Want to Try Gel Manicures? Here Are 7 Things You Should Know Before Following the Fad

Sophisticated and long-lasting. Those are the perks you get from a gel manicure.

But are you sure that gel manicures are good for your nails and hands? Here are the 7 things you should know before opting for this type of manicure, according to Reader’s Digest Asia:

1. Yes, gel manicures last longer than traditional polish, and it’s especially great to wear on important occasions like weddings and other important events. Compared to traditional polish that starts to chip on the second or third day, gel manicures can last up to 10 days.
2. Nevertheless, you should be careful with the UV-emitting lamp that’s used to dry gel manicures. Gel manicures cure quickly, and that’s with the aid of UV rays. But this is among the matters you should take caution of, according to renowned dermatologist Dr. Chris G. Adigun. “These lamps are not to be underestimated, even though the exposure times are brief. They are very powerful and are emitting UVA rays far more powerful than those emitted by the sun,” said Dr. Adigun. She recommends the wearing of a UVA-blocking sleeve while doing the curing process of gel polish.



3. Gel nails require proper application. Curing via a UV-emitting lamp can be messed up even by experienced nail techs. Over-curing will make the gel polish very difficult to remove. In fact, it will have to be removed manually, which is detrimental to the nail plate.
4. Your nails can get weakened by gel manicures. That’s due to the process that the nails and nail plates go through, resulting in dehydration and thinning.
5. Remove gel polish with care. You should be gentle in removing gel polish, and this is done with cotton soaked in acetone and thin foil. Using nitrile gloves can speed up the removal process, with the gel crinkling up in 7 to 10 minutes.



6. Refrain from getting gel manicures frequently. Another recommendation from Dr. Adigun is to take gel manicure detoxes between applications for nail repair and rehydration.
7. After a gel manicure, be sure to moisturize your nails. Use a warm lotion with vitamin E when you soak your nails to moisturize them. Also, apply cuticle oil as frequently as possible. To help your nail health to bounce back, you can also opt for a salon paraffin wax treatment.