What is better gel polish or varnish: differences and features

Well-groomed beautiful hands with bright long nails are the adornment of any woman. Today, every self-respecting and self-loving girl regularly gets her nails in a beauty salon or at home. To cover the nail plate, most of the fair sex choose gel, due to its durability and glossy shine.

Gel coating and nail are often confused due to the similarity of the end result: nails look beautiful and shiny. The design of the nail plate is different for everyone, depending on the individual wishes of the client.

How to create the perfect coating? All stages of applying gel polish

So, to create the perfect coating, you need to correctly apply all the materials and prepare the nail. This is exactly what we will talk about now. How to make correction with gel polish?

1. Preparatory stage. First of all, you need to get your nails done. There are only 3 types: classic, combined and hardware. Each of them has its own special rules and techniques. If you want to make the coating yourself, it is better to choose the first type. To begin, you need to immerse your hands in warm water for a couple of minutes to make the skin softer. Afterwards, using a pusher or an orange stick, you need to lift the cuticle and remove small particles of skin. Next, you need to cut off the excess cuticle using sharp scissors. After completing the manicure process, you need to shape the nail and remove the top layer using a soft file.

   

2. Applying the base. The most important step, which creates a hard coating, ensuring good wear. The base is applied in two layers. First we apply a small amount of material, then we need to take a drop and place it in the center, then carefully distribute it to the sides. To create the perfect highlight, you need to turn the nail over and level the material.

   

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3. The final stage. At the last stage of correction with gel polish, we apply colors, designs and fix the entire manicure with a top coat that gives excellent shine.

How to create the perfect coating? All stages of applying the gel

You will never be able to get a perfect finish the first time. To achieve each stage perfectly, you need to train a lot and for a long time. So, how to cover your nails with gel yourself? Now let's find out:

1. Preparatory stage. Here you need to do the same steps: manicure, sawdust, polishing.
2. Application of material. If you do not have enough length, then we substitute special forms, pressing them tightly to the edge of the nail. The first layer should be thin, it must be dried well in a lamp. Next, you need to put a large drop of gel, which must be carefully distributed over the nail, forming the correct shape and architecture. Afterwards you need to send your hand into the lamp. Remember that we do not dry it completely, then apply a second layer and use a clothespin, which will help simulate the natural curve of the nail. As soon as the material has dried, we file the nail, removing bumps and uneven shapes. How to use gel to strengthen nails? Everything is simple, the movements are the same, but a paper form is not used.

   

3. The final stage. Here you can use both colored gels and gel polishes.

The main differences between gel polish and gel

So, what is the difference between gel nail polish and gel?

1. Density. The second version of the material is much tougher and stronger, so it must be used in extensions. If you are thinking whether or not to apply gel on short nails, then definitely yes. It will provide support for growth.
2. Plastic. Modern biogels are incredibly flexible, they help cope with imperfections in the shape of the nail. Gel polish is much softer and is a viscous liquid.
3. Release form. Typically, gel polishes are sold in elongated bottles with brushes. Gels in packaging resemble jars of cream. You definitely need to buy a brush for them.
4. Different ways to remove the coating.
5. Wearing times.
6. Purpose. Gels are more versatile; they can be used to do both extensions and strengthening.

What is gel polish and gel nail extension?

Gel polish and gel are materials for coating and extending the nail plate. Thanks to them, you can eliminate nail defects or lengthen the free edge.

How does gel polish work? Advantages and disadvantages

Gel polish is a combination of regular nail polish and bio-gel. Its dispersion medium forms a checkered component on the surface of the nail plate, due to which the material adheres. The gel polish hardens due to polymerization in an ultraviolet and LED lamp.

Gel polishes are divided into:

• reflective (characterized by quick adhesion to the nail plate, dried in a lamp);
• not reflective (applied using a catalyst).

Most often, craftsmen use reflective gel polishes, as they are easier to use.

Gel polish is suitable for those who have a dense nail structure.

The advantages of gel polish are as follows:

• relatively harmless, even during pregnancy;
• covers the nail plate with a thin layer;
• ease of application (similar to regular varnish with a brush);
• resistant to mechanical damage with proper care;
• does not have a pungent chemical odor;
• has a wide color palette;
• there is a special line of gel polishes for children, enriched with vitamins;
• retains the original appearance of the coating for a long time;
• no peeling when applied correctly;
• due to the plasticity of the material, it does not deform the nail;
• has a high polymerization rate;
• looks natural;
• has a glossy shine;
• can be easily removed by soaking with a special compound.

Among the disadvantages of using gel polish are:

• inability to adjust the shape and length of the nail;
• fades in the sun;
• cheap and low-quality material can cause allergies, rashes and respiratory problems;
• less wear resistance compared to gel coating;
• when worn for a long time, the material begins to actively absorb moisture, drying out the natural nail, and voids form on it, which damage the nail plate;
• may cause exacerbation of existing fungal infections, as well as dermatological problems;
• budget gel polishes from some manufacturers contain substances that are toxic and harmful to the body;
• drying the material in a lamp can cause discomfort and burning;
• It is not recommended to apply to long nails, as the likelihood of chipping increases;
• Wearing gel polish for a long time without interruption thins the nail.

The principle of operation of the gel. Advantages and disadvantages

Gel is a porous artificial polymer material that is used for extension and coating of natural nails. Using the gel, you can lengthen the free edge, form the desired shape and strengthen the thin nail plate.

There are such types of gel as:

• basic (gel of liquid consistency, which is necessary for better adhesion of the material to the nail plate);
• modeling (used to create the shape and increase the length of the nail);
• finishing (used to provide a glossy surface of the material).

There are also gels that combine the properties of different types of material.

Among the advantages of using the gel are the following:

• high coating strength;
• minimal negative impact on the nail structure;
• the ability to create creative designs on nails using broths, rhinestones, stones;
• correction of the shape of the nail and alignment of the plate;
• lengthening the nail plate;
• good durability of the coating on peeling nails;
• giving a healthy appearance to the cuticle by moisturizing it;
• long wear time;
• no deformation when wearing;
• economical consumption of material.

Helium coating also has its disadvantages:

• meager color palette;
• removal only by sawing;
• danger of injury when the material is chipped;
• burning sensation during polymerization in a lamp;
• under the gel, the natural nail grows faster, since the material blocks the access of oxygen;
• if performed poorly, unnatural appearance;
• extended nails are more brittle due to their length;
• Removal of the gel coating cannot be done independently;
• The gel may crack due to sudden temperature changes.

Features of materials

We found out the difference between gel nails and gel polish. Let's talk now about the features of the materials.

Gel polishes are applied in thin layers and do not thicken the nail. Moreover, with their help you can create the perfect manicure much faster. By the way, a good polish can be easily removed without damaging the nail plate.

What is the difference between gel and gel polish coating? Firstly, in the consistency of the applied product. The first material is dense, viscous, does not run away and does not spread across the nail. Secondly, the gel provides greater protection, saving nails from brittleness and cracks. Reviews say: if you want to wear a manicure for a very long time, then this material will cope with this task better. True, girls who are just starting to get acquainted with the coating process will find it difficult to use the gel, reviews warn.

What to choose - gel polish or gel?

We figured out how to apply gel to your nails. Now let’s find out when you can use this or that material:

1. Short and thin nails. Both products are equally suitable for this case. If you want to be sure of protection, then it is better to give preference to gel.
2. Pecking nails. One of the most common disorders of the nail plate, in which the nail grows downward, resembling a beak in shape. Only a gel will help solve this problem.
3. Long nails. If you constantly apply coating, then choose gel polish. After all, your nails are already quite strong, so you don’t need extra layers of material.
4. Injury. What is better - gel or gel polish? Reviews say that if the nail is injured or has undergone treatment for a fungus, then it is better to use the gel. It will protect against mechanical damage, create support for the nail and prevent microorganisms from penetrating inside.

Which is better: gel polish or polish?

It is difficult to say unequivocally what is better than shellac or classic coating. Here everyone chooses what suits them best. Gel polish has a number of its advantages and disadvantages, while regular coating has its pros and cons. Of course, shellac has more advantages, but there is one “but” - it’s high cost.

Although everything in the world is relative. After all, time also costs money. Modern women who live in a fast pace, of course, find a manicure created using gel polish more convenient.

The main tricks and features of ideal coverage

To create the perfect coating, no matter - gel or gel polish, you need to know some secrets that will help in creating a beautiful manicure:

1. Be sure to seal the ends of the nail with a top and base. This way you can avoid chips and cracks.
2. We make corrections in a timely manner. This will keep your nails healthy.
3. We use only certified products. Gel polishes and gels are artificially created materials that can cause allergies.
4. Be sure to do the alignment, modeling the architecture of the nail. When all the nails are even, with regular arches, the manicure looks much more beautiful.

Advantages and disadvantages of gel polish

Shellac (another name for this coating), like any manicure product, has its positive and negative characteristics. So its advantages are:

• quick drying – dries within a few minutes;
• easy painting - applied with a regular brush;
• strengthening of nails - the plates become stronger;
• coating durability – lasts up to three weeks;
• preservation of the original appearance until the next manicure;
• the ability to neither smudge nor chip, nor weigh down the nails;
• no unpleasant odor.

But along with the advantages, shellac also has disadvantages. They are that:

• To dry it, you need a special device - an ultraviolet lamp;
• To remove the coating you need a special product;
• it takes a lot of time to remove it;
• You cannot continuously apply gel polish; you must periodically give your nails a break;
• Possible allergy to shellac components;
• cannot be used on weak, thin nails;
• also contraindicated for diseases of the nail plates;
• not recommended for thin and sensitive cuticles;
• a small palette of colors;
• high cost of both the gel polish itself and related materials.

But beauty industry manufacturers do not stand still and every year they strive to improve something, for example, by expanding the color range of this innovative product.

How long should a good manicure last?

So, let's find out how long does a gel polish manicure last on your nails? If applied correctly and all requirements are met, the coating can last about 2 months. However, it is worth remembering that going around with one manicure is contraindicated. Firstly, this is a huge load on the nail, given the incorrect architecture. Secondly, in such cases the risk of serious injury to the plate increases. Thirdly, an old manicure looks ugly and unkempt. Moreover, men really don’t like him. They believe that with such a manicure a girl looks vulgar, especially if the nails are too long.

The ideal wearing time is 3-4 weeks; in such a short period the nail does not have time to grow too much.

Distinctive qualities of nail extensions

The nail extension procedure is carried out using special plates - tips, which can be made of plastic, paper and other materials. They are the ones that are first glued to the nail. Then the master files them to the required length and gives the necessary shape that the client wants. It is important to note that the tips contain the material from which the nail is extended; as a result, it is removed only at the end of the procedure, when the nail has already been extended and all that remains is to file and polish.

After this, the specialist, depending on the client’s wishes, paints the nails with a varnish of a certain color, makes a drawing or decorates with rhinestones. It is worth noting that this manicure is quite durable, so the natural nail is protected from any mechanical damage. The disadvantages of nail extensions include several points:

How to remove the coating correctly so as not to injure the nail?

So, let's take a look at the coating removal options:

1. Maceration. A chemical method of removing material that is only suitable for gel polishes. It is worth saying that this is one of the most harmful removal options, which is contraindicated for people prone to allergic reactions. The main advantage of soaking is that it is budget-friendly. For craftsmen, this removal option is too long. Soaking occurs in 3 stages. First, the coating is slightly filed off with a file so that the product penetrates better into the material. Then small pieces of napkins are taken, dipped in liquid, applied to the nail and wrapped tightly in foil, which prevents the product from evaporating. As soon as 10-20 minutes have passed (depending on the company), the soaked coating is removed with a pusher.

   

2. Sawing. Some people cut the material with a regular file with high abrasiveness. This option is ideal for home use. It does not cause allergies or side effects.
3. Hardware method. This method of removing material is used by manicurists. First of all, it's fast. Secondly, a lot of consumables are not spent. Thirdly, allergies and irritation do not appear.

Comparative characteristics of funds

All high-quality compositions of decorative coatings do not have a direct negative effect on the nail structure, but the application and removal procedure involves the use of aggressive solutions that contribute to delamination, drying and yellowing of the surface of the plate.

In addition, unscrupulous masters often neglect the rules of manicure, which subsequently causes problems. Therefore, it is worth listening to the reviews of clients of a certain master or using the recommendations of friends.

Types of gel polishes and gels

To understand what is better - gel or gel polish (reviews of these materials are given in the article), you need to get acquainted with their options. Let's start with the second material:

1. Classic base. The first product to be used for coating. It is usually a clear, semi-viscous liquid.
2. Rubber base. A denser, more stretchy material that is great for beginners.
3. Colored gel polish. A regular polish with a pigment that gives the nail color.
4. Top. Strengthens the coating and adds shine.

Gel options:

1. Souffle. A dense, sticky liquid resembling tar. It is applied in a thick layer, gradually leveling.
2. Biogel. This material is similar to plasticine, which, when a special liquid is added, becomes soft and plastic.

   

3. Colored gel. Usually gel-based polishes are made with glitter to make the color more saturated.

Gel polish

Gel polish is a hygienic manicure followed by a coating of colored gel polish, which lasts for several weeks without changes. Unlike regular varnish, it does not chip and does not lose its shine. You can do household chores with it and not be afraid of damage, but you still need to be careful with it. Removable with nail polish remover using foil or special caps as the free edge grows. The wearing time varies from person to person, but the original appearance lasts for 2-3 weeks , after which the regrown part does not look neat.

Manicure is performed using gel or a regular gel polish base. If desired, you can further strengthen the acrylic powder. Strengthening is suitable for girls with a thin nail plate and allows you to grow long and strong nails.

The most popular types of gels. Description and reviews

So, in the end, you need to familiarize yourself with the best brands for the production of gels:

1. RuNail. A Russian company whose product range includes many different material options. There are both colored and transparent representatives. What is better - gel or gel polish? Reviews say that RuNail products combine high quality and reasonable prices.
2. Global. Their gels are ideal for both beginners and professionals. According to reviews, the products are easy to apply and last great.

The most popular types of gel polishes

Let's talk about the best companies that produce gel polishes:

1. Uno. Their bases and tops have driven many modern nail technicians crazy. The products have ideal wearability and excellent consistency.

   

2. Grattol. There are thousands of comments on the Internet with positive ratings about the Grattol company. Manicurists say that her colored materials are incredibly pigmented and apply wonderfully. In addition, they have a large color palette and reasonable prices. Many girls especially loved polishes with glitter.

Source: fb.ru
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