Nail dehydrator: which one is better for extensions and composition

Using a dehydrator

To degrease and disinfect nails during the application of decorative coating, products containing dehydrators are used. They are produced in the form of separate preparations or included in disinfectants. The bottles are equipped with an applicator with a brush, which distributes the liquid over the plate in an even layer.

A dehydrator is an indispensable tool for those who have “wet hands.”

A quality product performs the following functions:

cleanses nails of fatty traces and other contaminants;
restores the natural balance of ph plates;
disinfects the surface;
promotes strong adhesion of varnish to the nail;
prevents the development of pathogenic microflora;
removes excess moisture.

Creating a manicure without using a dehydrator can result in rapid peeling of the decorative coating. This defect is observed already in the first week of wearing nail art.

The product has the form of a colorless liquid with a slight specific aroma. The consistency is slightly viscous, but fits well on the plate. You can buy a dehydrator at any store that has a manicure section.

The scope of application of the product is not limited to nail decoration. The product is also used for extensions.

Components included in the composition

Dehydrators, which are produced in the form of separate products, are distinguished by their multicomponent composition. Each manufacturer's product formula is unique. But the base used is identical.

Acetic acid ester with butyl properties or butyl acetate acts as an organic solvent.
Fragrances and dyes are a common component that does not have the best effect on nails. When choosing a dehydrator, it is recommended to give preference to formulations without these chemical compounds or with their minimal content.
Acids are substances that promote the opening of scales. This opens a passage into the deep layers of the nail structure for the organic solvent. A common ingredient from different manufacturers is methacrylic acid in a concentration of 30-100%.
Vitamins – provide tissue nutrition and gentle care. Many manufacturers enrich the composition with valuable microelements. This fact is not a marketing ploy, but a real concern for consumers.

Most dehydrators do not contain aggressive components. This eliminates disruption of the natural microflora and destruction of the nail structure.

How to choose a nail degreaser

Types of degreasers by composition and purpose:

Klinser . Universal liquid. Removes moisture from the surface without penetrating into the deep layers of the plate. Contains a lot of alcohol, so it disinfects well.
Dehydrator . The liquid removes dust and dirt from nails. It differs from clinser in that it penetrates into the deep layers of the nail plate, drying it well from moisture. After using a dehydrator, the decorative coating will last much longer.
Primer . Liquid for degreasing, but its main purpose is to lift the scales of the nail plate and loosen the top layer.

Primers are divided into two types:

Acidic . Contains methacrylic acid, which lifts keratin scales and removes impurities. Acid primer is used before acrylic nail extensions. In case of contact with the skin, the product may cause redness, irritation, burning, and allergic reactions.
Acid-free . Used before applying gel polish or gel nail extensions. An acid-free primer is not as aggressive as an acid primer, but it degreases well.

What are the types

Nail dryers are available as separate products or included in primers and degreasers. In the first case, all drugs are divided into two types: acidic and non-acidic.

Acid dehydrator

The degreasing and drying effect is provided by the active compound - methacrylic acid. The concentrated liquid does not penetrate deeply into the horny epithelium, which eliminates the destruction of the structure. The adhesion of the decorative coating to the plate after treatment with a dehydrator is enhanced. Consequently, the manicure will remain presentable for longer.

The acid composition has a drying effect. This is relevant for skin prone to overhydration and oiliness. The product is also suitable for springboard-shaped plates.

The acidic ingredient in the composition indicates that precautions must be taken when working with the dehydrator. Contact with skin increases the risk of itching, burning, and redness.

The acid composition is characterized by rapid drying. You need to work with this tool extremely quickly and smoothly.

Acid Free Dehydrator

The product is characterized by a gentle effect on the horny epithelium. Maximum safety of the composition is achieved through the use of neutral components in production that do not have a negative effect on the nails. However, the bold plus is balanced by the minus - less strong adhesion indicators.

One of the active ingredients of the acid-free composition is resins. They leave a sticky layer after the dehydrator dries.

The absence of acid in the desiccant does not deprive the product of its functionality. It also ensures high-quality removal of moisture and fat, pathogenic microflora. The scope of application is impressive: for acrylic, gel, shellac and other decor.

It is not recommended to use an acid-free dryer when extending onto tips. Failure to comply with this warning may result in the extension material splitting. When correcting gel nails, only the regrown part of the plate is covered with a dehydrator.

Is it possible to replace the dehydrator with something?

It happens that the home manicure procedure has already begun and the woman notices that she has run out of drying agent. Or she simply did not have the opportunity to purchase a nail dehydrator. The question arises whether it can be replaced and with what.

Not so effective, but suitable means for drying and degreasing the nail plate are acetone or ordinary medical alcohol.

But they cannot be abused. Yes, they remove moisture and fat, but they do not restore the acid-base balance of the nail and can dry it out.

It is better to buy a dehydrator from a trusted brand. It may cost a little more, but the consumption of this product is small. But the extended nails will last a long time.

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Advantages and disadvantages

It is a misconception that a dehydrator and a degreaser are identical. Their compositions and functionality have many differences. To understand what the differences are, you need to compare the advantages and disadvantages of each type of bonder.

The degreaser removes grease and dirt from the surface, acting superficially. The desiccant also removes excess moisture, penetrating deep into the structure of the horny epithelium. It is not necessary to use both means. Those with oily skin and excessive sweating should give preference to a dehydrator. If there are no skin problems, use a regular degreaser.

When comparing a desiccant with a primer, the following advantages are observed:

both products create a protective layer that neutralizes the negative impact of decorative coatings on the horny epithelium;
They are used to treat natural nails.

In comparison of adhesive properties, the desiccant loses to the primer, which creates a stronger adhesion of the plate to the coating.

When applying a primer, the nail surface becomes rougher than after treatment with a dehydrator.

Advantages of the dehumidifier:

high-quality preparation of the plate for coating, copes with all types of contaminants;
does not change the color of shellac or gel polish;
prevents the development of pathogenic microflora;
does not deplete the tissue of the stratum corneum;
provides an antibacterial effect;
can be used on brittle and thin nails;
does not destroy the structure of the plate;
restores acid-base balance;
does not have a toxic effect on the epithelium;
increases surface adhesion.

What is a nail dehydrator

A dehydrator is a special means of drying the surface of the nail plate, improving adhesion to the coating, increasing the service life of the manicure. It is a colorless, odorless liquid composition.

What is a dehydrator for?

A good product has many functions that help to properly prepare the nail plate. The created design lasts a long time, does not chip or crack, and looks decorative and aesthetically pleasing much longer. The tool performs the following tasks:

What is the difference between a dehydrator and a primer?

A dehydrator is sometimes confused with a primer or bonder. These 3 products are completely different and have different functions. Each represents a specific stage of plate preparation. First, the surface is cleaned with a dehydrator, then a primer is applied, and after drying, a bonder is applied.

The difference between a primer and a dehydrator lies in the properties. The primer serves as protection for the natural nail from the harmful effects of the coating and provides powerful adhesion.

Types of dehydrators

The products differ in composition. Different components have positive and negative effects on the condition of nails. Therefore, it is very important to be able to understand the types of products and composition.

An acid dehydrator is a product that provides excellent adhesion of the coating material to the nail. Acids help open the nail scales. However, do not allow this drug to come into contact with the skin of your fingers. When dry, a white coating remains on the treated surface.

An acid-free dehydrator is more gentle than an acid one. It contains resins that turn into a sticky layer after drying. It does not penetrate deeply, so its action is considered more gentle and harmless.

How to choose a dehydrator

A quality drug should:

have good degreasing and cleaning properties;
be hypoallergenic, safe - do not disturb the microflora of the nail plate;
protect the plate from delamination, strengthen its structure.

You need to purchase the product in trusted places where there is minimal risk of buying a counterfeit and low-quality product.

Important! When using preparation products from different manufacturers, incompatibility of the components may occur, so cleaning the plates may not be effective.

How to use it correctly

Nail dehydration is one of the most important stages of nail preparation. Beginners can follow the step-by-step instructions:

An antiseptic is applied to the hands, the plates are shaped, and their surface is polished with a buff. The dust particles formed as a result of processing are brushed off with a brush.
A small amount of a dehydrating preparation is applied to the surface, distributing it evenly in a thin layer from the cuticle to the free edge.
As soon as the product has dried, apply a base coat, then proceed to the colored design with varnish.

Important! Due to the property of quickly evaporating, the product is lubricated with the nail immediately before applying the coating, that is, not all plates are treated at once, but one by one.

Rating of dehydrators for manicure

There are many brands and brands, but only a few of them are recognized as the best and most popular. To choose a reliable nail cleanser to prepare for a manicure, you need to check out the top 5 best dehydrators:

5th place – Codi Nail Fresher. The Kodi dehydrator has gained wide popularity due to its high-quality nail cleansing and the absolute harmlessness of its composition. The product is ideal for preparing natural plates. Well restores nails prone to splitting. Use with a degreaser.

4th place – Nail DehydratorPNB. The manufacturer of the product is a company widely known among professional manicurists. It is practically odorless and does an excellent job of degreasing and cleaning the surface of the plate.

3rd place – СND. It is very convenient to use and apply, it is equipped with a soft hair brush, the composition does not spread, and dries without drying in a lamp. Using this product before applying the design significantly extends the life of the manicure.

2nd place – Patrisa Nail. Application of the drug is suitable for preparing nail plates for absolutely any coating - gel, acrylic, regular varnish. The product does not cause any harm to the surface structure.

1st place – IBD Dehydrate. Cleaning nails in preparation for manicure with a dehydrator of this brand is especially high-quality and convenient: the product does not contain dyes or odors, completely evaporates when dry, acts only in the surface layer of the plate and even restores its pH balance. Used to prepare for any type of coating.

Top 5 funds

IQ BEAUTY nail dehydrator

Effectively removes grease and moisture from the surface of the plates.
The composition does not contain resins that create a sticky layer, or fragrances. When applying, special attention is paid to the cuticle area and ends. Scope of product application: all types of gel, shellac, rubber coatings. Volume – 12.5 ml.

Cost – 195 rubles.

Patrisa Nail nail dehydrator Nail Prep

Liquid for removing fat and moisture from nail plates, characterized by high efficiency. Suitable for working with acrylic, gel, gel polish. Despite its powerful cleaning action, the product provides gentle care. Copes with any type of pollution.

Volume – 16 ml.

Cost – 300 rub.

Fantasy Nails Dehydrator

The drying liquid removes dirt, oil and moisture from the nail plate. This helps create a strong adhesion of the nail to the decorative coating.

Apply the product after polishing and filing the nails. Area of application of the product: working with acrylic, gel, bio-gel, shellac.

Cost - 139 rubles.

PNB nail dehydrator Nail Dehydrator

One of the popular means for creating nail art.
The manufacturer produces a wide range of manicure products, including this dehumidifier. No fragrances or dyes were used in the production, which makes it safe to use. The liquid does not emit an unpleasant odor when applied to nails. This is a professional product used by masters of elite salons.

Volume – 15 ml.

Cost – 240 rub..

NeoNail nail dehydrator Nail Prep

The product is developed on the basis of a unique formula that effectively degreases and dries the nail plate. The composition does not contain aggressive chemical compounds. Area of application: under shellac coating, gel polish, extensions.

Caution: Keep the bottle away from heat sources.

Volume – 10 ml.

Cost – 280 rub.

What are liquids made of?

The composition of a nail dehydrator, as well as a primer, can be acid-containing or acid-free. The first option penetrates well into the nail plate and reveals its scales. This ensures the best adhesion of materials during extensions.

This composition must be used extremely carefully:

•the entire nail coating procedure is performed by the master strictly wearing gloves; •before application, excess skin and cuticles are removed from the nail; • when coating with a composition containing acid, avoid contact with exposed skin and mucous membranes, as this can cause a chemical burn; •after application, wait until the product has completely dried before proceeding to the next procedure; •the treated nail plate will acquire a whitish tint, this means the actions were performed correctly; •it is highly not recommended to use acid-containing dehydrators on weakened and brittle nails, this will further damage them; •the composition is not suitable for people prone to allergic reactions to the skin, as well as those with a history of various fungal infections of the fingers and nails.

An acid-free dehydrator also penetrates the nail plate, but has a less aggressive effect on it. It is better to choose for dry and lifeless nails. It does not cause allergic reactions and is suitable for allergy sufferers.

The acid-free primer and dehydrator works like double-sided tape. On the Internet you can find many photos of the detailed action of the composition. It reliably glues materials, preventing nail detachment.

Today, many user reviews are published on the Internet about the use of certain compositions for fixing extended nails. You can also see photos of the final result of the procedures. When choosing a dehydrator, be sure to pay attention to the active ingredients included in it. Choose exactly those products that suit your nails for the best extension results.

How to apply correctly

The declared characteristics and functions of the dehydrator are checked after the first use of the product. To adequately evaluate a manicure product, you need to follow the rules for applying preparatory layers for shellac/gel polish.

Experts propose the following algorithm.

Before starting work, the master prepares the necessary tools and puts on gloves.
First, each nail plate is treated: removing the keratinized layer of cuticle, giving the nails the desired shape. The process is performed using an orange stick or pusher.
Use a sanding file to remove the shine from the surface. Dust is carefully brushed off with a stiff-bristled brush.
The next step is to apply the dehydrator. Excess liquid is removed from the brush, after which the product is distributed over the plate. Do not touch the skin around the nail due to the risk of chemical burns. The brush is passed in this order: first the center of the nail, then the side parts. It takes about a minute to dry the layer.

In this way, each plate is processed in turn. The quality of work can be assessed by the whitish surface that appears after drying. The tissue around the plate should not be affected. Next, the following steps are performed to create nail art.

If the dehydrator comes into contact with your skin, immediately rinse your hand under running water. You can continue manicure only after complete drying.

Do not apply the product to all nails at the same time. The period of action of the product does not exceed 30 minutes.

How to use nail primer - instructions

How to apply primer to nails is usually indicated in the manufacturer's instructions and may differ slightly, but in general this process is standard:

Use an orange stick or pusher to push back the cuticle from the nail plate.
The natural shine is removed from the nails with a grinder file, and the dust is shaken off with a stiff brush.
Next, the primer itself is applied. It only takes a little bit to apply it to the brush, squeezing it on both sides on the edge of the bottle and, if necessary, on a napkin. Place the brush in the center of the nail and let the primer distribute itself over the surface. In places where it can't reach, gently brush the brush, avoiding touching the skin. If this does happen, then you should rinse it thoroughly under running water. The primer should be applied very thinly: this way it will not flow anywhere and will work most effectively: a thick layer can prevent the scales from lifting from the upper layers of the nail.
Next, you need to wait for the primer to air dry. This usually does not take more than a minute. You can tell that the bonder has already dried by the resulting pale coating on the nails. Sometimes the primer requires drying in a UV or LED lamp; this will definitely be indicated in the manufacturer's instructions.
Next, the procedure for building up or creating a long-term gel polish coating is carried out using technology.

Reviews

Larisa, 30 years old
Lately I've only been using the IQ BEAUTY dehydrator. An ideal composition that really provides nail care. When applying desiccant, it is important to carefully coat the entire plate. If there are untouched areas left, chips will soon form in these places. The product should be used with caution; if it comes into contact with the skin, a strong burning sensation occurs. I remove marks with a cotton swab dipped in clean water.
Yulia, 27 years old
I learned how to do manicures with gel polish myself. The first times were unsuccessful; for a long time I could not figure out the reason for the peeling of the decorative coating 3-4 days after its application. I read that a dehydrator can be replaced with a primer. Only later did I find out that not every primer contains dehydrating substances. After following the technique using all the means, it was possible to obtain durable nail art.

By following the bonder application technology, high-quality preparation of nails for decorating with coatings is achieved. The process includes disinfection of the manicure area, prevention of fungus, removal of dirt and moisture. Taken together, all of these factors help improve the adhesive properties of the plate surface.