These days, gel nails have become among the most common techniques in manicure practices. Gel nails are famous for being durable, glossy and anti-chipping giving them a superior edge over normal nail polish. It is important to understand why gels stick and how they are applied before doing a gel nail job. In this article on gel nails: rationale, application process and significant factors that ought to be considered by potential users.
Scientific Perspective on Gel Nails
Gel nails were the one nail technique that includes use of a special gel formulation for a long-lasting shiny finish. The core science of gel nails is based on curing or hardening the gel through usage of ultra violet (UV) or light-emitting diode (LED) light. This curing process makes the gel more durable and functional.
Ingredients of Gel Nails
The polymers and oligomers form the main ingredients of gel nail products. They are types of chemical substances which form an interlaced web made up of multiple molecules. When first applied they exist in a liquid state but change into solid hard form when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) or light-emitting diode (LED) light.
Curing Process
It is a very important step in the gel nail system. When applying, the gel is spread onto thin layers over either the natural nail or on top of a nail extension. For every layer applied there will be exposure to either UV or LED lights that trigger photochemical reactions leading to cross linking of polymer chains in the gel, making it a hard and tough protective coating. Usually more exposure time is needed for UV light compared to LED which has a faster curing rate.
The Application Procedure
- The process of applying gel nails, however, requires a series of painstaking procedures which require precision and strict instruction following every time for the best results.
- Preparation: Natural nails have to be thoroughly prepared before applying gel nails. This means that the polish should be removed, nails should be filly filed and also cuticles pushed back. The other thing worth noting is that these gels do not adhere when there are oils on the nails and other debris.
- Base Coat Application: In this process, a base coat is applied as a first step in gel nail application. The smooth surface provided by this base coat enhances better bonding of the gels after its curing under UV or LED light.
- Gel Application: Further, it is recommended that gel is layered on top thinly with each layer cured under light source. For opacity as well as finish desired multiple layers might be necessary.
- Top Coat Application: After the gel has been applied, a shiny finish is imparted by top coating it so that it can last longer. When a UV or LED lamp shines on this top coat one more time it becomes cured too.
- Post-Curing: Once the last top coat gets cured, there may still be some residual stickiness left from the surface of the nails which usually gets cleaned off using any gentle cleanser or an alcohol wipe.
Conclusion
For a polished look, gel nails are refined and long-lasting. Knowing the fundamentals of its science and core factors will help users in making decisions when using it for beauty. When applied correctly and well cared for, gel nails can be a truly long-lasting and attractive manicure.
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