You should read our ‘Everything You Need to Know’ series if:
– you are or want to be a nail tech
– you’re not sure what services to learn / offer
Each post in the series goes over specific nail technology, what they are, how they work, some considerations and also pro tips, so you can decide if you should be offering the service in your salon.
(If you do decide you want to learn something nail-related, just remember we’re a pretty great nail academy!)
This post in our series is about Gel Polish.
What are gel manicures?
Gel manicures use a special ‘gel’ polish that cures or hardens under a UV or LED light. Gel polish gained popularity in the early 2000s and creates a long-lasting, glossy finish that can handle daily wear and tear much better than traditional nail polish.
How does it work?
- Preparation: Start by prepping the nails—shape them, push back the cuticles, and lightly buff the surface.
- Base Coat Application: Apply a thin layer of gel base coat to each nail and cure under a UV or LED light.
- Gel Polish Application: Apply the first coat of gel polish and cure it. Repeat with a second coat for full opacity, curing each layer.
- Top Coat: Apply a gel top coat to seal in the color and cure one final time.
- Finishing Touches: Wipe off the sticky residue with a lint-free wipe soaked in cleanser to reveal a glossy finish. Massage in cuticle oil for hydration.
Benefits of gel manicures
- Long-Lasting: Gel manicures can last up to three weeks without chipping – perfect for clients who don’t want to be in the salon every week.
- High Shine: Your clients’ nails will stay glossy for the life of the manicure for a fresh and polished look.
- Quick ‘Drying’: Because the gel polish cures under the light, the gel is instantly ‘dry’, so no smudges = happy clients.
- Versatile: Gel polish comes in a wide range of colors and finishes, including glitter, matte, and even magnetic effects. Gel can also be applied on top of other products like acrylic or BIAB.
What to look out for
- Curing: Over or under curing can cause problems, so make sure to follow your lamp brand’s recommendations and use the same brand of gel polish and UV or LED light to cure the gel.
- Removal Process: Removing gel polish requires soaking in acetone, which can dry out the nails if not done properly.
A well-educated and qualified nail tech like our Monaco students and grads will be able to take these factors into account and keep clients safe.
Pro Tips for better gel polish manicures
- Learning Curve: There might be a learning curve when starting with gel polish, but with practice, you’ll be confident.
- Thin Layers: Apply gel polish in thin layers to avoid a thick, uneven finish that doesn’t cure properly.
- Seal the Edges: Cap the free edge of the nails with each layer to prevent chipping.
- Hydrate: Ask your clients to keep their nails and cuticles hydrated with oils and lotions to maintain nail health between manicures.
Want to offer gel polish manicures?
Gel manicures balance durability and light-weight ‘natural-ness’, which is why they’re such a staple in any nail tech’s offered services. They provide a solid foundation for any high quality manicures from plain colour all the way to tiny and creative pieces of art.
At Monaco Nail Academy, we teach and use all kinds of nail technology products and services, including how to do nail art and market your salon services. You can sign up for our Manicures and Pedicures course (which includes gel polish) or find the right course for you with the Course Finder Quiz.
Happy gel-ling! 🌟
Want to know if you should learn and offer a different service? Check out our other posts below.
Everything you need to know about…
Gel | Dip | Acrylic (Liquid and Powder) | Hard Gel | PolyGel | Preformed Soft Gel Extensions | IBX | E-File | BIAB
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