Having gel nail extensions done on your nails is a great alternative to other nail enhancements for many reasons. Learn why other nail aficionados are loving this trend and see if it fits your style!
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Gel Nail Extensions | Why It’s a Must-Try
What Is Gel Nail Extensions?
Gel nail extensions are similar to acrylic nails in terms of adding length and shape to your nails. The latter, however, uses paint and powder while letting it dry for a significant amount of time.
Meanwhile, gel nail extensions use hard gel and are cured by UV or LED lamps for only 30-45 seconds and 2-3 minutes, respectively.
What widens the gap is the components used in gel extensions, which are deemed safer than acrylic. Applying acrylics require solution products that contain methyl methacrylate, which is deemed harmful by the FDA.
The only downside for gel extensions is the exposure to ultraviolet rays, but as studies suggest, the radiations produced by these curing tools can hardly cause cancer.
Why Should You Try It?
As mentioned, gel nail extensions are safe for both you and the person doing the enhancement since it’s chemical-free. Also, it is very durable and should last more than three weeks before quality starts to fade.
How to Apply Gel Nail Extensions
- For a natural nail overlay, prepare the nail and apply gel essentials bonder to the whole nail.
- Apply a very thin layer of gel and work well into the nail. This does not require curing.
- Then, apply a large bead of gel. Avoid cuticles and sidewalls.
Tip: Maintain contact between gel and brush to keep it smooth. What’s amazing about gels is it won’t slump or run. This gives you plenty of time to do all five nails before curing. - Cure for 90 seconds in a LED lamp or two minutes in a UV lamp.
- Once done, remove the tacky layer and refine the shape using a buffer.
- If you want to apply gel polish, this is the time to do so. Cure it again once done.
- Finish it off by applying a no wipe top coat.
How to Remove It
Since you’re dealing with hard gel, it won’t come off by simply soaking your nails in acetone. You may want to visit the nail salon as a professional nail drill is required to remove it before dipping it in acetone.
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Where Should You Get Gel Nail Extensions?
If it’s your first time, it is best to visit a nail salon to get a grasp on how to apply it. The process can be intricate, especially when trying to obtain perfectly long and shaped extensions.
It is highly recommended for you to use a nail form so you can estimate how long and thick you want your gel nails. The video below should help you execute this properly.
When Should You Get This Done?
As much as you want your nails looking fabulous all the time, it is important to let it “breathe” for at least one to two weeks. Plus, excessive exposure to UV rays may lead to thinning and weakening of your natural nails.
Be sure to add moisturizer and nourishing oils during this process so your nails will be in better and healthier shape for your next nail salon appointment.
Who Should Try It?
This nail enhancement is ideal for gel nail enthusiasts who have yet to try this procedure. Also, this is a must-try for people who don’t mind getting their natural nails covered in overlays and coated with multiple polishes.
Want to learn how to do gel nail extensions? Watch this video by The Nail Hub:
Gel nail extensions are indeed a safer and more natural alternative than acrylic nails. It’s so flexible that you can fully customize the shape of your nail tip and paint it with your desired colors.
Moreover, it’s easy to do and you won’t have to visit a nail salon often just to get this done. So instead of having liquid paint and powder full of chemicals touching your nails, why not go for the safer and healthier alternative?
Did we miss other gel nail extension facts that are worth noting? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
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