Finally, wash your hands with soap and water to remove any traces of gel removal solution. Be sure to file in one direction, and avoid sawing back and forth, as this can damage your nails.Īfter the gel overlay is removed, you will need to use a nail buffer to buff your nails and remove any residual gel.
Start by filing the top layer of gel off of your nails, and then work your way down until all of the gel is removed. If you choose to file off your gel overlay, you will need to use a coarse nail file. A simple way to achieve this is to a soak cotton ball in the solution, apply to the nails then wrap your fingers in tin foil.Īfterwards, use a cuticle pusher or nail file to gently scrape the gel off of your nails. To remove gel overlay using a gel removal solution, you will first need to soak your nails in the solution for a few minutes. Removal solutions are available over the counter at most beauty supply stores. Gel overlay can be removed using a gel removal solution, or by filing it off.
#NAIL OVERLAY MANUAL#
However, if you are hard on your nails or do a lot of manual labor, they may only last one week or less. With proper care, they can last anywhere from two to four weeks. The life of a gel overlay will depend on how well you take care of them. The gel overlay application process is relatively simple:ġ) File and shape the nails to your desired styleĢ) Prepare the nail bed by pushing back the cuticlesĤ) Apply the desired color of gel polish (or sculpting/builder gel – see above)ĥ) Cure time 30 seconds to 60 seconds, under a UV lightħ) Cure under a UV light for 30 seconds to 60 seconds, depending on the type of gelĭone! Your nails will now be protected and strong! It is available in a wide range of colors, and can be either UV or LED cured. Sculpting gel is UV cured.Ĭolor gel overlay: Color gel is a type of soft gel that can be used to create artificial nails. It can be used as an overlay on top of natural nails, or to create nail extensions. Sculpting gel overlay: Sculpting gel is a type of hard gel that is used to create artificial nails. Builder gels can be either UV lamp or LED cured. It is often used as an overlay on top of natural nails, in order to add strength and durability. Within the realm of hard and soft gel, there are a couple of additional types:īuilder gel overlay: A builder gel is a type of hard gel that is used to create a stronger nail extension. Soft gel is ideal for those who are looking for a natural-looking artificial nail. It is then cured under a UV light to create a softer, more flexible nail. Soft Gel on the other hand, is made from a mixture of acrylics, monomers, and gel. Hard gel is ideal for those who are looking for a long-lasting, durable artificial nail. It is then cured under a UV light to create a hard, durable nail. Hard gel is a type of artificial nail that is made from a mixture of acrylics and monomers. There are two types of gel overlay: hard gel and soft gel. – Adds extra protection against nail damage It is not used to add length to the nail.
Its also a great way to add extra protection against chipping and splitting. Unlike artificial nails (like acrylic), Gel overlay can be used to strengthen natural nails. It is made up of a gel base and top coat, which are both cured under a UV light.
#NAIL OVERLAY FREE#
Gel overlay is a type of gel that is applied over the entire nail (not just the free edge) to strengthen and protect it. The mixture is then hardened under a UV light, and gives your nails strength and length. What is an acrylic overlay?Īn acrylic overlay is when acrylic powder and a liquid monomer is applied to your nails. There are many different types of overlays, but the most popular types are either acrylic or Gel. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between gel overlay vs gel polish, so that you can decide which product is right for you! Difference Between Gel Overlay Vs Gel PolishĪ nail overlay is a product that is applied over your natural nails in order to give them strength and length.
Both products have their own unique benefits, which is why it’s important to know the difference between the two. Gel overlay and gel polish are two of the most popular methods of applying acrylic nails.