouration |
| Use of tea tree oil | Tea tree oil can help remove discolouration |
| Use of base and top coats | Using a base and top coat can help prevent discolouration |
| Use of anti-stain products | Anti-stain products can help prevent discolouration |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Exposure to sunlight and self-tanning products
To prevent discolouration, it is recommended to store nail polish in a cool, dry place and to avoid excess sun exposure. Sunbeds, natural sunlight, chlorine, chemicals, and solvents will all cause discolouration, so it is important to take precautions such as drying nails after swimming and before sun exposure, as both chlorine and the sun act as bleaching agents.
Additionally, certain skincare and sunscreen products can cause discolouration. Solvents such as insect repellent and sun tan lotions contain DEET, which can dissolve and cause problems with nail products. It is therefore advisable to wipe nails or wash hands immediately after applying these products. Applying two gel top coats can also help to deter UV rays from penetrating the colour.
Discolouration can also be caused by hair dye, which can stain nails, and bleach, which can discolour them.
The Perfect Cure: Sally Hansen Gel Nail Polish Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Reaction to chemicals in cleaning supplies
Gel nail polish is prone to discolouration due to various factors, including exposure to sunlight, self-tanning products, and certain chemicals. One of the main culprits of gel nail polish discolouration is the reaction to chemicals found in cleaning supplies.
The harsh chemicals in cleaning supplies can react with the gel polish, causing it to discolour and turn yellow. This is especially true for white gel nail polish, which is known for its crisp and clean appearance. The chemicals in cleaning agents, skincare products, and sanitisers can accelerate the yellowing process. To prevent this, it is recommended to wear gloves when cleaning or handling chemicals to create a protective barrier between the gel polish and the chemicals.
Additionally, there are other, less obvious chemicals that can also affect gel nails. For example, makeup, skincare products, and hair dye can stain and discolour nails. Certain foods with high acid levels and spices can also contribute to nail discolouration. It is important to be mindful of these hidden chemicals and take precautions, such as washing hands or wearing gloves, to minimise their impact on gel nail polish.
While it may be challenging to completely avoid discolouration, there are some remedies to restore the colour of gel nail polish. Soaking a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover can help remove fresh stains. Alternatively, creating a paste from lemon juice and baking soda can be applied to the nails, followed by a gentle scrub with soapy water to lift stains. For more stubborn stains, a sugar scrub made from brown sugar and coconut oil, or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water, can be effective.
It is worth noting that discolouration can also occur due to over-curing or under-curing of the gel polish. Each manufacturer can provide guidance on potential issues with their products and curing lights. Additionally, excess exposure to UV light from sunbeds, natural sunlight, or computer screens can contribute to discolouration and fading. Applying a clear nail polish over the gel polish or using a gel top coat can offer some protection against discolouration caused by UV light and chemicals.
Gel Nail Color: Harmful or Healthy?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Staining from hair dye and skincare products
Gel nail polish can be prone to discolouration due to a variety of reasons, including exposure to sunlight, self-tanning products, and certain chemicals. However, one of the most common causes of gel nail polish discolouration is staining from hair dye and skincare products.
Hair dye, especially those with vibrant colours, can easily stain not only your scalp but also your nails. This can happen when you scratch your scalp and the dye residue gets left behind under your nails. To prevent this, it is recommended to wear gloves when applying hair dye or to use a stain-resistant top coat for your nail polish.
Skincare products such as moisturisers, lotions, conditioners, and sunscreens can also cause discolouration to gel nail polish. This is due to the chemicals present in these products, which can react with the gel polish. To avoid this issue, it is suggested to use gloves when applying skincare products or opt for skincare formulas that are nail-friendly.
Additionally, certain foods with high acid content, spices, and ingredients can contribute to nail discolouration. To remove stains caused by hair dye or skincare products, natural remedies such as tea tree oil, brown sugar and coconut oil scrubs, or hairspray can be used.
It is important to note that while these measures can help reduce the chances of discolouration, preventing it entirely might not always be possible. The porous nature of gel nail polish makes it susceptible to staining and discolouration over time.
If you are experiencing persistent or severe discolouration, it may be worth consulting a nail technician or cosmetologist for personalised advice and treatment options.
Gel Nail Polish: How Long Does It Really Last?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Low-quality gel polishes
Gel nail polish is prone to discolouration due to several reasons, and one of the main reasons is the quality of the gel polish. Lower-quality gels are more likely to be brittle and discoloured. The thickness of the nail polish can also affect the outcome and appearance of the polish.
It is important to store nail polish in a cool, dry place as overexposure to sunlight can cause discolouration and make the gel go bad. Quality and price are often equivalent, and higher-priced salons or brands are more likely to use better products. However, this may not always be the case, and discolouration can occur even with high-quality products.
To prevent discolouration, it is recommended to use quality gel nail polish and store it properly. Additionally, using a top coat can help protect the colour and prevent discolouration. Some top coats are designed to be anti-stain, which can be beneficial in preventing discolouration caused by hair dye, skincare products, makeup, lotions, and fabrics.
It is also worth noting that certain gel nail polishes are designed to change colour under specific conditions, such as temperature changes or UV light exposure. While these polishes provide a fun and fashionable experience, they may not be suitable for those seeking a long-lasting, consistent colour.
Overall, while discolouration can occur with gel nail polish, taking proper care and using high-quality products can help reduce the likelihood and severity of the issue.
Dip Powder Gel: A Split Nail's Savior
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Overexposure to UV light
To prevent discolouration caused by UV light exposure, it is recommended to avoid spending too much time in the sun or using sunbeds after getting a gel manicure. Additionally, using a top coat can help deter UV light from directly penetrating the colour and causing discolouration. Applying two thorough gel top coats can provide added protection.
It is also worth noting that certain gel nail polishes are designed to change colour under UV light, so choosing the right nail polish is essential to avoid unexpected colour changes.
While discolouration may occur despite taking precautions, there are ways to reduce the risk. Using quality gel nail polish and storing it in a cool, dry place can help prevent discolouration. Additionally, avoiding exposure to chemicals and cleaning agents that contain harsh chemicals can also reduce the chances of discolouration.
If discolouration does occur, there are ways to restore the original colour. Soaking nails in tea tree oil or using a sugar scrub made from brown sugar and coconut oil can help remove stains and restore the colour of the gel nail polish.
Gel Nails: Salon Removal Techniques and Aftercare
You may want to see also
