Gel Nail Cleansers have been around for a while now and some nail techs swear that they are absolutely needed to make your gel manicures look clean and spotless. But is this true?

I have been working with gel nails for many years now and I have used Gel Cleansers many times. I have also compared them to how well they perform to their alternatives.

So in this article, I am going explain what Gel Nail Cleansers are, what they are used for, the best brands, and also some alternatives that you can use.

What are Gel Nail Cleansers

Gel Nail Cleansers are made mostly with alcohol and are formulated primarily to help remove the sticky wet layer from gel manicures after curing.

But they can also be used to clean and prep your natural nails before applying nail products such as gel polish, builder gels, or acrylic.

Uses for Gel Nail Cleansers

Gel Cleansers have 2 main uses:

1- To Wipe Away the Wet Sticky Residue on Your Gel Top Coat.

Gel Cleansers are used to remove the sticky residue from your gel top coat after curing. This residue forms because the oxygen prevents some of the gel from curing completely.

After curing gel products a sticky residue is left over which is completely normal and only needs to be cleaned away from your gel top coat. The sticky residue on your colored gel polish does not need to be wiped away, it actually helps the top coat to adhere better to the colored gel polish.

So after curing your gel top coat you can use a lint-free cotton pad soaked with the Gel Cleanser to wipe away the sticky residue from your gel top coat.

To learn more about this check out my article on How to Remove Sticky Residue from Gel Nails.

2- To Clean & Prep Your Natural Nails Before Applying Nail Products

Gel Cleansers can also be used to prep your natural nails before applying any nail products like gel or acrylic. They work by cleaning off any moisture, dust, and oil from the nail plate.

Moisture, oil, and dust can prevent the gel, acrylic, or polish from bonding to your nail plate which is why they need to be removed.

If your nails are not properly cleaned before applying nail products lifting and peeling can occur.

To learn why its so important to prep and your clean your nails check out my article on the 10 Tips to Make Your Gel Nails Last Longer

Best Gel Cleansers

I have tried a few Gel Cleansers over the years and 2 best ones that are still available are:

1- Gelish Gel Cleansers

Gelish is the company that helped pioneer gel nail polishes. They are well known for amazing quality. And in my opinion, their Gel Cleansers live up to their reputation.

Gelish Gel Cleansers work quickly to wipe away any sticky residue from your top coat. And you don’t need to use much either just a little is needed. They also work well to clean up your nail plate to remove any moisture and dust.

Now my main issue with Gelish Gel Cleansers is that they are a bit pricey especially when compared to an alternative like basic rubbing alcohol. You can click here to see the price for Gelish Gel Cleansers on Amazon.

2- Karlash Gel Cleansers

Karlash Gel Cleansers are another great cleansers you can use. They work quickly and effectively.

But just like Gelish they are a bit pricey when compared to basic rubbing alcohol. You can click here to see the price for a bottle of Karlash Gel Cleansers

Are Gel Cleansers Really Needed

I definitely agree that Gel Cleansers does a really good job at removing the sticky layer and cleaning your nail plate but they have cheaper alternatives like rubbing alcohol that work just as well.

A 16 ounce bottle of rubbing alcohol cost half of what the same 16 ounce bottle of Gel Cleanser costs.

Some Gel Cleansers brands would argue that their formulas are the best at wiping away the sticky residue to give your manicure an extra clean look without any cloudiness.

But after years of using rubbing alcohol to clean my gel nails, I have found that Gel Cleansers will give you the same results except they just cost more and take up more space.

I prefer using alcohol wipes when wiping off the sticky residue from my gel top coat. It is more convenient and it it allows me to use 1 wipe per nail. I have found that this is the best way to make your gel nails look extra clean and glossy. Click here to see the wipes that I use.

I also prefer using nail dehydrators to prep my nail plate before application. Dehydrators are stronger and work better at removing oil and moisture.

Pro Tip – if you want to avoid having to wipe away the sticky residue then considering using No Wipe Gel Top Coats – click here to learn more.

DIY Alternatives to Gel Cleansers

To clean off the sticky residue from your gel top coat you can use:

• Rubbing Alcohol along with a lint-free cotton pad can be used to wipe away the sticky residue. I prefer using rubbing alcohol rather than Gel Cleansers since it tends to be cheaper and works just as well.

• An Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover a small amount of acetone-free nail polish remover can be used to wipe away the sticky residue from your gel top coat. Just don’t use too much.

Alternative ways to clean and prep your natural nails before applying nail products are:

• Rubbing Alcohol Or Acetone – you can use a cotton pad soaked with either rubbing alcohol or acetone to help clean off any dust from your nail plates
• Nail Dehydrators – are really good at removing moisture and any oils on your nail plate in my opinion they work better at doing this than gel cleansers.

You can click here to learn How to DIY Clean and Prep Your Nail Plate Before Applying Manicures.

The post What is a Gel Nail Cleanser- Is it Needed & Substitutes appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Yes, you can get an allergic reaction to Gel X Nails just like you can with any other type of manicure. And even if you don’t have an allergy to them you can develop one over time.

Also, sadly from my research and experience, I have noticed that allergies to Gel X Nails are more common when compared to allergies to other types of Gel Nails.

But thankfully I have found that this doesn’t need to be the case. That is why in this article we are going to cover:

• What causes Gel X Nail Allergies
• How to Prevent Them.
• And How to Spot and Treat Reactions.

What Causes Gel X Nail Allergies

Most cases of allergic reaction to Gel X nails usually occur because the Gel X Glue also known as Extend Gel gets onto the skin.

This is because most Gels used for manicures, especially those used for Gel X Nails contain strong chemicals like Hema that are not meant to be on the skin and are safe only on the nail plate.

Also, even if you don’t initially have an allergic reaction to Gel X Nails you are still not safe. This is because if you allow the gel to constantly get on your skin you can slowly become sensitive and be prone to reactions.

Now the reasons why Gel X Nails tend to have more cases of allergic reactions are:

• The way Gel X nails are applied increases the chances of some of the gel seeping out onto the skin. This happens a lot to beginners who don’t yet understand how much gel glue should be used.

• Gel X Glues tend to contain a higher concentration of Hema chemicals. This is because Hema chemicals like 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate are really good at making the gel adhere to surfaces. And most brands want to include Hema in their Gel X glue to make them work better.

Related Articles:

Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails

9 Tips to Make Gel X Nails Last Longer & Prevent Lifting

Tips to Prevent an Allergic Reaction to Gel X Nails

1- Don’t let the Gel X Glue go on your Skin

The main thing you can do to prevent developing an allergy to Gel X Nails is to avoid the Gel X glue from touching your skin.

One of the mistakes I see a lot of beginners make is they use too much of the Gel X Glue and this can lead to some of it seeping out onto the skin. So ensure you don’t use too much. A thick coat of gel and then a small bead is just enough. You can check out the video below to see how to do it.

Now if any of the Gel does go on your skin, it needs to be promptly cleaned off with a cotton pad soaked with rubbing alcohol.

You can click here to learn about Allergic Reactions to Acrylic Nails- How to Spot & Treat

Video of How to Safely Apply Gel X Nails

2- Use a Hema Free Gel as a Gel X Glue

If you suspect you are sensitive to Gel or you just want to be on the safe side. Then one of the steps you can take is to use a Hema-free builder gel instead of a Gel X glue.

Hema is one of the main chemicals that causes your skin to react to the gel and by removing it you lower the risk of a reaction.

Now Hema Free Builder gels won’t completely eliminate the risk of a reaction there are other chemicals in the gel that can also cause sensitivities and allergies.

You can click here to see a Hema-Free Builder Gel that would work with your Gel X Nails, it works just like Gel X Glue.

Also, click here to read about other Alternatives to Gel X Glue.

3- Ensure the Gel X is Cured Completely

If your Gel X Glue is not cured fully some of it can seep out and go onto your skin which can lead to a reaction.

This is why after applying and flashing curing each gel X nails I always cure all of them together for 60 seconds. Flash curing is not enough.

You also need to ensure that you are using a powerful nail lamp, Remember the lamp has to penetrate the clear nails to reach the gel glue.

I recommend using a nail lamp that is 48 watts or higher, you can click here to see the one I use.

How to Spot an Allergic Reaction to Gel X Nails

The best way to correctly diagnose an allergy to Gel X nails is to have a dermatologist perform an allergen test.

But these are the most common symptoms you can expect after an allergic reaction to Gel X nails:

• Nails, cuticles, and fingertips become red, inflamed, and swollen.
• Burning sensation around the nail and cuticle area.
• Fingers and nails can start to itch
• Development of a rash around the fingers
• The skin around the nails can start to become dry and peel.

It’s important to note that even if these symptoms are present, it doesn’t mean that you have an allergy. They can also be an indicator of a nail infection which from my experience has similar symptoms but takes a bit a longer time to develop.

Also, it’s very common for your nails to feel sore and hurt a bit after a manicure usually due to the filing and the cuticle being pushed back.

Related Articles:

Gel X vs Polygel- Which is Stronger & Easier to Apply

Gel X Nails vs Acrylic- Differences & Which One is Better

Hard Gel vs Gel X – Differences & Which is Better

How to Treat an Allergic Reaction to Gel X Nails

If the symptoms are extreme such as intense burning and pain then you need to go see a doctor promptly even before removing them.

But if the symptoms are relatively mild you can have the Gel X manicure removed and then get advice from a pharmacist or a dermatologist on what topical treatment can be used.

Common treatments that are usually prescribed are hydrocortisone creams and calamine lotions.

Related Articles:

How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home with Video Guide

3 Ways How to Safely Remove Gel X Nails at Home

The post Gel X Nail Allergies: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Gel X nails are quickly becoming a very popular way to create nail extensions. This is because of how easy and quick they are to apply without requiring so much practice and skill when compared to other types of nail products.

And one of the main reasons why Gel X nails are so easy to apply is because they use Extend Gel also known as Gel X Glue.

That’s why in this article we will explore

• What is Extend Gel/Gel X Glue
• How to Use it
• Best Brands
• And other alternatives.

What is Extend Gel

Extend Gel also known as Gel X Glue is a thick clear gel that is used to bond the Gel X nails to the natural nails. It is not the typical nail glue used by Press on Nails or nail tips instead it is a gel that needs to be cured with a UV nail lamp to bond the Gel X nails to your nails.

When you cure the Gel X Glue it binds the Gel X nails with your natural nails creating a strong long-lasting airtight bond.

Extend Gel is also applied as a base coat before the Gel X nails are applied. This helps the Gel X nails to adhere better to the nail plate.

Related Articles:

Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails

9 Tips to Make Gel X Nails Last Longer & Prevent Lifting

Difference Between Gel X Glue and Nail Glue

Gel X Glue or Extend Gel is not nail glue. I have seen alot of people make this mistake, that’s why I want to explain the differences up front. The Differences are:

• Conventional nail glue used to glue on Press on Nails or Nail tip are made of cyanoacrylate the same thing used to make super glue.

• Whilst, Gel X Glue or Extend Gel is basically an extra thick UV-cured base gel coat.

• This means that after Gel X Glue is placed on the nails they need to be cured to bond the Gel X nails with the natural nails. While regular nail glue dries and works instantly.

• Nail Glue is easier to apply and can work with any type of fake nails whilst Gel X Glue only works with transparent fake nails.

• Gel X Glue is way more durable, long-lasting, and less prone to lifting than nail glue.

• Gel X Glue is safer and less damaging to your natural nails than nail glue.

Related Articles:

Gel X Nails vs Acrylic- Differences & Which One is Better

Gel X vs Polygel- Which is Stronger & Easier to Apply

Can you use Regular Nail Glue with Gel X Nails

Yes, you can use regular nail glue to glue on your Gel X nails and you won’t need to cure the nails. But regular nail glue will be prone to lifting and not be as durable and long-lasting as Gel X Glue.

Related Articles:

Hard Gel vs Gel X – Differences & Which is Better

3 Ways How to Safely Remove Gel X Nails at Home

How to Use Extend Gel

1. First, a coat of the Extend Gel or Gel X Glue is applied to your nails and then cured for 20 seconds.
2. Next, a coat and a thick bead of the Extend Gel are applied under the Gel X nails.
3. Then the Gel X nails are gently slid onto your nail plate.
4. Next, the Gel X nails are flashed cured for around 20 seconds.
5. Once all of the Gel X nails are applied they are cured again for 60 seconds.

Video Showing How to Use Gel X Glue

Best Brands of Gel X Glue

1- Apres Extend Gel

The Apres Extend Gel is one of the best on the market. They are the ones that actually popularized the concept of UV-cured gel glue for Gel X nails.

In my opinion, their formula is thick and very sticky, unlike a lot of other brands that have a thinner consistency. I have found that a lot of other brands just rebrand their Base Coats as Gel X glue.

Now my main issue with Apres Extend Gel is its price, which is way too expensive. This is why I don’t really use them anymore.

But if you can afford them, then I highly recommend trying them out, Click here to see the Price for Apres Extend Gel on Amazon.

2- Saviland Gel X Glue

After trying Saviland’s Gel X Glue out a few times I think it is perfect if you are looking for a more affordable option that will get the job done.

You can click here to see the price for a bottle on Amazon.

3- UNA GELLA Gel X Glue

I love Una Gella’s new bottle design it allows you to deposit the gel glue as a bead which can be really helpful to gauge how much gel to use and for applying nail accessories, especially for a beginner.

Now the drawback is that since it doesn’t come with a nail brush you can’t really use it as a base coat but instead, you can always just use another gel base coat.

You can click here to see the Una Gella Gel X Glue on Amazon.

Alternatives to Gel X Glue & Extend Gel

If you don’t have Gel X Glue don’t panic you have other options that can work and in some cases work even better.

Also, if you are using these methods I highly recommend applying a gel base coat over your natural nails before using them.

These products are made to work with a Gel Base Coat whilst regular Gel X glue can work both as a gel glue and as a base coat.

Related Article – How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home with Video Guide

1- Polygel

Polygel has the thick consistency of acrylic but requires curing to harden like gel nails. And because of its thick consistency makes it great to work as gel glue for Gel X nails. I have used Polygel several times with my Gel X nails and each time it has performed perfectly.

Just deposit a bead of the polygel into the Gel x Nails, apply it to your nails, and then cure. Any brand of Polygel can work.

Also, if you are worried about an allergic reaction you can use a Hema Free Polygel to reduce the risks of a reaction. You can click here to see a Polygel with a nice Hema Free Formula.

Also, click here to learn more about Allergic Reactions to Gel X Nails.

2- Rubber Base Gel

Rubber Base Gels are an extra thick type of base coat. They are generally used as a base coat if you have very thin and weak nails. I usually use them as a base coat for gel polish on clients who have very brittle natural nails.

But they can easily be used as alternatives to Extend Gel. What I love about using rubber base gels with Gel X nails is unlike Polygel and Builder gels, Rubber bases can be used both as a glue and as a base coat.

You can click here to learn more about Rubber Base Gels.

3- Builder in a Bottle (Soft Builder Gels)

BIAB stands for Builder in a Bottle. It is a soft builder gel and as the name suggests comes in a regular nail polish bottle instead of a jar like most builder gels.

BIAB has a thick consistency which allows it to work as a great substitute for Extend Gel to bond your Gel X nails to your natural nails.

It is usually used to make gel overlays and to build out short nail extensions. You can click here to learn more about BIAB Gels.

4- Hard Builder Gel

Hard Builder Gel is a thick builder gel that is primarily used to make long nail extensions. It is very durable and long-lasting and can only be removed by being filed away since it is resistant to acetone.

You can easily use Hard Builder Gels as an alternative to extend gel and it might even last longer. But if you do use Hard Builder Gel removal will be tougher since acetone might not be suitable you might need to use an E-file to file it off.

And because of this I usually recommend using soft builder gels with Gel X nails if you don’t have any Gel X Glue.

You can click here to learn more about Hard Builder Gels.

5- Acrylic Mixture

This might be surprising but you can use acrylic mixture instead of Gel X Glue with your Gel X Nails.

The advantage of this is that you won’t need a UV lamp to cure, instead, the acrylic will harden naturally.

• Just make an acrylic bead with your acrylic liquid and powder.
• Then apply it under the Gel X nails
• And then hold it to natural nails for a few seconds
• As the acrylic hardens it will bond the Gel X nails to your nails.
• You can see how it’s done in the video below.

The post What is Extend Gel /Gel X Glue: How to Use & Alternatives appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Gel X nails are a relatively new type of manicure. And I am constantly asked what I think about it. And to be honest I am a huge fan.

This is because Gel X is one of the easiest ways to create durable extensions right from home. But they do have their drawbacks.

That is why in this article I am going to share with you the benefits, drawbacks, and potential side effects of Gel X nails to help you decide if they are right for you.

But first, what are Gel X nails, and can they damage your nails

What are Gel X Nails

Gel X Nails are basically full-cover premade gel nails that are glued onto your nails using a gel that is cured under a UV nail lamp.

They are very similar to Press on Nails except they are made of gel and they don’t use nail glue but instead use UV-cured gel glue to bond to your nails.

Video of Showing what are Gel X Nails

Will Gel X Damage Natural Nails

Once Gel X nails are applied and removed correctly they won’t damage and will have a minimum effect on your natural nails.

Natural nails are usually only damaged from nail products because of improper application or removal of the manicure and Gel X is the same. This is something that I have noticed from my years of experience dealing with different nail products from Gel to Acrylic.

To avoid Gel X or most other types of manicures from damaging your nails ensure that you:

• Avoid over-filing your nails and using any strong acid primers when prepping the nails for application
• Correctly remove the Gel X nails without soaking too long in the acetone or accidentally filing the natural nails.

I highly recommend checking out my article on 3 Ways How to Safely Remove Gel X Nails at Home

Related Articles –

Gel X Nail Allergies: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent

What is Extend Gel /Gel X Glue: How to Use & Alternatives

Benefits of Gel X Nails

1. Safer & less damaging to your nails – In my opinion, Gel X nails are safer for your nails when compared to other types of manicures such as acrylic and hard builder gel. This is because they are easier to apply and remove thus reducing the chances of your nails being damaged.

2. Faster & Easier to Apply – Gel X nails are premade so they require less skill and experience to apply. All you need to do is to glue them on. Which is easier and quicker than having to build them out like acrylic and gel.

3. Easier to Remove – From my experience most brands of Gel X nails are easily removed especially when compared to hard gel or acrylic. Gel X nails are soft gel meaning they can be removed by either soaking them in acetone or by filing them off using a nail file.

4. Generally Flexible and won’t break so easily – Gel X nails tend to bend and flex more easily when compared to other nail extensions like acrylic nails. This allows it to handle hard impacts without breaking.

5. Affordable – If you avoid the very expensive premium brands like Apres, then Gel X nails can be budget-friendly especially when comparing it to getting a gel or acrylic manicure at the salon. Modelones has affordable yet good-quality Gel X nails, click here to see them on Amazon.

To read how Gel X nails compare to other types of manicures check out these articles:

Gel X vs Polygel- Which is Stronger & Easier to Apply

Gel X Nails vs Acrylic- Differences & Which One is Better

Hard Gel vs Gel X – Differences & Which is Better

How Does Gel X Nails Feel

I wish I could give you a definite answer and say either Gel X nails have a nice lightweight and natural feeling or state that it’s heavy and bulky.

But honestly after trying a few Brands of Gel X nails out how they feel will depend on the brand that you buy. Apres nails are in my opinion the best with a lightweight and natural feel better than acrylic nails, but they are so expensive.

You can click here to see the price for Apres Gel X nails on Amazon.

Now Modelones also has some decent quality Gel X nails that feel really nice and natural and at a better price, You can click here to see them on Amazon

Cons of Gel X Nails

For me, Gel X nails have 3 main drawbacks:

1. Exposure to Strong UV Light – Gel X nails will require the use of a nail lamp to cure and harden. And the UV light from nail lamps can potentially affect your skin. But thankfully you can protect your skin by applying sunscreen or wearing manicure gloves.

The strong UV light from nail lamps are no joke some studies have even linked it to higher rates of skin cancer. This is why you need to use protection. You can click here to read my 6 Tips to Protect Your Skin Under a UV Nail Lamp.

2. Not as Durable and Long-Lasting – Gel X nails are not as strong and long-lasting when compared to acrylic or hard gel extensions. I have noticed that they can be prone to lifting especially if applied incorrectly.

Thankfully you can prevent Gel X nails from lifting, You can click here to read my 9 Tips to Make Gel X Nails Last Longer & Prevent Lifting

3. Not As Widely Available in Salons – Gel X nails are not so common in nail salons which mostly offer acrylic or conventional nail products. Thankfully Gel X nails are becoming more popular and if your nail salon doesn’t yet offer them you can easily DIY them at home

Related Article – How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home with Video Guide

Side Effects of Gel X Nails

There are no major side effects from Gel X nails. Any side effects will be the same as you would get from any other type of manicure such as:

• Natural nails and cuticles may feel sore due to them being filed and pushed back
• Cuticles and fingertips can temporarily become tender, red, and slightly inflamed this should ease after an hour or 2 after application
• Allergic reactions are possible like with any type of gel manicure. Reactions can lead to a lot of other symptoms that last a much longer time such as swelling and rashes on your fingers
• Nail Infections are also possible like with all types of manicures symptoms of nail infection can vary widely but one of the earliest and most common is itchiness.

The post Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Gel X nails are becoming increasingly popular this is because they are one of the easiest ways to create long-lasting extensions right at home.

Now because Gel X nails can last a fairly long time one of the questions I often get is can Gel X nails be filled?

And the answer is Yes Gel X nails can be filled and in this article, I am going to share with you step by step how to fill your Gel X nails at home.

When Can You Fill Gel X Nails

If your Gel X nails are still in good condition meaning they are not chipping or lifting you can fill them after around 3-4 weeks. But if your nails tend to grow faster you might need to do it sooner.

Now Gel X nails have a tendency to lift easily, especially if they were not applied correctly. This is why you must examine your nails thoroughly to look for signs of lifting and breaking.

And if you do see your manicure is lifting you will need to remove them completely and then apply new Gel X nails.

To remove Gel X nails at home check out my article on the 3 Ways to Safely Remove Gel X Nails at Home

Now to avoid lifting check out my article 9 Tips to Make Gel X Nails Last Longer & Prevent Lifting

How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home

What you are going to need:

• A Builder Gel, or a Polygel, or a Rubber Base Gel (Basically any thick UV-cured gel)
• Gel Polish
• Nail File ( I recommend using an electronic nail drill but you can use a hand file too)
• Cuticle pusher
• A Nail Primer and A Dehydrator
• Rubbing Alcohol and Cotton Pads

Step 1 – Push Back Your Cuticles

The first thing your need to do is use a cuticle pusher to push back your cuticles. This will prevent the gel from going onto the cuticle which can lead to lifting.

Any Gel that sits on top of the cuticle will lift, remember the gel is supposed to bond to your nail plate not to your cuticles.

Related Articles –

Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails

Gel X vs Polygel- Which is Stronger & Easier to Apply

Step 2 – Remove Gel Polish

Next, you are going to need to file away the gel polish, you can use a medium-grit nail file or medium-grit sanding band on a nail drill. For fills I use a nail drill, it’s much faster and easier to do. You can click here to see the price for one that is perfect for a beginner to use.

Do not remove the gel polish with acetone, acetone will weaken the gel x nails, so you need to file off the gel polish.

Related Articles –

Gel X Nails vs Acrylic- Differences & Which One is Better

What is Extend Gel /Gel X Glue: How to Use & Alternatives

Step 3 – File down the Back of the Gel X Nails

When filing off the gel polish you need to smooth out the back of the gel x nails right where it meets your natural nails. This is to create a nice smooth transition to your nails.

You need to always file the back part of the natural nails that are exposed. This roughens the nail plate up which will help allow the gel to grip onto it allowing it to last longer.

Related Article – Hard Gel vs Gel X – Differences & Which is Better

Step 4- Clean & then Apply the Primers

Next, use a cotton pad soaked with rubbing alcohol and clean off any dust from all the filing.

Apply a coat of the dehydrator to the exposed nails And then a coat of the nail primer to the entire manicure.

Related Article – What are Nail Primers & Dehydrators- How & When to Apply

Step 5 – Apply the Gel

• Before applying the gel, apply a gel base coat over the entire nails and the cure for 20 seconds.
• Next, place a small bead of the builder gel in the exposed area at the back of the nails.
• Then use your brush and gently spread it to fill the area out and try to have a smooth transition with the Gel X nail.
• Then cure for 30 seconds
• Next, apply a thin layer of the builder gel over the entire nails and then cure for 60 seconds.
• File and buff your nails until they are smooth and to the shape that you want
• Finally, apply your gel polish and your top coat.
• For more specific directions check out the Video Below.

When you fill Gel X nails you can use Polygel, Builder Gels, Hard Gels, or Rubber Base Gels. Now I use rubber base gels because it is super easy to use.

You can click here to see the price a rubber base gel on Amazon that works perfectly to fill Gel X Nails.

Or you can click here to learn more about Rubber Base Gels.

Video of How to Fill Gel X Nails Using Rubber Base Gel

Video of How to Fill Gel X with a Builder Gel

Related Articles:

Gel X Nail Allergies: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent

The post How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home with Video Guide appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Gel X Nails are one of the best forms of gel nails available, especially for beginners who are now learning to make nail extensions. This is because they are super easy to apply.

But one of the drawbacks I have noticed with Gel X nails is that they can be prone to lifting and even chipping prematurely.

So, that’s why in this article I will share 8 Tips on How to make your Gel X Nails last longer without lifting or chipping prematurely.

How Long Will Gel X Nails Last

You can expect Gel X nails to last for around 4 weeks, once they were applied correctly. They can last much longer if they are not exposed to harsh environments but will still need a fill-in after 3-4 weeks.

But sometimes their lifespan can be less especially if the nails were frequently under a lot of strain and exposed to chemicals like detergents.

If your gel X nails last more than 3-4 weeks you will need a fill, you can click here to learn How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home with a Video Guide

Related Articles:

Gel X Nails vs Acrylic- Differences & Which One is Better

Gel X vs Polygel- Which is Stronger & Easier to Apply

Hard Gel vs Gel X – Differences & Which is Better

1- Get the Sizing of your Gel X Nails Right

One of the main mistakes that I see a lot of beginners make when working with Gel X nails is that they aren’t good at getting the sizing right.

You see if you choose nails that are too big then they can overlap at the edges and with your cuticles which can lead to lifting and if they are too small they just won’t look right.

Now from my experience, most gel X kits don’t usually come with your exact fit but if it does then yay congrats. And if it doesn’t then take one that is slightly bigger and then file the edges until they fit you perfectly.

Check out my article on the Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails

2- File the inside of your Gel X Nails

When working with Gel X nails I always file the inside of gel nails specifically targeting where they sit on your nails.

You can use either a medium grit nail file or a sanding band if you have a nail drill. This roughens the surface up and allows the gel glue to better grip and hold onto the gel x nails.

If you don’t file them the smooth shiny surface of the gel nails will not bond well with the gel glue thus increasing the chances of them lifting.

I see some brands of gel x nails come pre-filed and already etched but I always take my sanding band to gently file them a bit more.

You can click here for the nail drill that I recommend for beginners on Amazon, it’s affordable, and easy to use yet gets the job done.

Or if you want you can click here to get a 100/180 grit nail file. Use the 180 grit for filing your nails before application.

Video of How to Prevent Gel X Nails from Lifting

I highly recommend checking this video out, it will show you step-by-step how to apply your Gel X nails to prevent lifting.

3- File Your Nails & Push Back Your Cuticles

One of the most important things that you need to do to prevent lifting of your Gel X nails is to ensure that your cuticles and nails were prepped correctly this allows the gel to adhere better to your nails.

1. Firstly you need to use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles, if your cuticles are tough you can soak them in some warm soapy water for a few minutes. If you don’t push back your cuticles the gel X nails will rest on your cuticles instead of your nail plate and thus be prone to lifting.

2. Next, File your nails with a medium grit nail file, a 180 grit will work. This helps to remove any dead cuticle skin on the nails and works to roughen your nails to allow the gel to grip onto the nail plate.

3. Clean your nails with a cotton pad soaked in either acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any dust, dirt, or oil.

You can click here to read the benefits of Pushing Back Your Cuticles.

4- Apply a Dehydrator and a Nail Primer

Once your nails and cuticles have been prepped I highly recommend applying a coat of a dehydrator and then a thin coat of nail primer.

For me, both a dehydrator and a primer are essential when working with Gel X nails. Dehydrators work to remove oil and any moisture on your nails both of which will prevent the gel from adhering.

Whilst a Primer works either by etching the nails allowing the gel to grip onto the nail plate better or by working as double-sided tape to help further glue the gel onto the nails.

The primer and dehydrator that I use with Gel X nails is Mia Secrets, you can click here to see them on Amazon.

Also, check out my article on A Homemade DIY Substitute For a Nail Primer & Dehydrator

5- Apply a coat of nail primer under the gel x nails

Before applying the Gel X nails I recommend applying a thin coat of your nail primer under the Gel Nails. I have found that this helps to make the gel bond better to your gel X nails.

You can click here to read my article on What are Nail Primers & Dehydrators- How & When to Apply

6- Apply enough gel adhesive under the Gel X & ensure they are fully cured

Once both your nails and the gel x nails have been prepped you can proceed with the application. Now in this step, you are going to be using the gel to bond the gel x nails with your natural nails.

Some brands call the gel; extender gel or gel glue but they are all the same thing and if you don’t have any a thick builder gel can work too.

• Firstly you need to apply a thin coat of the gel onto your nails like a base coat and then cure for 30 seconds.
• Do not wipe away the sticky layer this layer will help to bond everything better
• Next, apply a thick layer of the gel under the Gel X nails and slide them onto the nails you will see the gel spread out to cover the entire nail.
• Then Flash cure them for 30 seconds with your small nail lamp.
• Once all the nails are on, cure all of them for 60 seconds under a large UV nail lamp.

Ensure you apply enough gel to the gel x nails if you apply too little it will leave gaps between the Gel X nails and your natural nails which makes the manicure very weak.

For Gel X application I always say it is best to apply too much gel than too little. The worst thing that happens if you apply too much gel is that it would seep out at the corners which can be cleaned up before curing with a cotton swab soaked with rubbing alcohol.

Also after applying all of the Gel X nails I always cure them again with a larger and more powerful UV nail lamp for 60 seconds. This will ensure they are cured completely. Flash curing does not cure completely.

You can click here to learn more about Gel X Glue or Extender Gel.

Related Article – Gel X Nail Allergies: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent

7- File your Gel X nails & Apply Nail Primer before applying gel polish

To ensure that your gel polish or nail polish doesn’t peel or chip from your Gel X nails. I recommend:

• Filing your Gel X nails with a medium grit nail file to roughen them up and remove the sheen allowing the polish to adhere better.
• Then clean them by wiping them down with a cotton pad soaked with rubbing alcohol
• Next, apply a thin coat of nail primer
• Then Apply your gel polish
• And finally apply a gel top coat to seal and protect your manicure.

8- Avoid Exposing Your Gel X Manicure to Harsh Environments

One of the easiest things you can do to ensure your Gel X nails last extra long is to care for them. These are the tips that I try to do when wearing Gel X Nails:

• Always wear gloves when dealing with soap and detergent such as when cleaning or doing the dishes. Detergents, soap, and bleach will wear away at your manicures.
• Never use your nail extension as a tool such as to open things with or for typing. This will put pressure and strain on them and lead to lifting.
• Avoid exposing your Gel X manicure to high temperatures. When cooking keep your nails away from flames or steam.
• Keep your manicure moisturized with an oil or cream this will prevent them from drying out.

9- Invest in Good Quality Gel X Nails

Not all Gel X nails are created equal. Cheap, low-quality nails will not last long and will be prone to chipping.

Apres nails are probably the best quality-wise but will cost you a hand and a leg. But they are the best made with durable and long-lasting materials. You can click here to see the price for a set on Amazon.

Now if you are looking for a more affordable yet good-quality Gel X Kit then consider Modelones. What I love about them is that they come pre-filed and etched which reduces the amount of work that you need to do.

You can click here to see the price for a Modelones Gel X Kit.

The post 9 Tips to Make Gel X Nails Last Longer & Prevent Lifting appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Both Polygel and Gel X nails can easily be used to DIY nail extensions at home. They were designed to be easy and quick to apply especially for beginners without much experience with nail products.

But which one will last longer, be easier to apply, and be safer for your nails?

I have been using both Polygel Nails and Gel X nails for many years now and have spoken to a lot of people who have used both and this is what I have found.

Differences Between Polygel & Gel X Nails

Gel X nails are premade full-covered gel tips that are glued onto your nails with a UV-cured gel. Gel X nails are similar to press on nails except they are made of clear gel so they can be glued onto your nails with UV gel.

Whilst, Polygel is a very thick gel that is used to build out the nails and then cured and hardened with a UV nail lamp. Polygel is thicker than conventional builder gel and has a consistency more similar to acrylic.

Both Polygel and Gel X nails are classified as a form of Gel Manicure this is because they both require a UV nail lamp to cure and set.

I highly recommend checking out my article on the Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails

Related Articles:

Hard Gel vs Gel X – Differences & Which is Better

Gel X Nails vs Acrylic- Differences & Which One is Better

Comparing Polygel to Gel X

• Polygel is more durable and long-lasting
• Gel X nails are easier to apply, especially for beginners
• Polygel tends to look and feel better
• Gel X nails are easier to remove
• Gel X nails are safer for your nails be less damaging
• Both Polygel and Gel X come with the risks of exposing your fingers and hands to strong UV light.

Related Articles –

How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home with Video Guide

What is Extend Gel /Gel X Glue: How to Use & Alternatives

1- Polygel is more durable & long-lasting

This will vary greatly depending on the brand that you use but from my experience, Polygel nails are more durable and will last longer when compared to Gel X nails.

I have noticed the biggest issue with Gel X nails compared to other types of extensions is that they are more prone to lifting especially if you don’t apply enough gel to adhere them onto the nails.

Now both Gel X nails and Polygel nails once applied correctly can give you 4 weeks of wear easily but this will vary based on the brand that you use, your lifestyle, and how well you take care of them.

To make your Gel X nails last longer, check out my 9 Tips to Make Gel X Nails Last Longer & Prevent Lifting

You can click here to read my tips on How to Make Polygel Nails Last Longer.

2- Gel X Nails are Easier to Apply

Gel X nails are way easier to apply when compared to Polygel especially if you are a beginner. This is because Gel X nails don’t require you to actually build or make the nails since they are premade.

All you need to do is apply the gel glue, then apply the Gel X nails and then cure.

The biggest hassle with Gel X nails is picking out the right size and you might have to do some amount of filing to get it to fit right.

Polygel nails on the other hand will require you to have to actually make or build out the nails which for most beginners will take a while to master, When I first tried Polygel I found it easy to use but I have years of experience with these kinds of products.

Now because of its thick consistency, Polygel, from my experience, is easier to work with when compared to other builder and hard gels. You can click here to see the different ways to apply Polygel Nails.

Video of How to apply Gel X Nails

3- Polygel Looks Better & Feels More Natural

In my opinion, once applied correctly Polygel nails will have a more natural and light feeling when compared to Gel X Nails. I think this comes from the fact that Polygel is built with your nails giving it a more natural feel.

One of the drawbacks of Gel X nails is that they only come in transparent or clear and are not available in other colors. So they cannot be used by themselves for a colored manicure and will need to be used with gel polish.

Whilst Polygel comes in different colors and is also available in transparent, this allows Polygel by itself to create brilliant manicures, although you can use polygel with other nail polishes.

4- Gel X Nails are Easier to Remove

Gel X Nails tend to be easier to remove when compared to Polygel. From my experience, Gel X requires less soaking in acetone to come off.

Though this varies with the brand, some Polygel nails come off very easily whilst others require a lot of effort.

Gel X nails are soak-off meaning you can remove them with acetone and some brands of Polygel are also soak-off but you need to read instructions from the brand to ensure that it is.

You can click here to read my article on the 3 Ways How to Safely Remove Gel X Nails at Home

And you can click here to check out 3 Quick & Easy Ways How to Remove Polygel Nails at Home

5- Gel X Nails tend to be Safer for Your Nails

Most damages to your nails occur due to improper application or removal. And because Gel X nails are easier to remove means that there is a smaller chance of your natural nails getting damaged when compared to Polygel.

It’s important to note that both Polygel and Gel X nails can be completely safe for your natural nails once they have been applied and removed correctly.

I have been working with both Polygel and Gel X for many years now and have yet to have any nail damage occur.

Related Articles:

Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails

6- Health Risks

Both Polygel and Gel X nails come with the risks of overexposure to strong UV light during the curing process.

Several studies have shown that strong UV light like those from nail lamps can potentially cause skin ailments like cancer. Thankfully you can easily protect your skin by applying sunscreen on your hands and fingers or by wearing manicure gloves.

I always wear my manicure gloves before doing any gel manicures and I recommend that you do the same. You can click here to learn more about manicure gloves.

And here for my Tips on How to Protect Your Hands from Nail Lamps.

Related Articles:

Gel X Nail Allergies: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent

The post Gel X vs Polygel- Which is Stronger & Easier to Apply appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Gel X nails are amazing, from my experience, not only are they easy to DIY at home but they are also long-lasting and durable.

But how do they measure up to acrylic nails the original nail extension?

So in this article, we are going to be comparing Gel X nails against Acrylic Nails to see which one is right for you.

Differences between Acrylic nails & Gel X Nails

The main difference between Acrylic nails and Gel X nails is how they are applied.

Acrylic Nails are applied by mixing acrylic liquid with acrylic powder to create an acrylic bead which is then used to build out your acrylic nails.

Whilst Gel X Nails are premade full-covered gel nails that are glued onto your natural nails using gel glue that needs to be cured under a UV nail lamp for the gel x nails to adhere to your nails.

Related Articles:

Gel X vs Polygel- Which is Stronger & Easier to Apply

Hard Gel vs Gel X – Differences & Which is Better

Comparing Gel X Nails Vs Acrylic

• Gel X nails are safer & less damaging to your natural nails
• Acrylic nails are stronger and long-lasting
• Both acrylic and gel X can create identical-looking manicures
• But acrylic nails tend to feel lighter and more natural
• Gel X nails come with the risks of strong UV light exposure. But has a lower scent.
• Acrylic nails come with higher risks of skin irritation & inhaling acrylic fumes
• Gel X nails are easier to remove

1- Gel X nails are less damaging to your natural nails

One of the biggest advantages that Gel X has over acrylic nails is that on average Gel X will be safer and less damaging to your natural nails.

This is because Gel X nails:

• Are Way Easier to Remove when compared to acrylic – Most damage to your natural nails is done by incorrect removal or application and since acrylic nails are tougher to remove they are more likely to damage your nails.
• Gel X nail use gel base coats during application which will help to protect the nails during the removal process.

It’s important to note that once applied and removed correctly both acrylic nails and gel x nails won’t damage or hurt your natural nails.

I have been working with Acrylic nails and Gel X nails for many years now and anytime damages do occur it is always because of poor application or incorrect removal not from the manicure products themselves.

Related Articles –

Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails

How Acrylic Ruin Your Nails & Tips to Prevent Damages

Gel Nail Extensions Vs Acrylic Nails

2- Acrylic Nails are more Durable & Long-Lasting

Acrylic nails are stronger, more durable, and will last you a longer time than Gel X nails.

So if your main focus is getting the strongest and most long-lasting manicure then your best bet is with acrylic nails which can last for 6-8 weeks without damaging or lifting. You will of course need a fill-in every 2-3 weeks or so.

You can click here to learn about How long you can expect acrylic nails to last & some tips to make them last longer.

Gel X nails are pretty good too and can easily last for 5 weeks and even longer depending on the brand and how well you take care of them. But from my experience, they are more prone to lifting when compared to acrylic nails or conventional hard gel nails.

To make your Gel X nails last longer, check out my 9 Tips to Make Gel X Nails Last Longer & Prevent Lifting

Related Articles –

How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home with Video Guide

What is Extend Gel /Gel X Glue: How to Use & Alternatives

3- Acrylic Nails Feel More Natural

Acrylic nails and Gel X nails will look identical when they are applied. But after trying both of them I think Acrylic nails tend to have a more lighter and natural feel.

I think this is because acrylic nails once applied correctly are built to the shape of your nails which makes them feel a bit more natural, whilst Gel X nails are premade.

Acrylic nails when applied incorrectly usually by using too much product can also feel bulky and unnatural.

For a great more natural-feeling product I recommend Dip Powder – click here to learn about Dip Nails Vs Acrylic.

4- Health Risks of Gel X Nails Vs Acrylic Nails

Both Gel X nails and acrylic nails do have health risks.

The main potential health risks that acrylic nails have is either from skin irritation usually an allergic reaction from the acrylic liquid going onto your skin or from inhaling the acrylic fumes during application which can affect your lungs.

Thankfully these risks can easily be avoided by just wearing a mask during application and by using safe acrylic products.

You can click here to learn more about the Dangers of Acrylic nails & How to prevent them.

Whilst the main health risk that Gel X nails come with is the exposure to strong UV light during the curing process. And studies have shown that repeated exposure to strong UV light can damage your skin and even potentially lead to skin cancer.

Now you can easily protect your skin by either wearing strong sunscreen on your hands and fingers or by wearing manicure gloves.

You can click here to read my article on Tip on How to Protect Hands from UV Nail Lamps

5- Gel X Nails are Easier to Apply

Gel X nails are really easy to apply especially when compared to acrylic nails which require a lot of practice to get right.

This is because Gel X nails come premade and just need to be glued onto your natural nails. Gel X also has a lower scent profile so your house won’t smell like strong chemicals.

Whilst with Acrylic nails you need to mix the liquid and powder at the right ratio and then build out the nail before it hardens. You can click here to see the different ways to apply Acrylic Nails.

Acrylic also has a stronger scent when compared to Gel X this is because the acrylic liquid evaporates quickly.

You check out the video below to see how easy it is to work with Gel X nails.

6- Gel X Nails are Easier to Remove

From my experience, Gel X nails are easier to remove when compared to acrylic nails. Even though the removal process is roughly the same for both nail products.

To remove either Gel X or Acrylic nails, you need to file off the top layer and then soak in the acetone.

Now I have noticed that most brands of Gel X nails are easier to file off and soak off faster when compared to acrylic nails.

You can check out the article below to see how to remove both types of manicures:

3 Ways How to Safely Remove Gel X Nails at Home

Ways How to Remove Acrylic Nails at Home

Related Articles:

Gel X Nail Allergies: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent

The post Gel X Nails vs Acrylic- Differences & Which One is Better appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

Gel X is one of the more recent innovations in the manicure world and I absolutely love them. This is because they are very easy to DIY and are really durable and long-lasting.

But how do Gel X manicures measure up to Hard Gel manicures?

So in this article, I am going to explain the differences and pros and cons of both systems to help you make an informed choice.

Differences Between Hard Gel & Gel X

The 2 main differences between Hard Gel Nails and Gel X nails are:

1. Gel X Nails are applied onto your nails by using full-covered gelly tips. Whilst Hard Gel Nails need to be built out using a thick gel on top of a nail form or tip.

2. Gel X nails can be soaked-off meaning they can be removed by using acetone whilst Hard Gel needs to be filed off usually with a nail drill.

Both Hard Gel and Gel X nails are used to make durable and long-lasting nail extensions.

You can check out these other articles:

How Gel X Nails Compare to Acrylic Nails.

Gel X vs Polygel- Which is Stronger & Easier to Apply

Related Articles:

Polygel vs Soft & Hard Gel – Differences & Which is Better

Hard Gel Extensions: How to Apply, Benefits & Risks

Which one is better & safer for nails

Once applied and removed correctly, Gel X nails tend to be better and safer for your nails when compared to hard gel manicures. This is because Gel X nails are:

• Easier to remove meaning it’s less likely to damage your nails during removal which is the most likely time you can damage your nails.
• And Gel X nails don’t use any nail glue that can potentially damage your nails.

It’s important to note both types of manicures can be completely safe for your nails. I have worked with both Gel X and Hard Gel for years now and they have never caused damage to my nails or my clients.

But Hard Gel manicures are a bit more tricky to work with and remove, so there is a higher chance of them damaging your nails.

Related Article – Pros, Cons & Side Effects of Gel X – Can it Damage Nails

Which One Will Last Longer

Hard Gel tends to be more durable and long-lasting capable of lasting 4-5 weeks without lifting, chipping, or peeling. They are also stain-resistant so manicures made of hard gel won’t get stained by things like; food dyes, fabric dyes, and hair and skin dyes.

Gel X nails are very strong and durable but not as equivalent to hard gel. Gel X nails will last around 4 weeks.

This is why if you are looking for a very strong and durable manicure I would recommend Hard Gel over Gel X.

Now the strength and durability of both Gel X and Hard Gel will vary greatly depending on the brand and how well they are applied. I have seen Hard gel nails that weren’t applied well start to lift within a week.

That’s why it is so important to apply your manicures correctly. You can click here to see how to correctly apply hard gel extensions.

To make your Gel X nails last longer, check out my 9 Tips to Make Gel X Nails Last Longer & Prevent Lifting

Related Article –

10 Tips to Make Gel Nails Last Longer – No More Lifting

A Guide to Gel Pedicures – Pros & Cons, Cost & How to DIY

Which one is Easier to Apply

Gel X nails are much easier to apply and very easy to DIY apply at home. This is because they come premade and just need to be glued onto your nails.

Whilst Hard Gel requires a lot of work to apply the gel and build out the nails. Hard Gel also will require some amount of practice before mastering it. I personally took several weeks of practice and training before truly getting the hang of hard gel application.

Related Article – Gel Extensions vs Acrylic – Which is Better & Last Longer

Video of How to Apply Gel X Nails

Video of How to Apply Hard Gel Nails

Which one looks & feels better

Both Hard Gel and Gel X nails at the end after application will look and feel the same.

But how they feel will vary based on the brand used, some brands will give you a more bulky and heavier feel. This is why it’s important to pick high-quality brands.

Related Article: Gel Overlay: Cost, How to DIY – vs Gel Polish vs Extensions

Which one is Easier to Remove

Gel X nails are way easier to remove when compared to Hard Gel, especially if you are a beginner with not much experience using a nail drill.

Gel X nails can be removed by either soaking them off with acetone or filed off with a nail drill. I usually file off the top coat and then soak off the rest of the Gel X with acetone.

I have been removing hard gel manicures with my nail drill for many years now so for me removal is super easy, but beginners will struggle to remove them.

You can click here to see the 2 Ways How to Remove Hard Gel Nails.

And click here to see the 3 Ways How to Remove Gel X Nails.

Related Article:

How to Fill Gel X Nails at Home with Video Guide

What is Extend Gel /Gel X Glue: How to Use & Alternatives

Gel X Nail Allergies: How to Spot, Treat & Prevent

The post Hard Gel vs Gel X – Differences & Which is Better appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.

I have been working with hard gel nails for many years now and the main question that I get is Can you DIY remove them at home? and then followed by how to remove it.

Thankfully you can easily remove hard gel at home. So in this article, I am going to:

• Guide on the 2 different ways to remove hard gel nails and
• Share with you some tips to keep your natural nails safe during removal.

Related Article – Hard Gel Extensions: How to Apply, Benefits & Risks

Can You Use Acetone to Remove Hard Gel

You cannot remove hard gels by soaking them off with acetone like how you would usually remove acrylic or gel polish.

This is because hard gel is completely non-porous meaning that it cannot absorb chemicals like acetone. This also makes hard gel stain-resistant.

Instead, hard gel nails must be filed off with either a hand nail file or a Nail Drill.

Related Articles:

How Much Do Gel Nails Cost & How Much to Remove Them

4 Easy Ways to Remove Gel Polish at Home Without Acetone

BIAB Gel: How to Remove at Home & When & How to Infill

How to Remove Hard Gel Nails Using a Nail Drill

What you are going to need:

• Nail Drill/ E-File
• 100/180-grit hand nail file
• Nail clipper

Method:

1. Firstly take a nail clipper and remove any excess length from the gel nails.
2. This reduces the amount of filing required
3. Next, use a shortening bit on your nail drill to file off the gel. Use gentle quick sliding motions
4. And try to file in one direction. I usually file from the cuticle area of the nail to the tips.
5. Once you have filed enough and have reached the base coat layer meaning you can see your natural nails
6. You can then take the 100-grit part of the hand file and then file off the rest of the gel.
7. Finally, you can use the 180-grit part to buff and smoothen out your nails.

I have a short video below that will show you how to file them off.

Related Article – 10 Tips to Make Gel Nails Last Longer – No More Lifting

Video of How to Use a Nail Drill to Remove Hard Gel Nails

Recommended Nail Drill

My favorite nail drill for beginners is Melody Susie’s Drill – which is affordable yet powerful enough to remove Hard Gel.

It might not be as powerful as those used in salons so it might take a bit longer to file off the hard gel but it’s perfect if you are not yet confident with a nail drill.

The Melody Susie’s Drill also comes with a bunch of bits that will work perfectly for hard gel. You can click here to see the price of one on Amazon.

You can click here to see a 100/180 grit hand file that I use for hard gel.

How to Remove Hard Gel without a Nail Drill

You can remove hard gel without using a Nail Drill or E-File. You can do so by manually filing it with a coarse hand file.

This method will take a long time but if you have patience you can slowly file away your hard gel.

• Firstly use a nail clipper to remove any excess length on your gel nails
• Next, take the coarse part of your nail file and then file the gel and try to file in one direction.
• File until you reach your natural nail.
• You can switch to a lower grit nail file such as a 180 grit to buff out your nails.
• You can check out the video below to see how it’s done.

You can click here to see a 100/180 grit nail file that I use when working with hard gel nails.

Video of How to Remove Hard Gel without a Nail Drill

Tips to Safely Remove Hard Gel Without Damaging Your Nails

1- Do not let the nail drill work in one area for too long

If you let the nail drill idle in one area for too long it will cause overheating and even burning. So instead constantly move the nail drill across the nails.

2- Use Light Motions

Once you have a good nail drill you don’t need to push down the nail drill instead you just need to gently press or glide it across the gel.

3- Use the correct Nail Bit or Nail File

If you are using a nail drill you will need to use a nail bit that is made for shortening or removal most nail drill kits will have them labeled.

Now if you are manually filing the hard gel off using a hand file then I recommend using a 100 grit nail file. This is coarse enough to quickly remove the hard gel.

Other higher-grit nail files will take a longer time to work.

4- Switch from a nail drill to a hand file if you are a beginner

I recommend if it’s your first time using a nail drill then you should just remove some of the gel with it and do some of the work with a good hand file.

5- Use Colored Hard Gel During the Application

By using colored hard gel allows you during removal to more easily spot when you have reached the base coat or natural nails.

This allows you to stop filing and thus prevents damaging your nails.

6- Apply a Good Thick Gel Base Coat

Using a good thick base coat will help to protect your natural nails during removal since it acts as a buffer to protect your nails from being filed.

What you can do is use a thick base coat maybe a rubber gel base and then apply your hard gel. Now when it’s time for removing them you can file off the hard gel and then soak off the rubber base gel with acetone.

You can click here to learn more about rubber base gel coats.

7- Wear a Mask or Use a Dust Collector

Filing off hard gel nails will create a lot of dust that you don’t want to inhale. This is why I always wear a face mask during manicure removals.

Also, if you do removals often at home you can also consider investing in a dust collector which sucks up dust whilst they are filed off. This helps to keep your room nice and clean and really saves you time when cleaning up.

The post 2 Ways to Remove Hard Gel at Home (With & Without Drill) appeared first on Easy Nail Tech.