6 Things You Need to Know About Having a Gel Manicure


I have only just started having gel manicures recently. Where it's not a habit I'm looking to get into for the long term, it's definitely something I would consider again for special occasions. But there have been a few things that I have learnt and picked up on along the way. That's why I thought I'd do a blog post all about getting a gel manicure. Whether you're going for your first appointment or are a seasoned nail salon-goer, you might well learn something about the process, so enjoy!

1. Apply sun cream to your hands before have a gel manicure

Gel nails are cured under a UV lamp, so what you need to do is, much like when you know you'll be walking out into the sunshine, is wear some sun cream on your hands. The skin on your hands is delicate and it's not often completely exposed to UV rays in the same way that the rest of our body is. Therefore, you need to protect them. Apply a sun cream that's, at least, factor 30 and apply it to the entire hand, not just the top or the palms.

2. Gel manicures last for a long time

Gel manicures last far longer, generally, than classic or basic manicures and even acrylic nails. Acrylics are light and brittle, whereas gel nails are hard-wearing and can last for as long as two weeks. You'll also be able to use your fingers and and hands in much the same way as before, without having to worry about acrylics coming off or breaking. I wouldn't get acrylics done having had a gel manicure.

3. The cheapest form of manicure isn't gel

If you're on a bit of a budget and only really want to spend a few pounds having a decent manicure without the gel aspect, then you can get simple manicures instead. These are treatments where dead skin will be removed, cuticles tidied and hands moisturised. In addition, you can have a basic nail polish colour applied as part of your treatment. You don't have to go for a gel manicure if your budget says otherwise.

4. Gel nails are more durable than acrylics

We've already touched on this point, but if you're wanting to get your nails done, maybe for your holiday, for instance, then gel nails will be the better choice. This is because they can last up to two weeks, sometimes longer, and you don't have to be super careful when it comes to doing day-to-day activities like you would do with acrylic nails. I have never worried about opening a can of Diet Coke or tapping away on my keyboard when I've had gel nails done.

5. You can get a gel manicure whenever you want

Whether you want to have it done in a few days time or four weeks from now, gel manicures are simple enough to do that they can be booked super last minute. They're not too expensive, either, so you don't need to budget for them like you would do with acrylics, which are a bit more costly than gel nails. You have the flexibility to go and get them done and re-done, whenever you need it.

6. Make sure you detox your nails & remoisturise them in between gel manicures

No matter what you're applying to your nails, whether it be basic polish, gel or glue for acrylics, it's never good for your nails if they're undergoing prolonged use. That's why you need to give your nails and your cuticles some TLC in between your nails appointments. Go a few weeks at a time with nothing on your nails, keep them in good condition and try using some moisturisers and serums to bring them back to life. 

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I hope you enjoyed this blog post? Let me know in the comments below whether you have any tips for having a gel manicure and I will see you again very soon with a brand new blog post!

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