Are you looking for an easier method to get a great manicure look without the hassle? Regular nail polish takes a long time to dry and easily chips off, but gel manicures have become a trend because of their convenience and long-lasting benefits. They are an excellent alternative to regular nail polish. You can paint them on like nail polish, dry them using UV/LED lamps and enjoy them for up to two weeks, if not longer! When it comes to gel manicures, you have two options: soak-off gel and hard gel.
What are Soak-Off Systems?
What is soak off gel polish? This is also referred to as a soft gel manicure. The advantages of curing it under a UV/LED lamp are that it hardens the gel polish, making it last longer while also giving it a shiny appearance. A soak-off manicure will last approximately two weeks without chipping. Soak off gel also is safe and generally does not cause damage to your nails. If you have weak nails, gel can add a layer of strength to your nails.
The disadvantages, however, include that you cannot add to the length of your nails using soak-off gel nail polish. We also recommend giving your nails a break from soak-off gel manicures for two to three weeks after the removal of each gel manicure. This will help prevent your nails from getting dry and brittle.
What are Hard-Gel Systems?
Hard gel manicures typically last for up to three weeks without chipping or damage and look shiny and fresh the entire time they’re on. If you want to add some length to your nails, hard gel manicures are the way to go.
The downside of gel manicures is that removing it can be damaging to your nails in a similar way that acrylic nails do. Since precision is important here, we recommend going to a professional with training from a reputable nail school like the beauty technicians here at Emi School.
Chemical Makeup Requires Different Removal Techniques
Since the chemical make up of the soak-off and hard gel manicures is different, there are different techniques required for removal.
Soak-off gel is porous, so soaking it in acetone (nail polish remover) for about 10 minutes makes the gel come off very easily. Hard gel, on the other hand, is nonporous and removal requires a special filing tool.
Tools and Processes Necessary for Removing
The ease of removing gel polish makes it a favorite option for many. The key is to soak your nails in acetone. Trying to remove a gel manicure without soaking will damage your nails. Companies that manufacture gel nail polish offer tools and solutions for gel nail polish removal. The key is to protect your nails from damage during the polish removal process. The top layer of the hard gel should be filed off using a coarse nail file. Acetone can have a drying effect on your nails. There are non-acetone nail polish removers on the market, however, these are not as effective as acetone.
The Best Nail School in Toronto
There are many advantages of gel nail polish and knowing how to apply and remove them properly is paramount. Want to learn more about manicures? Get in touch with Emi School for details about our in-person and online training courses. Become a nail tech yourself by learning from the very best in the business!
Very informative.
Thank you
Thank you so much, we are trying our best to ensure that everyone succeeds in their nail journey.
This was very helpful. I’m glad this information was available so I can understand the process more easily.
Thank you so much , we are trying!
Can I use soak off nail gel on stick on nails?
Just to confirm, are you looking for a soak-off gel for long nails?