Gel lengthening is one of the most popular and popular methods for getting longer and stronger nails today. Although every length and shape offers a lot of possibilities for our nail department, sometimes the goal is actually just to add a long and durable tip to the end of each nail, or even provide more space for general nail art and polishing. At this time they come in handy.

This manicure technique may well be the answer to our prayers for beauty, but of course, it also has its advantages and disadvantages. Just like acrylic nails (one of the first salon-approved methods to extend natural nails), it can last up to four weeks, but both have a destructive reputation. This is why it is important to understand what they are before starting to delve into the world of nail extensions.

Read on to learn all about gel nail extensions directly from the experts, including how they are applied and how they differ from acrylic nails.

Gel nail extension is a process that involves a hard gel that is built on a natural nail and cured with ultraviolet light. Manicurists use nail shapes, which are basically stickers placed under the free edge (tip) of the nail to extend the length of the nail. 

Top manicurists like Davis and Seni also rely on a newer approach. "This is a fully soft gel nail tip that has been shaped, and you can use the gel to fix it on the natural nail," Davis explained. They come in different sizes and shapes, such as stilettos, round, coffin, and square. Since it does not require filling, it is even faster to build than actual gel extension. "I definitely recommend the Kiara Sky Gelly Tips and Apres Gel X brands," Seney said.

The only prerequisite is that your nails cannot be bitten quickly. "For gel extension, your nails need to be a little bit longer, not a ton, but a little bit," Davis said. "If your nails are too short, there is nothing to stick to the extension cord."

When it comes to getting a box of pre-formed gel nail extensions or actually making them, the manicurist first needs to prepare the nails (file, clean and polish the nails). Then, the expert applied a shape under the natural nails, created the length layer by layer with gel additives, gel primer and gel topcoat, and allowed them to dry under LED or UV lamps.

If you use a pre-formed kit like Apres Gel X, Seney explains: “In the second step, I use adhesive (which will dry your nails) and primer (which will make your nails sticky), so that Glue can stick to it," she said. All these products are provided with the kit. "Third, I apply a layer of gel on the actual nails and let it dry in the light for about 60 seconds. After choosing the size that fits the client’s actual nails, I apply the gel to the inner side of the gel extension, and then apply it Put it on the real nails. Now it’s time to hold down, and then sit under the light for 60 seconds." Puff! The nails are ready to be used for your favorite polishes and manicures.

Both acrylic resin and gel can be used to make nail extensions. They usually also have a similar appearance, although the gel tip may feel lighter. It is mainly about the structure of the nail, but the real difference lies in the polymerization process, ease of removal and density. "The process of using the gel is definitely faster. There is no strong smell, and you won't have the trouble of filing or handling dust," Seni explained. "For acrylic nails, you have to mix a liquid called a monomer and a powder (polymer) to shape the artificial nail."

Davis warns that some manicurists will market their gel extensions when they are truly acrylic. "The gel is in the jar and looks as thick as honey; acrylic is a powder. Know the difference," she pointed out. 

Acrylic resins tend to be harder than gels, which also means less flexibility. They also tend to cause more damage to the nails, especially because it requires more difficulty to remove it by soaking in acetone and polishing. Over time, over-polishing also means that the nails become thinner. 

According to Davis, the life span of the gel tip extensions depends on how you use your hands-for some people, they will last two weeks; for others, they will last four to five. "I recommend manicure every 12-16 days. After that you will grow naturally," she said.

Davis said that if they are not removed properly, they will only be harmful to your nail health. "Aprés are soft gels, so they are completely absorbed like normal gel nails," she explained, noting that no strong polishing is required. However, just like ordinary gel nails, Davis does recommend that gel extensions be removed by a professional-preferably the person applying them so that they know exactly what type of gel they are removing, thereby reducing Possibility of damage.

To remove the gel extension, the manicurist will file off about 85% of the extension, soak the remaining gel in acetone wrapped in aluminum foil, and then wait for 15 minutes. "Then I gently push away the product and polish the natural nails. The removal will take up to 30-40 minutes," Seni said.

If applied and removed correctly, gel extension is very safe. "They are considered a healthier version of acrylic, especially because they don't have powder or harsh chemicals like methyl methacrylate and toluene," Sene said. You just need to make sure to find a professional you trust and get good reviews. 

Just like any other nail art look, the benefits of gel nails are personal. Although they undoubtedly create more space for popular nail art, Davis reminds us that nails of various lengths can fit into this trend. "The only nail art trend that works better on clear gel extensions is'jelly mani'. Its nail polish is transparent," she points out. So, in the end, Davis boiled it down to a simple question: "Do you want your nails to grow?" she asked. "Get the extension."

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