When is comes to gel manicures, the nail care industry’s newest star, there seems to be a lot of contention about its quality and its affect on the natural nail. As a salon and spa that offers gel manicures, we answer questions every day regarding this service and constantly bust or confirm myths that people have heard through countless sources. We know that if some of our customers have these questions—then others probably do too! So, today let’s clear the air regarding gel manicures.
Gel Manicure Myths
Myth #1: They are the same as acrylics!
This myth is so busted! Most gel manicures—though not all—are much better for the natural nail than acrylic nails. Gel manicures differ from acrylics in that they don’t damage the natural nail because they do not require drilling, they do not need to be filled, and the polish is dry instantly! Gel manicures are performed with hybrid nail polish that is applied directly to the nail just like normal polish, but it is cured with a UV light that dries it instantly!
Myth #2: They last two weeks!
This myth is confirmed! When applied correctly to healthy nails, gel manicures last at least 2 weeks.
Myth #3: You can remove them at home by yourself!
This myth is confirmed, but with the warning that removing them by yourself can prove timely! At Le Jardin Day Spa and Salon, we recommend that our clients come in to have them removed in a process that usually takes 10-15 minutes. If you do choose to remove them yourself at home, be sure to not scrape or peel the polish off without first having saturated your nails in acetone as removing it dry can damage the nail. Our nail professionals recommend that you soak cotton in acetone and place the cotton on the nail. Then, wrap each finger with foil and allow your nails to soak up the acetone for about 10 minutes. At that time, you should be able to easily pull the polish off the nails.
Myth #4: They are safe for natural nails!
This myth is confirmed– for the most part. With a few exceptions (which I will get to with the next myth), gel manicures are perfectly safe for natural nails. Because gel manicures do not require the nail technician to rough up or “drill” the natural nail, these manicures are completely safe. Just be sure you don’t pick the polish off, or otherwise remove it improperly, as this will cause damage to the nail.
Myth #5: All gel manicures are the same!
This myth is busted! All gel manicures are certainly not the same. One example is OPI Axxium. OPI’s version of the gel manicure does require the technician to rough up the nail and is thus no better for natural nails than acrylics. The best system that we have encountered is CND’s Shellac. This system requires no drilling, goes on and removes easily, and comes in a variety of gorgeous colors.
Now that you know the truth about gel manicures, are you going to give them a try?
