Gel nail polish has revolutionized the world of nail care, offering a long-lasting and glossy finish that traditional polishes can’t match. This article explores what gel nail polish is, its chemical composition, and the different types available. It also highlights key differences between gel and regular polish, the best curing light options, and how long gel polish lasts.
Additionally, it delves into its history, whether it qualifies as fake nails, and the distinction between gel nails and gel polish. A step-by-step application guide is included, along with an overview of its benefits and potential drawbacks. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned user, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about gel nail polish.
What Is Gel Nail Polish
Gel nail polish is a type of nail coating that cures under UV or LED light, forming a hard, durable, flexible, and low-maintenance layer on the nails. Unlike traditional nail polish, which air-dries and lasts up to 7 days, gel polish offers a non-toxic, high-gloss finish that resists chipping for 2-3 weeks.
According to Justyna Putek & Team, the exposure to LED or UV light in gel nail polish curing triggers polymerization, a chemical reaction in which the oligomers cross-link to form a hard, durable layer on the nails.
This process forms a hard, glossy layer that remains intact for weeks without chipping or peeling. The long-lasting shine and resilience make it a preferred choice for flawless manicures.
However, the curing process involves direct UV exposure, and removal requires soaking in acetone or mechanical filing, both of which contribute to nail thinning, brittleness, and potential skin irritation.
Gel nail polish adds a smooth and glossy finish to the nails, making them look clean and well-groomed. Well-maintained nails enhance the beauty of the hands and give a neat appearance. A nail salon in Dubai offers gel nail services to help people achieve beautiful and polished nails. Professional care can make hands look more elegant and boost confidence in personal appearance.
What is The Chemical Composition of The Gel Nail Polish
Gel nail polish is formed of methacrylate, acrylate derivatives & photoinitiators that trigger polymerization for adhesion under UV light. Oligomers are added to enhance viscosity, pigments provide color, plasticizers improve flexibility, and stabilizers extend shelf life for a long-lasting, durable finish.
According to study, such chemical components present in gel nail polish ensure a flawless, long-lasting manicure, with each ingredient contributing to its durability, adhesion, and overall appearance.
This precise blend of components gives gel nail polish its signature strength, high-gloss finish, and long-lasting wear.
How Does Gel Nail Polish Differ From Regular Nail Polish?
Gel nail polish differs from regular nail polish in composition, curing process, durability, and longevity. Gel polish contains methacrylate-based compounds and photoinitiators, while regular polish is composed of nitrocellulose. Gel polish cures under LED/UV light, whereas regular polish air-dries naturally. Gel polish hardens instantly, while regular polish takes hours to dry. Gel polish provides a durable, non-toxic finish resistant to chipping and scratching, whereas regular polish is less durable and more prone to chipping and scratches. Gel polish lasts up to 21 days without fading, while regular polish typically lasts up to 7 days before chipping or fading.
According to Gabriela Kennedy & Team, gel nail polish hardens rapidly, creating a non-toxic, long-lasting finish resistant to chipping and scratching. Gabriela Kennedy & Team also stated that regular nail polish dries in air naturally as the solvent evaporates, a process that takes several hours or even overnight and often produces an unpleasant odor.
Which Light is Better For Curing Gel Nail Polish: UV Light or LED Light
When curing gel nail polish, both UV and LED lamps effectively initiate polymerization, but they differ significantly in safety and exposure duration.
UV and LED lamps both cure gel nail polish, but they differ in key aspects. UV lamps pose a higher exposure risk, while LED lamps are less risky. UV lamps require protective measures like sunscreen, whereas LED lamps need fewer precautions. UV lamps are more expensive, while LED lamps are more cost-effective. UV curing takes 2–3 minutes, but LED curing completes in just 30–60 seconds. UV lamps are less skin-friendly, while LED lamps are gentler on the skin. UV lamps are less efficient, whereas LED lamps offer a faster and more effective curing process.
Moreover, according to Anna Słabicka & Team, the effects of UV nail lamps (365–405 nm) on human keratinocytes, revealing that a 4-minute exposure caused an insignificant decrease in cell viability (p < 0.1), whereas prolonged 20-minute exposure led to a significant 35% reduction (p < 0.0001). These findings suggest that while typical manicure exposure does not cause significant cellular damage, extended exposure poses a higher risk.
Additionally, SPF 50 sunscreen significantly improved cell viability across all durations (p < 0.0001), reinforcing the importance of protective measures when using UV lamps.
On the other hand, According to study, LED lamps have been replacing UV lamps in nearly every major application due to their long-term economic and safety benefits. LED curing requires only 30–60 seconds, compared to 2–3 minutes with UV lamps, significantly reducing UV exposure time and potential skin risks.
Given this, LED lamps provide a more efficient and skin-friendly option for curing gel nail polish, while UV lamps require extra precautions such as sunscreen application to minimize potential damage.
Can I Use Gel Polish Without UV Light?
Yes, you can use gel polish without a UV light by curing it with an LED lamp. Gel polish contains photoinitiators, such as benzoyl peroxide and diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide, which require exposure to specific wavelengths of light to trigger polymerization and harden the polish. According to Anna Słabicka-Jakubczyk & Team, UV lamps emit broad-spectrum ultraviolet light (300–410 nm) for curing, LED lamps provide a more focused wavelength (375–425 nm), curing gel polish more efficiently and reducing exposure time. However, not all gel polishes are LED-compatible, so it’s essential to check the formula before using an LED lamp. If a polish is formulated only for UV light, it will not cure properly under an LED lamp.
How Long Does Gel Nails Polish Last?
Gel nail polish lasts for almost 2–3 weeks without chipping or fading. Gel nail polish cures under UV or LED light, forming a durable, cross-linked polymer structure. This polymerization enhances scratch resistance, color retention, and overall longevity to keep them last up to 21 days.
When Gel Nail Polish Was Invented?
Gel nail polish was first introduced in the early 1980s in the U.S. as a longer-lasting and more durable alternative to traditional nail polish. According to the thesis by Abigail Giarrosso, gel nail polish initial success was limited due to the curing methods available at the time. Early formulations required UV light exposure for polymerization, but the technology was not yet widely accessible, making it less practical for salons and consumers. Over time, advancements in UV and LED curing systems improved the efficiency and popularity of gel polish, leading to its widespread use in the modern beauty industry.
Is Gel Nail Polish Fake Nails?
Gel nail polish is not fake nails. Gel nail polish enhances natural nails, while fake nails add artificial nail extensions. Gel nail polish is a liquid gel formula, whereas fake nails use acrylic or sculpted materials. Gel polish is applied directly to the natural nail, while fake nails involve attaching tips or overlays. Gel polish provides a durable, glossy finish, while fake nails create an extended nail shape. Gel polish strengthens natural nails, but fake nails completely hide their appearance to come on top.
While gel polish provides long-lasting wear and strength, it does not function as a false nail enhancement.
Is Gel Nail and Gel Nail Polish the Same Thing?
No, gel nails and gel nail polish are not the same things. Gel nails are enhancements, while gel nail polish is a coating. Gel nails involve applying faux extensions, while gel polish is applied directly to natural nails. Gel nails change length and shape, while gel polish only enhances appearance. Gel nails require sculpting or tips, while gel polish cures under UV or LED light.
While both use gel formulas, gel nails alter the nail’s length and shape, whereas gel polish only enhances the nail’s appearance without extensions.
How Many Types of There Gel Nail Polish
Gel nail polish is categorized into different types based on its formulation, flexibility, and removal method. The two primary types are hard gel polish and soft gel polish, each serving distinct purposes in nail enhancement and care.
Hard Gel Polish
Hard gel polish is a durable, non-porous gel that forms a strong protective layer over the nails. It not be removed with acetone and requires filing for removal.
Its high-strength formula makes it suitable for overlays and nail reinforcement, providing long-lasting wear without chipping or breaking. Applied with a brush and cured under UV/LED light, hard gel polish creates a glossy, solid finish that lasts for weeks.
Soft Gel Polish
Soft gel polish is a flexible, soak-off gel that adheres to the natural nails, offering a lightweight and glossy finish. It dissolves in acetone, allowing for easy removal without filing.
While it does not provide structural support for nail extensions, soft gel polish ensures a long-lasting, chip-resistant manicure that remains intact for weeks. Cured under UV/LED light, it delivers a smooth and even coat ideal for routine nail maintenance.
Both hard gel and soft gel polishes offer unique advantages, catering to different nail care needs. While hard gel provides unmatched durability for nail enhancements, soft gel delivers convenience and a flawless finish for routine manicures. Understanding the differences between these types helps in selecting the right option based on desired longevity, maintenance, and overall nail health.
How to Apply Gel Nail Polish
You can follow the simple steps to apply gel nail polish:
Clean, dry, and shape your nails, push back cuticles, and buff the surface for better adhesion.
Apply a thin base coat, cap the edges, and cure under an LED (60s) or UV lamp (2 min).
Apply 2-3 thin coats of gel polish, curing each layer before adding the next for even coverage.
Use a cotton bud with nail polish remover to clean excess polish before curing the final layer.
Apply a top coat, ensuring full coverage, and cure under the LED/UV lamp.
Wipe off the sticky residue with rubbing alcohol for a glossy, smooth finish.
Hydrate cuticles with cuticle oil to keep nails healthy and flexible.
Benefits of Gel Nail Polish
Gel nail polish provides a long-lasting, salon-quality finish with minimal upkeep. Its unique formula enhances durability, flexibility, and overall nail health, making it a top choice for many.
Here are the key benefits of gel nail polish:
- Durable
- Strengthens Weak and Brittle Nails
- Protects Natural Nails
- Fixing Broken Nails
- Easy To Maintain
- Quick to Dry
- Saves Time
- Professional Nail Finish
- Chip-Free
- Glossy Shine
- More Flexible
- Creates Nail Art
- Creating Nail Extensions
- Best For an Ombre
- No Stirring Required
Offers Durability
Gel nail polish offers several advantages that make it a popular choice among nail enthusiasts, starting with its exceptional durability.
According to yeditepe.edu.tr, gel nail polish is known for its long-lasting durability, making it a preferred choice over traditional nail polish.
Gel polish undergoes photopolymerization when cured under UV or LED light, creating a strong, resistant layer.
The process allows gel polish to remain chip-free and intact for up to 2-3 weeks, significantly reducing the need for frequent touch-ups and providing a long-lasting, glossy finish.
Its long-lasting formula not only resists chipping but also provides added strength to weak and brittle nails.
Strengthens Weak and Brittle Nails
One of the key benefits of gel nail polish is its ability to strengthen weak and brittle nails. Gel nail polish creates a durable, protective layer that helps reinforce the nail plate, reducing breakage and splitting. This makes it especially beneficial for individuals with weak or brittle nails, as the cured gel provides additional support.
A study by Soni Nanda & Chander Grover found that gel nail applications improved the appearance and structural integrity of cosmetically disfigured nails, demonstrating their role in nail reinforcement. Similarly, by forming a resilient shield, gel polish enhances the nails’ durability, allowing them to grow with reduced risk of damage.
In addition to adding strength, it also acts as a protective barrier, preventing damage to natural nails.
Protects Natural Nails
Another advantage of gel nail polish is its ability to protect natural nails from daily wear and tear. Gel nail polish creates a protective layer that minimizes water absorption and safeguards natural nails from external harm.
According to a study, nail coatings reduce water loss, limiting moisture absorption that weakens nails. By sealing the nail surface, gel polish preserves nail strength and integrity while reducing peeling, cracking, and breakage.
Beyond protection, it can also be used to fix broken nails, providing a quick and effective solution.
Fixes Broken Nails
Among the many benefits of gel nail polish, its ability to fix broken nails stands out as a practical solution. Gel nail polish used to patch up a broken or cracked natural nail, providing strength until it grows out. When applied over the damaged area and cured under a UV or LED lamp, the gel forms a reinforced layer that prevents further splitting. This temporary repair helps the nail remain intact while growing naturally.
A study in Medical News Today confirms that gel coatings effectively stabilize weakened nails, reducing the risk of additional breakage. By creating a protective barrier, gel polish ensures the nail remains secure and aesthetically maintained during the healing process.
Not only does it help repair damage, but it is also easy to maintain, ensuring long-lasting results with minimal effort.
Easy To Maintain
An-other key advantage of gel nail polish is that it is easy to maintain, requiring minimal touch-ups. Gel nail polish is easy to maintain, staying chip-free and glossy for up to three weeks without frequent touch-ups.
Unlike regular polish, which smudges or wears off quickly, gel polish cures instantly under UV or LED light, ensuring a long-lasting, salon-quality finish. Its resistant formula minimizes daily upkeep, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a durable and hassle-free manicure.
In addition to being low-maintenance, it also dries quickly, saving time during application.
Dries Quickly
An-other standout benefit of gel nail polish is its ability to dry quickly, reducing the risk of smudging.
Gel nail polish dries instantly under UV or LED light, eliminating the long drying time required for traditional nail polish. Daryan Chitsaz & Jeanne Fanny Madranges state that, Regular nail polish relies on air drying, which takes hours or even overnight and produces an unpleasant odor. In contrast, gel polish undergoes photopolymerization, a process in which the polish hardens upon exposure to light.
According to Azom, UV and LED lamps cure gel polish in as little as 25–50 seconds, depending on the lamp intensity and formulation.
This fast-curing technology prevents smudging and reduces waiting time, making gel polish a convenient and efficient option for those seeking a flawless, long-lasting manicure.
Since it dries almost instantly under a curing lamp, it also helps save time, making it ideal for busy individuals.
Saves Time
An-other major benefit of gel nail polish is that it saves time. Gel nail polish dries within seconds under UV or LED light, eliminating long drying times and the risk of smudging. Its durability ensures a chip-free finish for up to three weeks, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
This makes gel polish a time-efficient choice for individuals seeking long-lasting, low-maintenance manicures.
In addition to saving time, it also provides a professional nail finish.
Provides Professional Nail Finish
Gel nail polish provides a professional nail finish by delivering a smooth, uniform, and high-gloss appearance. Unlike traditional nail polish, which streak or form uneven layers, gel polish self-levels during application and cures under UV or LED light, ensuring a salon-quality look.
The formulation, which includes methyl acrylate and photo-initiators, allows the polish to harden into a durable and flexible matrix when cured, preventing smudging or uneven textures. This process results in a consistently sleek and refined finish, making gel nail polish a preferred choice for a flawless, professional appearance.
Along with its flawless appearance, it is also highly resistant to chipping, ensuring long-lasting results.
Resists Chipping
One of the biggest benefits of gel nail polish is its exceptional resistance to chipping, ensuring a long-lasting manicure. Unlike regular polish, which peel or chip within days, gel polish undergoes UV or LED curing, forming a durable, crosslinked structure that withstands daily wear. According to study, sustainable nail gel compositions confirm that properly formulated gel nail systems endure over 10,000 wet scrub cycles and more than 100 acetone double rubs, proving their high durability.
This long-lasting chip-free performance reduces the need for frequent touch-ups, making gel polish a convenient and reliable option for those seeking a flawless manicure.
In addition to its durability, it maintains a vibrant, glossy shine that enhances the beauty of the nails.
Provides a Glossy Shine
Gel nail polish is known for its high-gloss finish, providing a sleek and polished appearance that lasts for weeks. Gel polish undergoes photopolymerization under UV or LED light, forming a hardened and glossy surface.
According to Study, the formulation of gel polishes, consisting of urethane acrylates and methacrylate monomers, allows for a durable, high-gloss effect that resists dullness and wear. This lasting shine makes gel polish a preferred choice for those seeking a consistently fresh and polished look.
Beyond its brilliant shine, it also offers more flexibility, reducing the risk of cracks and breakage.
Offers Flexibility
Gel nail polish offers greater flexibility than traditional coatings, reducing the risk of cracking or breaking. Its formula contains methyl acrylate, photo-initiators, and plasticizers, which create a strong yet flexible layer when cured under UV light.
Study by Gabriela Kennedy & Team, indicates that gel polishes consist of 75% to 95% urethane (meth)acrylates, which contribute to their flexibility and adhesion on the nail surface.
This flexibility allows the polish to bend with the natural movement of the nails, preventing brittleness and chipping.
This flexibility also makes it an excellent choice for creating intricate nail art designs with ease.
Creates Nail Art
Gel nail polish has transformed nail art, making it easier to create detailed and long-lasting designs. Gel nail polish does not dry until cured under UV or LED light, allowing artists to take their time without worrying about smudging.
This feature makes it ideal for complex techniques like water marbling and blooming gel art, where colors blend smoothly to form unique patterns.
Gel polish provides a smooth application and extended workability, making it a preferred choice for intricate nail designs. Its chip-resistant and glossy finish ensures that nail art stays intact for weeks, offering both creativity and durability.
In addition to artistic designs, it is also ideal for creating durable and natural-looking nail extensions.
Creates Nail Extensions
Hard gel is a durable alternative to acrylics for creating nail extensions. Applied over nail forms or tips and cured under UV/LED light, it allows nails to be sculpted to the desired length and shape. Unlike acrylics, hard gel is non-porous, providing a strong yet flexible finish.
Beyond extensions, it is also the best option for achieving a smooth and seamless ombre effect.
Best For an Ombre
The smooth blending and layering capabilities of gel nail polish make it ideal for creating ombre nail designs. Gel formulas do not dry immediately, allowing for precise color transitions and seamless gradients. This extended workability enables nail technicians to achieve intricate designs with ease.
Additionally, the UV or LED curing process ensures that the layers stay intact, preventing smudging or uneven blending.
Unlike some traditional polishes, it does not require stirring before use, making application even more convenient.
Requires No Stirring
To prevent air bubbles in your nail polish, avoid shaking the bottle before application. Shaking traps air inside, leading to tiny bubbles that affect the smoothness of the polish.
Nail artist Simcha Whitehill told Allure, pumping the brush in and out of the bottle also introduces air pockets, compromising the final finish.
Gel polish remains chemically stable and does not separate, eliminating the need for stirring. This ensures a consistent and flawless application without the risk of air bubbles forming.
However, despite its many benefits, gel nail polish also comes with a few drawbacks that are important to consider.
Drawbacks of Gel Nail Polish
Gel nail polish offers many benefits, but it also comes with certain drawbacks that users should be aware of. While it provides durability and a flawless finish, potential risks such as allergic reactions, nail damage, and UV exposure should be considered.
Here are the key drawbacks of gel nail polish:
- Allergic Contact Dermatitis
- Mechanical Nail Damage
- UV-Induced Skin Lesions
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
One of the most reported concerns is allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), caused by exposure to methacrylates found in gel polish. A systematic review identified 62 cases of ACD (70.5%) among 88 reported patients, highlighting the risk of allergic reactions with repeated use.
Mechanical Nail Damage
Frequent application and improper removal techniques can lead to mechanical nail damage, weakening the natural nails. This accounted for 23 cases (26.1%), the review also stated, often resulting from excessive buffing or forceful peeling of gel polish.
UV-Induced Skin Lesions
The curing process requires UV exposure, which has been linked to rare cases of UV-induced skin lesions. Although only 3 cases (3.4%) were reported, prolonged exposure raises concerns about potential skin damage over time.
These findings emphasize the importance of proper application, safe removal techniques, and protective measures like sunscreen or UV-blocking gloves to reduce potential risks.
Does Keeping Gel Nail Polish For Long Cause Harm?
Yes, wearing gel nail polish for extended periods negatively affects nail health, especially when proper care is not maintained.
A study conducted by Justyna Putek & Team (Research Group of Experimental Dermatology) found that 48.3% of women experienced side effects during application, about 20% noticed issues while wearing gel polish, and over 75% reported adverse effects after removal. Prolonged wear prevents moisture and oxygen from reaching the natural nail, leading to dehydration and brittleness.
Additionally, Research also highlights common side effects such as pain, burning sensations, thinning, discoloration, and inflammation of the nail fold. Despite these concerns, nearly 80% of participants who experienced side effects continued using gel polish.
This underscores the importance of educating consumers on proper nail care and the potential risks associated with extended gel polish use, including the need for safe and effective removal methods.
Why Is It Important to Remove Gel Nail Polish Correctly?
Properly removing gel nail polish is just as important as applying it, as improper techniques can lead to nail damage, thinning, or peeling. While many people may be tempted to peel or scrape off the polish, this can weaken the nail bed and cause long-term harm. Instead, using the right removal method ensures that your nails stay healthy and strong. Understanding the safest techniques can help prevent damage and maintain nail health, especially when you remove gel nail polish at home.
What is The Best Brand of Gel Nail Polish?
The best gel nail polish brands are known for their high-quality formulas, long-lasting wear, and smooth application. Factors like pigmentation, curing time, chip resistance, and ease of removal play a crucial role in determining their effectiveness. Some brands excel in delivering salon-quality results with advanced formulations designed for durability and shine. In the UAE & Dubai, several best gel nail polish brands stand out for their performance and reliability, making them popular choices among professionals and at-home users alike.
