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Gel polish is a type of nail polish that is cured under UV or LED light to create a hard, durable and glossy coating. It is a two-step process that involves applying a base coat, followed by the gel polish color, and then finishing with a top coat. <\/p>\n
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The gel polish is composed of a mixture of monomers, oligomers, pigments, and other additives that polymerize when exposed to light. This creates a strong bond with the natural nail, making the manicure long-lasting and resistant to chipping, peeling and cracking. <\/p>\n
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Gel polish is typically removed by soaking the nails in acetone, and is a popular choice for people looking for a low-maintenance, high-shine manicure.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_91fdc7b966faee8821243d2ea8f4ea52":"
Viscosity<\/div>
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This is a scientific description of the consistency of a product. A high viscosity describes a thick product. A low viscosity describes a thinner (or more runny) consistency. It is very relevant to the description in UV gels.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_055b266ab1e48d4f25c57b5d254c804c":"
Polymers<\/div>
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In the context of nail products, polymers are long chains of joined up monomers\/oligomers which solidify (polymerise) to create durable artificial nail coverings. All plastics are polymers but there are also many different types of polymers both synthetic and naturally occurring.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_5d9a553b829690f7eecc611184e17273":"
Solvents<\/div>
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Solvents (in the context of nail products as water is a solvent) are chemicals such as acetone, ethyl acetate, methyl acetate, butyl acetate, toluene. They are able to dissolve certain products or break their bonds. They are commonly used in nail polishes and nail polish removers. They are usually volatile and are the method used to dry nail polish as they keep the product liquid until they are exposed air and will evaporate and leave the pigments and other ingredients (such as plastisers etc) as a nail coating. They are also used in nail plate dehydrators to cleanse and degrease the nail in the preparation for a coating application.<\/p>\n
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Pathogens (with the possible exception of fungal spores) are unable to survive in a product with a high level of solvents. This is why it is safe to use nail polish on several clients without spreading any pathogens<\/p>\n
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(Also see alcohols)<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_0feaed3b66910e1ca5fc2a2031db83b4":"
Acetone<\/div>
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Acetone is a common solvent. It is used to remove nail product coatings efficiently and quickly. It is also a byproduct of metabolism within the human body.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_24d9c18b31af136f57c5a0ccde2da5d2":"
Soak Off<\/div>
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Using Acetone or another solvent (remover) to soften nail coatings (gel polish or acryl) making swift removal from the nail plate possible.<\/p>\n
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'Wraps' can be used or cotton buds and aluminum foil to hold the solvent in place.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_11533c2225a32a0a2021a4517e2c664f":"
Top Coat<\/div>
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This refers to a nail product that is the final layer of a nail coating. It can be a traditional nail polish or a UV gel polish. The formulation will allow it to withstand scratches and be tougher than colour coats. It is essential to use in UV gel polish systems but optional in traditional nail polishes. A top coat can also be used over a liquid and powder coating to give it extra shine. Top coats usually have a high shine but there are also many alternatives e.g. matte, shimmer, slightly pigmented etc<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_be3931e712d61dbc905165a4257ef0c9":"
Brush<\/div>
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There are many different brushes needed by a nail professional. e.g an L&P brush which needs to be a natural Kolinsky sable brush so it can hold the monomer liquid and pick up the polymer powder as a bead; UV gel brushes are usually nylon or other man made fibre. Nail art brushes are usually a variety of natural fibres. All have different uses and all much be kept clean to provide long usage.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_4eb428598c1d8f289e6897779124e77d":"
UV Gel<\/div>
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A nail product that cures (or polymerizes) under a UV lamp.
There are various types of UV gels, categorized by the way they can be removed, or by the way they can be used.
<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_55369511233ea7dc3ec969dc71ce48b2":"
Polish<\/div>
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Polish, also known as nail polish or nail enamel, is a cosmetic product that is applied to the nails to add color and shine. It is typically made from a combination of nitrocellulose, a solvent, and pigments or dyes.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_cf4baf2d677a071c54957b3b9c2f2c67":"
Buffer<\/div>
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There are a very wide variety of buffers used during nail services. They are available in different grit sizes: the lower the grit number the harsher the abrasive; the higher the number the softer the abrasive. They have many different constructions in what they are made of and how. Some are designed as single use, others can be washed and disinfected. Some have a rigid centre and others are made on a sponge centre.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_028573aa40ce1f3cceb26ad80ad33592":"
Cure \/ Curing<\/div>
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This is the term used to describe the polymerization process for the acrylics (whether uv gels or l&p systems) used in nail coatings. A 'proper cure' is what should be achieved which is when, at least, 80% of the coating has been polymerised. Anything less than this is considered to be 'under-cured' and can cause an allergic reaction. \"Over-curing\" would be when the nail coating is cured in a lamp that has a stronger output than what the manufacturer recommends, and it will make the nail coating brittle.<\/p>\n<\/div>","cmtt_f21bac4ddd3cda83d7acc65c060e0bb4":"
Apex<\/div>
1<\/div>\n
This is the highest point of the structure of the enhanced nail (or even a natural nail with added strength) It is the meeting of the 'c' curve and the upper arch to create the strongest structure regardless of the actual shape. Its position will depend on the specific shape and length <\/p>\n
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The apex is the highest point of an artificial nail enhancement, commonly found in sculpted nails such as acrylics or gels. It is strategically placed to provide strength and structure to the nail, ensuring durability and reducing the risk of breakage. The apex is typically located in the center of the nail or slightly off-center towards the cuticle, creating a subtle arch that follows the natural curvature of the nail bed. This arch not only reinforces the nail but also enhances its aesthetic appearance by giving it a more natural and balanced look.<\/p>\n
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Importance:<\/strong> Proper placement and formation of the apex are crucial for the longevity and health of nail enhancements. It absorbs the stresses and impacts that the nails may encounter during daily activities, acting as a protective barrier against cracks and chips. A well-crafted apex is a hallmark of professional nail artistry and is essential for maintaining the overall integrity and beauty of the nail enhancement.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>"}};
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