It is a Goldilocks substitute for acrylic and gel.

If you like the appearance of acrylic and gel nail art, but don't want to risk damaging natural nails, Polygel may be the Goldilocks solution for your nail game. Hybrid polishing basically uses the most durable option—that is, durability and flexibility—but it won't hurt your nails in the process.

Polygel is a true blend of acrylic and gel nail polish formulations. LeChat Nails educator Syreeta Aaron said: “It combines the durability of acrylic with the flexibility of construction gel applications.” The durability is also impressive-Polygel nails should last about 4 weeks on average, which is better than most gels. The nails should be long. And, despite the staying power of the polish, it actually looks thinner and feels lighter on the nails.

However, one of the most attractive benefits of using Polygel is that it does little damage to the nails. "Gel nail art and acrylic can cause trauma and weaken your natural nails, so if you are looking for a healthier alternative, Polygel is definitely worth considering," Keesha Clark, owner and designer of Born Noir Nails, told Bustle.

You don't even have to go to the salon for this kind of manicure-read on for information on how to make Polygel nails at home.

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The first thing: buy Polygel. Aaron's favorite is Gelish's polish, and the brand happens to make things simple with its all-in-one PolyGel trial kit. You can also try the ModelOnes home kit with a free-standing UV lamp-if you are looking for a nail extension cord to apply long-lasting nail art, they also sell it.

Next, set up your workspace like any other DIY nail art. For reference, most of the Polygel process is similar to the ordinary gel process. "Preparing the nail surface is like applying a gel polish, including applying a dehydrating agent to natural nails," Clark said. "After that, apply the gel primer and cure with a UV lamp." The standard curing time is 60 seconds per layer, but please follow the specific instructions for the product you are using.

If you use nail extension cords, you need to apply and prepare your "form" (also called extension cords) before applying the primer. Once in place, the base will stick the length to the nail.

It's time to apply Polygel, and Aaron says this can be done in one of two ways, depending on whether you use extensions. For your natural nails: Squeeze a small amount of gel on a metal tool, such as a cuticle pusher or a skin spatula (these tools can apply thick nail polish more easily), then transfer the gel to your nails . From there, brush the polish on the nails and let each layer solidify.

For extensions-or "tips"-brush the polish to your preferred tip shape and length, then set. (This just means less shaping in the future.)

After your nails are applied and cured, it's time to shape and/or polish. Clark said that this is after Polygel, because the polish is very thick, so it is easier to handle the final product and smooth any rough or uneven edges. Nail drills are not required, but Aaron adds that if you are not experienced with manual filing, nail drills may be helpful.

Once you have the desired shape, apply and cure the gel topcoat, and voila: you're done!

No special technique is required to remove nail polish-Polygels can be removed by soaking the nail in acetone, just like a gel. But before soaking, Aaron recommends filing the hard finish with a file to simplify the removal process. She said that an ordinary nail file should be enough, but if the gel is on the thicker side, an "electronic file" (or electric nail drill) may be needed.

"Once the layer breaks, dip your nails in acetone and continue filing until the smear is completely gone," Aaron said, noting that you need to be patient and careful in the process. "In terms of damaging your nail plate, removing everything will make a difference," she said. Whether you are using Polygel, regular gel or acrylic, if you peel or tear them off, your nails are at risk of damage-so give these tips some gentle TLC so that they are in your hands Stay healthy and strong during a manicure.