Gel Nails

The world of Gels is quite new to people. I'd like to educate you guys so you know a little more bout it. When you ask for a gel manicure, what are you getting? 

If they're using a liquid and a powder, it's not gel. Most of the time Gel is odorless, and it looks a lot like hair gel. It has to be cured with a light and most gels have a sticky surface that's left behind after it's been cured. 

There are several different types of gel, but they can be broken down into 2 categories. Soft gel and hard gel. 

Hard Gel:

• Adds length to the nail
• Non-flexible or rigid
• Must be filed off by a professional to prevent damage to the natural nail

Soft Gel:

• Is flexible
• Adds no length
• Can be soaked off in acetone
• Creates a polished look, that doesn't chip for 3+ weeks (depending on the brand)

So what about Shellac? Shellac is a brand of soft gel. It is a mix of polish and gel to create a "power polish." This gives you the chip free manicure that lasts 2 to 3 weeks, but since it incorporates polish, it doesn't have the lasting power of a true gel.  

I exclusively use Young Nails product, and their soft gel is called mani•Q. It is a true gel with pigments creates the color. This provides the longer lasting manicure.  


If you have further questions feel free to contact me!