If you’ve ever tried a gel manicure, you know that the perfect look and extreme durability are just the beginning of why it’s so popular. There’s a reason gel manicures have taken the nail space by storm, easily surpassing other manicure techniques like acrylic. With high-shine gloss that stays put and almost no dry-down time, it’s no wonder they’ve become the manicure darlings of the beauty world. However, as much as we love the long-lasting results, the UV curing process that makes it all possible has raised some safety concerns.
Still, whether you go for the traditional or the newer options, the variety in types of gel manicures means there’s something for everyone. As someone who’s tried most, I can tell you the right choice depends on your lifestyle—whether you need something quick, cost-effective, or super durable. Let’s dive into the different types of gel manicures available to help you pick the one that fits your needs best.
Types of Gel Polishes (Short Answer)
Whether you choose overlay or top gel, these products are designed to add structure to your nail. A nail tech will consider the foundation, flexibility, and curing process to ensure compatibility with different nail products. Acrygel is another hybrid product that combines acrylic and gel, offering more strength and flexibility. Understanding these gel types and their viscosity helps determine the best products for your nails, whether at the salon or for home use.
What Is a Gel Manicure?
A gel manicure involves applying a gel-based polish to your nails, which is then cured under a UV or LED light to create a strong, durable, and high-shine finish. Unlike a traditional manicure, where the polish dries naturally, a gel polish hardens instantly after curing, making it long-lasting. Each layer of gel polish is applied and cured individually for around 30 to 60 seconds, ensuring it stays in place and remains resistant to chips, wear and tear, and other damage for up to three weeks.
The layers of gel also help protect your nails, while maintaining their glossy look throughout the manicure. You can enjoy a variety of colors and finishes, which is why gel manicures are so popular. The process allows you to leave the salon without the typical drying wait, and your nails are ready to go immediately after the topcoat cures.
What Are The Different Types Of Gel Manicures (Detailed Answer)
Soft Gel Manicures
When it comes to soft gel manicures, they’re often referred to as soak-off gels, and for good reason—they offer a blend of ease and flexibility that traditional nail polish simply can’t match. Unlike regular nail polish, these gels are applied just like a normal polish, but the real magic happens when they’re cured and hardened under either a UV or LED light.
One of the biggest perks is how easily they can be removed with a simple soak in acetone, making them incredibly convenient for those who love changing their nail color frequently. Not to mention, soft gels provide the most natural look and feel—perfect for anyone who prefers a more understated yet polished vibe. I’ve found that if you’re looking for something easy, low-maintenance, and beautifully sleek, soft gel is always a great choice.
Hard Gel Manicures
When you’re aiming for stronger and longer nails, hard gel manicures are a solid choice. These gels are thicker than soft gels, allowing nail technicians to sculpt and extend your natural nails, giving them a more durable and lasting effect. Like soft gels, hard gels are cured under a UV light or LED light, but they require a bit more work when it comes to removal.
You’ll need to do some filing, and this process takes a little more time to get just right. What really makes hard gels stand out is their durability, which means you’ll have a longer-lasting manicure that can handle the wear and tear of daily life with ease.
Builder Gel Manicures
Builder gel manicures are a type of hard gel that’s perfect if you’re looking to create long-lasting, strong nail extensions, similar to acrylic nails. These gels are thick and viscous, making them ideal for adding length to your natural nails. Just like other gels, builder gels are cured under a UV light or LED light, but they do require filing for removal.
If you have weak or brittle nails, builder gel can add both strength and length. Builder gel can come in two forms: soak-off (soft gel) or non-soak-off (hard gel), and it’s available in a bottle or pot. The builder in a bottle is easier to use due to extra dilution ingredients, while the builder in a pot is a bit more viscous, offering a stronger finish.
Should I Get Soft Gel or Hard Gel?
When deciding between soft gel and hard gel, it really depends on your lifestyle, nail health, and how often you like to switch up your manicure. If you want a natural look and enjoy changing your nail color frequently, soft gels are perfect because they’re flexible, authentic-looking, easy to remove, and less damaging to your natural nails.
On the other hand, if you need more strength and durability, especially if your nails are weak or brittle, hard gels might be the better choice. They can extend your nail length, handle some wear and tear, and last longer, but they do require filing for removal, which takes more time.
What Are The Benefits of Gel Manicures?
One of the biggest advantages of gel manicures is their long-lasting durability. You can enjoy a beautiful manicure for up to three weeks without worrying about chipping or peeling. The curing process under UV light or LED light gives your nails a high-gloss finish that stays glossy for the entire length of the manicure.
Plus, the quick drying time ensures that your nails dry almost instantly, unlike traditional nail polish which requires more drying time. This process also reduces the chances of smudges or dents, making your manicure look flawless.
Gel manicures also offer a lot of strength and protection for your natural nails, helping prevent breakage and splitting. With versatility, you can choose from a variety of gel polish colors and finishes, allowing for endless customization and creativity. They require minimal maintenance, needing almost no touch-ups. The smooth application of the gel formula ensures it goes on fluidly and evenly, creating a perfect appearance.
Whether you go for soft gel nails or hard gel nails, they offer the flexibility to withstand daily wear and tear. Plus, easy removal with acetone makes it simple to refresh your look with a fresh manicure, while the reduced dry time means you can get back to your routine without delay.
How Long Do Gel Manicures Last Compared to Regular Polish?
Gel manicures are known for their incredible durability. They can last anywhere from 10 days up to three weeks without chipping or peeling. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone who wants a long-lasting manicure.
Gel nails last much longer than regular polish, which typically begins to chip and lose its luster after just about a week. The difference lies in the curing process under a UV lamp or LED light, which hardens the gel and creates a strong coating that adheres firmly to your nails, making them more resistant to lumps and bumps.
Even though gel nails last longer than traditional nail polish, there are a few things to keep in mind. If your nails start to chip or break, you can use a nail file to reshape them. However, make sure your nail beds are dry and free of water, lotion, or oils before applying the gel polish to ensure it latches on properly and doesn’t lift. If you experience any gaps in color, finding a similar polish can help cover up the issue until you can visit the salon.
To make your gel manicure last longer, check out our tips on How to make Gel polish last longer.
Cost Of Gel Nails
When considering gel manicures, it’s important to know that gel polish generally costs about $10 to $15 more than a regular manicure. The cost can vary significantly depending on where you live, as nail techs and prices differ from one location to another. For example, in major cities like LA or New York City, a gel manicure can range from $30 to $50+. You should also factor in the cost of gel removal, which typically falls between $5 to $15, unless you decide to remove it at home.
Are Gel Manicures Safe?
When you get a gel manicure, it’s important to understand the safety concerns that come with it. One of the main risks comes from the UV lights used to cure the gel. These UV lamps can have carcinogenic side effects, much like tanning beds, and some studies, like one from 2023, have suggested they might increase the risk of skin cancer. While the research doesn’t clearly state how often you can safely get a gel manicure, it’s always wise to be cautious. A dermatologist like Marisa Garshick, MD, advises using UV protection, such as sunscreen or UV-protecting gloves, to minimize the risk during your treatment. I always make sure to apply a good amount of sunscreen when I go for my gel mani, just to be safe.
However, there’s some good news. Many salons have moved away from using potentially harmful UV lamps and switched to LED lamps. These lamps cure the gel much faster, in just 30 seconds, compared to the traditional UV lamps, which took up to 2 to 3 minutes. The shift to LED has not only reduced exposure to UV light but also made the process more efficient. More nail brands are using LED lamps because they are safer for both your skin and nails. I’ve noticed that with LED lamps, my manicures feel less damaging, and the results are just as stunning.
Salon Vs DIY Gel Manicure (Which is Best For You?)
When deciding between a professional and at-home gel manicure, there are a few things to consider. While at-home kits are more affordable and convenient, the results may not be identical to those from a salon pro. The steady hand and skill of a professional are hard to beat, and in-salon gel manicures tend to offer long-lasting and chip-resistant results due to the use of UV curing and high-quality products.
On the other hand, gel nail polishes like those from Deborah Lippmann or Sally Hansen are packaged with a lacker and top coat duo that doesn’t require a salon pro and still delivers great results with a lower risk of nail damage. While the price point for at-home gel kits is lower, the overall experience and nail health might differ from a professional manicure.
Can Gel Manicures Damage Nails & How to Remove Them
When it comes to gel manicures, one of the biggest concerns is the potential damage they can cause to your natural nails. Gel polish can sometimes be quite drying, leaving your nails feeling more brittle. However, the real risk comes from improper removal. If the polish is peeled or picked off, it can rip off the protective top layer of your nails, leading to further damage. As a result, experts strongly recommend proper removal methods to prevent this. I’ve learned the hard way that removal is key—so make sure to follow the right steps when doing it at home.
To safely remove a gel manicure, it’s important not to rush. Start by filing the gels to break the topcoat seal and then soak cotton balls in acetone. Wrap your nails in tin foil and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. After that, gently use a wooden nail stick to lift off the remaining polish. Be sure not to force it off, and if it’s not lifting easily, repeat the process for another 10-15 minutes. Visiting a professional for removal is always a safer bet, but when that’s not possible, a little patience goes a long way to avoid damaging your nails.
How to Choose the Right Gel Manicure
When choosing the right gel manicure, consider your lifestyle and the maintenance that suits you best. If you’re always on-the-go or need something durable, hard gels are a great choice because they are the most durable. For a more natural look or if you like changing your nail color often, soft gels or gel polish are quicker and easier to swap out.
If you’re looking for something low-maintenance, soft gels and gel polish are easier to remove. However, if you want a long-lasting result, hard gels and builder gels are a better option, though they take more time to remove as they need to be filed off. For a high-gloss and chip-resistant finish, gel polish is perfect. If you’re after intricate nail art or want to grow longer nails, hard gels and builder gels have the strength and flexibility to deliver the perfect look.
Aftercare Tips for Gel Manicures
After a gel manicure, it’s important to take care of your nails to keep them healthy. Even with the most gentle, professional removal, your nails can still feel dry, brittle, and fragile. To help restore them, it’s highly recommended to take routine breaks from gel and let your natural nails breathe. Applying a cuticle oil or serum after the manicure is essential to keep your nails from becoming too brittle. As Evelyn Lim, the chief educator at Paintbox, suggests, it’s important to rehydrate your nails after removal. Don’t forget to use moisturizing hand lotion and massage it into your fingertips to stimulate circulation.
Since your nails are no longer protected by the gel coating, they will be softer and more prone to breakage. After having the strength of a gel manicure, switching back to natural nails is a good reminder to treat them gently. Using an occlusive like Vaseline can help keep your nails nourished and protected. Just remember, your nails are an extension of your body, so treat them with care to avoid any accidental damage.
Conclusion
If you’re tired of constantly worrying about nail polish upkeep, a gel manicure might be the perfect option for you. After just one salon appointment, you’ll have a glossy, chip-resistant manicure that can last anywhere from 10 to 20 days, giving you the freedom to go about your day without worrying about touch-ups. For the most safest results, always opt for LED lights rather than a UV lamp during the curing process to ensure better protection.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen around your nails for an added layer of defense. To keep your nail beds in top shape, it’s always best to seek a professional for removal, and make sure to treat your nails with cuticle oil regularly. Avoid the temptation to pick or peel off the gel yourself, as this can cause damage. If you notice your nails react poorly to gel, it might be worth exploring a long-lasting alternative.
FAQS
Which Gel is Best for Nails?
If you prefer a natural look and enjoy changing your nail color, soft gels are a great option. They are flexible, look authentic, and are easy to remove, making them less damaging to your natural nails. However, if you have weak or brittle nails, hard gels are a better choice as they offer strength and durability. Both soft gels and hard gels serve their purpose depending on your nail needs. I’ve found that hard gels work well for protection, while soft gels are perfect for a quick, authentic-looking manicure.
What is the Strongest Type of Gel Nails?
If you’re looking for the most durable and strongest option for nail extensions, acrylic nails are the way to go. They are the most durable type of nail extensions and especially work well if you like to wear your nails long. In my experience, acrylic nails provide an excellent balance between strength and style, making them a popular choice for those seeking long-lasting results.
What are the Disadvantages of Hard Gel?
While hard gel offers a natural appearance and is often comfortable for clients, there are some downsides to consider. The removal process can be more challenging, and it may not be as durable as acrylics, especially for clients who use their hands a lot for work. This can result in the gel wearing down faster, leading to potential issues if you’re looking for something more long-lasting. Based on my experience, this tradeoff is something to keep in mind before choosing hard gel.
Does Builder Gel Damage Nails?
Builder gel is known for being effective in re-strengthening weak nails and helping them grow, causing minimal damage over time. However, removing builder gel can involve soaking nails in acetone, which can make your nails dry or brittle. From my experience, it’s important to balance the benefits of growth and strength with the potential side effects of removal.
