Is Curing Gel Under Opaque Nails a Nail Hazard?

Question: I’ve noticed that some people are using opaque, full-coverage nails with gel products like base gel or builder in a bottle. I’ve informed them that the opaqueness of these nails might prevent proper curing of the gel, leaving uncured gel underneath. I believe this is correct, but I’m struggling to find concrete information to support this claim, aside from the general knowledge that light must penetrate the gel layers for a complete cure. Can you help clarify this for me?

Expert: Of course! You’ve raised an important concern about the use of opaque, full-coverage nails in conjunction with gel products. Your understanding is indeed correct, and I can provide you with some insights into this matter.

Challenges of Using Opaque Nails with Gel Products

When it comes to gel products, particularly those that require UV or LED curing, the key factor is proper exposure to the curing light. Opaque or fully covered nails can pose a challenge because they act as a barrier, blocking the UV or LED light from reaching the gel product underneath. As a result, the gel may not cure properly, leading to several potential issues.

It is also important to remember that a gel coating is solid at only 50% of its required cure time, so do not fall into a trap of thinking because it appears to be solid, and there is no seeping residue, that a coating is fully cured. Add this to the risk of the opaque tip inhibiting the penetration of the wavelength of light, a nail professional will never be certain that the gel applied beneath is of the correct application thickness and achieved its proper cure.

One of the primary concerns is that the gel might not adhere securely to the natural nail when curing is incomplete. This can result in premature lifting, where the gel layer detaches from the nail, leaving room for moisture, bacteria, or fungi to enter. Additionally, incomplete curing can result in weakened nails and may even cause discoloration or yellowing.

Using Clear Tips and a Double-Cure Approach with Gel Products

To address this challenge, it’s recommended to use clear tips when working with gel products. Clear tips allow the UV or LED light to penetrate and ensure proper curing of the gel. Moreover, you can consider a double-cure approach, which involves curing the gel both before and after attaching the tip. This double-cure method helps confirm that the tip hasn’t obstructed the curing process and ensures a secure and long-lasting bond.

In summary, your concerns are valid, and it’s essential to choose clear tips and adopt a double-cure technique when using gel products to achieve successful and durable nail enhancements.

FAQ’s

Question: Why is it important to avoid using opaque nails with gel products?
Answer: Proper curing of gel products is crucial for strong and durable nail enhancements. Opaque nails can block UV or LED light, hindering the curing process and potentially leading to issues like premature lifting and weakened nails.

Question: What’s the recommended solution for using gel products with opaque nails?
Answer: To overcome this challenge, it’s advised to use clear tips when working with gel products. Clear tips allow the curing energy to penetrate, ensuring proper curing. Additionally, employing a double-cure approach, curing both before and after attaching the tip, can ensure that the curing process is not obstructed.

Question: Can incomplete curing of gel products lead to nail problems?
Answer: Yes, incomplete curing can result in various nail problems, including weakened nails, premature lifting of the gel, and potential discoloration or yellowing. Ensuring proper curing is essential for achieving flawless and long-lasting nail enhancements.