Feb 27 , 2025

How to Choose a Gel Manicure That Lasts

How to Choose a Gel Manicure That Lasts

If you're obsessed with a pristine nail look that lasts, the gel manicure is for you. The popular manicure is cured under UV light for a longer lasting, high-shine finish. However, there's more than one type of gel polish, and choosing the right one for you requires a bit of research.

Gel nail polish is a hybrid form of regular nail polish that's applied on natural nails, acrylics, or nails extensions (gel extensions). It needs to be cured under UV or LED lamps and doesn’t need to dry like traditional nail polish. The nail technician will apply a base coat layer to prepare your nails for the gel polish, then add color and cure it again under the lamp. A shiny topcoat is then added for a smooth finish.

During the curing process, it's important to keep your hands and fingers away from sunlight as it can shorten the lifespan of your nail color. It's also a good idea to moisturize your hands and cuticles daily to minimize brittleness and ensure they stay healthy.

If your hands are dry, they may develop cracks under the gel polish, which can cause it to lift prematurely. Luckily, there are simple ways to prevent this. Simply soaking your hands in warm water after washing them can help restore the moisture, extending the life of your manicure. You can also use a rich, moisturizing cream, such as petroleum jelly, on your nails and cuticles to rehydrate them.

Gel manicures can last up to a month if you take care of them. Soaking your manicure in acetone at home can also help make it last longer. First, buff the surface of your nails with a nail file and soak a cotton ball in pure acetone until it's completely saturated. Place the cotton ball on your nail and wrap it in aluminum foil. Leave it to soak for 10-15 minutes and then remove the cotton ball. Repeat as needed to maintain a chip-free gel manicure that lasts.

The best shade of gel nail polish will depend on your skin tone and personal style. Neutral colors such as sandy beige, muted terracotta, and soft sage green are popular because they offer a subdued yet sophisticated look. Cool blue shades have also been making waves, offering a refreshing pop of color to your look.

While many people believe that LED nail curing lamps are safer than UV curing bulbs, they still emit UV rays. This can cause thinning of the natural nails, which may lead to nail infection or breakage. It's recommended to avoid getting gel manicures from salons that use LED lamps as they may be causing more harm than good.

Although the glitz, glamour, and beauty benefits of a gel manicure are undeniable, it's important to remember that there are still potential risks. The most common ones include: