Regarding nail enhancements, gel and gel polish are two popular options that often confuse clients and even some nail technicians. While both are cured under UV or LED lamps and offer long-lasting results, they serve distinct purposes and have unique properties. Understanding the differences between gel vs gel polish is essential for choosing the right product to meet your clients’ nail goals.
In this guide, we’ll break down the science behind gel products, explore the differences between hard and soft gels, and explain why gel polish is a game-changer for natural nail coatings. Let’s dive into the world of gel vs gel polish!
The Science Behind Gel Products
Gel products are a marvel of modern chemistry. According to Milady’s Standard Nail Technology, a leading resource in the nail industry, all gels are composed of advanced chemical compounds. These compounds comprise liquid monomers and partially polymerized monomers (oligomers). When exposed to UV or LED light, these molecules undergo a process called polymerization, which hardens the gel into a durable nail enhancement.
Manufacturers control the properties of gels by adjusting the length and arrangement of polymer chains. For example:
- Tighter molecular structures create harder, more durable gels.
- Looser molecular structures result in softer, more flexible gels.
This scientific precision allows manufacturers to create gels with unique characteristics, tailored to specific nail needs.
What is Gel System?
The traditional gel system is typically housed in a pot and applied with a separate brush. Its primary purpose is to build and extend nails. With a thicker consistency than gel polish, it’s ideal for:
- Natural nail overlays
- Nail extensions using forms or tips
Gel systems require a UV or LED lamp to cure (harden) the product, creating a strong and durable enhancement.
Hard Gel vs Soft Gel: What’s the Difference?
Not all gels are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the two main types:
1. Hard Gel
- Molecular Structure: Tight and low molecular weight, creating a hard, robust coating.
- Durability: Lasts up to four weeks.
- Uses: Perfect for building length, strengthening natural nails, and assisting clients who want to grow their nails (e.g., nail biters).
- Removal: Cannot be soaked off; must be filed off.
Expert Insight:
Learnah Starbuck, Brand Ambassador for The GelBottle Inc., says, “Hard gel is suited to longer nails or clients with hands-on jobs who need extra strength. It’s ideal for extending nails and creating super-strong enhancements.”
Justyna Pryke, gel specialist and owner of Indulge Nails & Beauty in Leeds, adds, “Hard gel is great for clients with brittle or damaged nails, as its strong structure lasts well on these nail types.”
2. Soft Gel
- Molecular Structure: Elongated with gaps, making it more porous and flexible.
- Durability: Less durable than hard gel but easier to remove.
- Uses: It can be applied similarly to hard gel but is better suited for clients who prefer a soak-off option.
- Removal: Can be soaked off with acetone-based products.
What is Gel Polish?
Gel polish is a type of soft gel designed for natural nail coatings. It’s cured under a UV or LED lamp, offering a glossy, long-lasting finish. Here’s why it’s so popular:
- Consistency: Thin and flexible, making it ideal for quick overlays and intricate nail art.
- Durability: More durable than regular nail polish but less durable than hard gels due to its porous molecular structure.
- Removal: Can be easily removed with acetone-based products.
Gel polish is perfect for clients who want a longer-lasting manicure without the added strength or length provided by hard gels.
Gel vs Gel Polish: Key Differences
| Feature | Gel System | Gel Polish |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Building and extending nails | Natural nail coatings |
| Consistency | Thicker | Thinner |
| Durability | Highly durable | Less durable than hard gels |
| Removal | Filed off | Soaked off with acetone |
| Best For | Length, strength, extensions | Quick overlays, nail art |
Which Should You Choose?
The choice between gel vs gel polish depends on your client’s nail goals:
- Choose Gel System if your client needs added strength, length, or nail extensions.
- Choose Gel Polish if your client wants a long-lasting, natural-looking manicure with easy removal.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the differences between gel vs gel polish is key to delivering exceptional nail services. Whether your client is looking for durable extensions or a chic, natural finish, there’s a product to meet their needs.
By mastering the science and application of these products, you can elevate your nail artistry and keep your clients coming back for more.
