Polygel Overlay on Short Nails- How to Apply, Pros & Cons

Using Polygel is one of the easiest ways to create very long and strong extensions. But did you know that they can also create great overlays even on very short nails?

I have been using Polygels to make overlays for many years now and I actually recommend it to beginners. This is because of easy it is to apply especially when compared to acrylic.

That’s why in this article I am going to guide you through the pros and cons of using Polygel as an Overlay and importantly show you How to Apply it.

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What is a Polygel Overlay

A Polygel Overlay is where polygel is applied directly to your natural nails without using nail tips, nail forms, or dual forms to extend the length of the nails.

Overlays are great for:

Protecting your natural nails to allow them to grow out without breaking
Shaping your nails especially if your natural nails are too thin and weak to be filed.
A more long-lasting manicure compared to a regular nail polish manicure.

Polygel Overlays also tend to feel lighter and more natural when compared to extensions.

You can click here to learn more about Overlay Nails and what they are used for.

How to do Polygel Overlays on Short Nails

The first thing you need to do is prep your nails, start by pushing back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher. Then use a medium grit nail file and gently buff your nails

Next, clean your nails with a cotton pad soaked in rubbing alcohol.

Then apply a coat of a dehydrator and a coat of nail primer followed by applying a gel base coat and then cure for 20 seconds.

Now apply a small bead of the Polygel on your natural nails near the cuticle area.

Wet your brush with slip solution and then gently stroke the Polygel over your nails, Now once you are satisfied with how it looks, cure it under your UV-led nail lamp. You can see how it’s done in the video below.

Next, buff your Polygel nails to smoothen them out, and then file the edges to shape them to your liking.

Finally, clean your nails by wiping them with a cotton pad soaked in rubbing alcohol. Then apply a gel top coat and cure.

Video of How to Make Overlay with Polygel

Pros of Using Polygel as an Overlay

1 – Very Easy to Apply

I have found Polygel to be much easier to apply as an overlay when compared to Acrylic or even some builder gels. This is especially true if you are a beginner.

Polygel is better than acrylic because when using acrylic to make an overlay you have to work fast before the acrylic hardens. Whilst with Polygel you can take your time and mold it till you are satisfied and then cure it.

Polygel tends to be better than hard builder gel for overlays too. This is because Polygel has a thicker texture which makes it easier to mold. You see Hard Builder gels tend to be thin and runny and thus a bit harder to work and sometimes you even need to apply multiple layers.

2- Durable and Long-Lasting

Polygel once applied correctly can last 4 weeks or more as overlays. They are also extremely tough and would protect your natural nails from breaking, chipping, or being damaged easily.

This will allow your natural nails to grow out without you having to worry about them breaking easily.

3- Allows You to Easily Shape Your Nails

Polygel can allow you to easily create thick overlays similar to acrylic. Thick overlays are especially great since they allow you to shape your nails to exactly how you want them to be.

Note: You are not limited to just creating thick overlays you can also make them thin by controlling the amount of Polygel you use.

4- Can be used to Extend Nails a little without tips or forms

I have found that because most brands of Polygel tend to have a very thick formula you can even use it to make a small extension without using forms or tips. This is especially useful if you have very short nails.

To do so just don’t use too much slip solution to keep the Polygel extra thick. You can see how it’s done in the Video below.

Cons of Using Polygel as an Overlay

1- Requires a UV Nail Lamp to Cure

You will need a UV nail lamp to apply Polygel and when used without any protection for your fingers and hands the UV light can affect your skin. This is why if you are worried about UV exposure maybe use some form of protection or avoid nail products like gels and Polygel.

You can use manicure gloves or sunscreen to protect your skin. Click here to read my tips on How to Protect Yourself From Nail Lamps.

2- Requires a bit more Work to Apply Compared to BIAB or Rubber Base Gels

From my experience, Builder Gels like Rubber Bases and BIAB tend to a bit a bit easier to use to create overlays. This is because they have a thin formula and thus can be applied like nail polish.

Now these types of builder gels are not as strong and durable as Polygel. Polygel is best if you want to shape your nails.

Check out these articles to learn more about these builder gels:

What’s BIAB: Are they good for Nails, How to DIY, Best BIAB

Rubber Base Gel vs Builder Gel: Differences & Which to Use

Polygel Slip Solution What is it & What Can You Use Instead

Can You Paint on Polygel Nails – Easy Polygel Tips & Tricks

Polygel vs Acrylic: Whats the Difference & Which is Better

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

Polygel Base Coat- Is it Needed, Type to Use & Best Brands

6 Reasons Why Polygel Breaks or Lifts- How to Fix & Avoid

3 Easy Ways to Fill Polygel Nails at Home (w/Video)

3 Quick & Easy Ways How to Remove Polygel Nails at Home