Do you want your manicure to endure through a vacation, a hectic work schedule, and days filled with hands-on projects? A gel manicure might be your answer. Gel nails can last anywhere from two to four weeks, making them a popular choice for those who want their nails to look good for an extended period of time.
However, gel nails are not for everyone. Keep reading to find out whether you’re a good candidate for this type of manicure.
Gel Manicure vs. Regular Manicure
A gel manicure is essentially the same as a regular manicure, with the exception that it uses a different technique to polish your nails. Your nails are trimmed, filed, and shaped in the same manner as usual; if you wish, you may trim (if necessary) and cutaway (if desired).
Regular polishes chip easily and fade over time, requiring frequent touchups to maintain an attractive appearance. Gel polish is applied like regular nail polish, but it is cured under a UV or LED light. This hardens the polish and allows it to last longer without chipping or fading.
Gel manicures can last anywhere from ten days to three weeks, thanks to the curing process.
Related: How I Plan to Grow Out My Short Nails: A Self-Care Guide
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost varies depending on where you get your nails done, and how big of a manicure you request. The below rates were received by SoNailicious from various spas in the New York City area:
- Regular Manicure : $25-30
- Gel Polish Upgrade : $35-40
- Full Gel Set (includes cuticle work, shaping, and polish) : $50-60
So, if you’re looking to get a gel manicure, be prepared to spend around $35-45. However, the results are well worth it – your nails will look great for weeks at a time!
Benefits of Gel Nails
Gel nails are a great choice for those who want their nails to look good for an extended period of time. They can last anywhere from two to four weeks, making them a popular choice for vacations and busy work schedules. Gel nails are also a good option for those who have trouble keeping their regular manicure looking neat and tidy.
How to Get a Gel Manicure
If you’re interested in getting a gel manicure, the first step is to make an appointment with a nail technician. During your appointment, the technician will file and shape your nails before applying a base coat. Next, they will apply two coats of gel polish, followed by a top coat. Finally, they will cure the polish under a UV or LED light.
Related: DIY: Manicure For Nail Biters
How to Remove Gel Nails
While it’s no fun to have your gel polish chip; however, you should never (and we mean never) try to remove the rest.
The most significant disadvantage of gel manicures is their removal. Removing gel nails can be a bit tricky, but it’s definitely doable at home. The first step is to soak your nails in a bowl of acetone for about 15 minutes. Then, use a cuticle pusher or orange stick to push the gel polish off of your nails. Finally, rinse your hands and apply a moisturizing cream.
Are Gel Nails Right for Me?
Gel nails are a great option for those who want their nails to look good for an extended period of time, but they’re not right for everyone. If you have trouble keeping your regular manicure looking neat and tidy, then gel nails might be a good choice for you. Gel nails are also a good option for those who have a busy work schedule because they can last much longer than traditional polishes.
Related: Quarantine Self-Care Guide: Skin, Nails, & Hair
Are Gel Manicures Safe?
The jury is still out on this one. UV lights automatically come with the assumption of scary side effects. Some people claim that gel manicures can cause cancer due to the UV light used to harden the polish. However, there are no scientific studies that prove this to be true. Also some brands have switched over to LED curing, thanks to their lower levels of UV rays.
Others argue that gel nails can damage your nails over time. This is also up for debate, as there is no concrete evidence to support this claim.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide whether or not gel nails are safe for you. If you’re unsure, consult your doctor or nail technician.
Gel nails are a great option for those who want their nails to look good for an extended period of time, but they’re not right for everyone. If you have trouble keeping your regular manicure looking neat and tidy, then gel nails might be a good choice for you. Gel nails are also a good option for those who have a busy work schedule because they can last much longer than traditional polishes.