Today, gel nail extensions are gaining great popularity. Thanks to this option, you can create a long-lasting and beautiful manicure. This procedure can be performed both in the salon and at home. But before you start this technology, you need to buy high-quality materials. One of these is gel.
It is from how high quality it is that we can talk about the quality of artificial nails, their durability and appearance. Today, the range of these products is simply replete, so sometimes there are some difficulties with which manufacturer is better. This question especially often arises among newcomers to the nail industry.
If you want your efforts not to go down the drain and you and the client to like the result of your work, you need to use only high-quality products and equipment for extensions. For beginners today there is a wide range of starter kits.
Their package includes all the materials and equipment necessary for extension. It is not immediately possible to determine which gel is better, because sometimes the same material can be used for all types of work.
The specific type of gel must be used for its intended purpose. For example, there are special white compounds for French hair, but they are not suitable for extensions. To obtain a durable color coating, you need to use gel polish. Transparent gel remains a universal cosmetic product in the field of nail extensions. Any type of design can be applied on top of this coating.
Today there are many manufacturers of gels for nail extensions, and each of them adheres to its own specific concept. And it is this factor that creates competition in the world market.
Looking ahead, it should be noted that the leaders in this area are such gel manufacturers as Creative, IBD and EzFlow. Their products are very simple and easy to use, and the artificial turf is amazingly durable. But to choose the right material, you need to know the technique of gel extensions.
Video of gel for nail extension:
Depending on the gel technology, it can be classified into 3 types:
- Single phase;
- two-phase;
- three-phase.
A single-phase product takes on all the functions at once: it gives artificial nails strength, models them and allows for maximum adhesion between the natural and decorative coating. If we talk about two-phase technology, then there are 2 types of gel: the first is used for modeling and adhesion, and the second is for the strength of artificial nails. The three-phase technology kit includes 3 gels: for modeling, strength and fixing the design on the nails.
Taking these features into account, most manufacturers produce universal extension products that contain not only gel, but also other auxiliary components for various technologies.
An example would be the Nail Selection for professionals
. This type of product is considered the most popular in terms of accessibility and practicality.
Before you buy a gel for extensions and determine which one is better, you need to consider a number of requirements:
- Viscosity of the product
. This factor is very important for those who will be doing nail modeling for the first time. If you use a gel with a liquid consistency, it will quickly spread and lose its shape. But a sufficiently thick gel does not allow you to obtain a more even and smooth surface of the artificial nail. - Certificate of quality
. The process of nail extension is a delicate piece of jewelry. The beauty and health of women's hands will depend on the quality of the gel. There is no need to be shy and ask the seller for documentation that would confirm the high quality of the product. - Features of hardening
. Some products require the use of a catalyst to harden. As a rule, they are applied with a brush or directly from the tube. The difficulties that arise when working with them are their thick consistency. It is much easier to deal with products that harden under the influence of UV rays. Such gels have a liquid texture and are perfectly processed after drying. - Lack of aroma. If we are talking about a high-quality and hypoallergenic gel, then when used it will not emit a sharp and unpleasant odor.
On the video, which gel for nail extension is the best:
Which single-phase gel is the best?
Single-phase gel is used as a strengthening agent for the natural nail plate. A characteristic feature of this product is that it can be used at all stages of extension: base, modeling and finishing coat.
Working with this gel is very simple and fast. But the single-phase one costs much more than the others. But here we cannot say so clearly, because when you buy one gel, you will not need to spend money on purchasing other materials for modeling and finishing coating.
But what reviews exist about Golden Rose nail polish are indicated in this article
Reviews
Reviews about single-phase gels are positive. And not only from ordinary users, but also from professionals. The effectiveness of their use, more or less safe composition, texture features and, most importantly, the possibility of training without a huge waste of money on each individual drug are assessed. This option is ideal even for allergy sufferers and those with sensitive skin.
We also recommend that you read in more detail about simple gel polish nail designs for beginners.
Best Producer
To be sure of the quality of your nail extensions, you need to purchase gel from one manufacturer. Today, masters of the oil industry trust the following companies:
What Russian analogues exist for Lotseryl nail polish, the contents of this article will help you understand
In nail extensions, a lot depends not only on the skill of the artist. Much attention should be paid to the quality of the material used for extensions. You need to choose it carefully, and price is not the main selection criterion. Currently, gel extensions are very popular among women. It allows you to provide your nails with a beautiful, noble and well-groomed look. An important innovation is the use of gel polish. Its composition is similar to regular varnish. But in its structure, among other things, there is also a polymer. This substance, after drying, turns into a durable film. This product is durable; it remains on the nails for about two weeks. This technology is much better than acrylic, because its use negatively affects the condition of the nail plate, it deteriorates.
The question of what is a good gel for nail extension worries both ordinary women and professionals who do manicures in salons. After all, many new products are appearing on the cosmetic market. But sometimes the old, time-tested remedies are much better.
How to apply correctly
Despite the simplicity of applying single-phase varnish, it still requires some knowledge and skill:
- The first thing this type of manicure cannot do without is a manicure set, an LED lamp or, directly, the gel itself.
- Before applying, you should do a regular manicure by filing your nails and cutting off the cuticles.
- Then the nail plate is degreased with a special product.
- Apply a layer of gel and place your hand under the lamp. On average, the time it takes for the varnish to dry depends on the product itself, as well as on the power of the lamp, but usually a minute is enough.
- Treat the cover around the nails and cuticles with manicure oil and let it absorb.
Single-phase gel polish is a good help in learning how to make a manicure of incredible beauty and durability on your own. However, you should not focus only on it and over time it is better to dilute your collection with two-phase and three-phase varnishes.
Types of materials
The materials used are divided into several types:
- Single-phase: the procedure is carried out using one gel. The product performs all three main tasks: adhesion, modeling and fixing the nail. Working with single-phase material is much easier. The price of the material is relatively high, but it is justified by the ease of use.
- Two-phase: in this case, two materials are needed. The first product is a modeling base. It is necessary in order to provide traction. The design owes its strength to the second means. In the second phase, sculpting gels are used. They come in transparent or camouflage. Camouflage products have the same color as natural claws. A clear gel is used to ensure the desired shape and length. To harden the nail, you can use a UV lamp or LED device.
- Three-phase: this method requires three gels. The first is a modeling base, the second maintains strength, the third provides grip. Three-phase extension requires a lot of time and a lot of experience. This method, in addition to skill, also requires high costs, since the cost of the material is higher compared to the first two materials.
Strengthening natural nails with biogel
Biogel can also be used as a base for gel polish, however, this material is safer for nails, in addition, it is odorless, therefore it is approved for use by expectant and nursing mothers and allergy sufferers. Like gel coating, the material in question can be single-phase or three-phase.
Strengthening nails with biogel is carried out according to the same scheme in three steps: a base is applied, then the main layer and finish, each layer is dried in a lamp.
Don't miss the most popular article in the section: How to extend nails with gel polish. Nail extension instructions for beginners. Photo.
Rules for working with material
Professionals who prefer single-phase techniques usually prefer BALANCE Basic Clear Gel. It comes in two colors - transparent and pink. When dyed, transparent can be turned into any other. You can also choose a product such as Balance Bright White Tip. People often respond positively to him. The product is suitable for women who are fond of French manicure. The product has a bright, opaque white color. The single-phase system is actively used not only in a professional salon. Some women do extensions at home. The technology is quite simple and unpretentious.
Particular attention should be paid to the “Pro Formula”. It is essentially a comprehensive tool. The main purpose of this system is camouflage. You can also mask the imperfections of natural nails, such as white spots and blue bruises that occur when struck with your hand. The system will also help with slight lengthening of the nail.
Many professionals call Irisk Professional the best product. It has undoubted advantages such as excellent quality and reasonable price. It is resistant to high temperatures, you can safely go to the sauna and not worry about your manicure. Nails will not peel off or crack.
Comparison table of characteristics
In order to compare the products presented, we recommend that you study the comparison table in the article below.
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Means | Country of Origin | Volume (g) | Purpose | Usage | Price, rub) |
NailsProfi Baby Boomer Gel 064 – 15 | Germany | 15 | extension, modeling | Mani Pedi | from 300 to 340 |
Runail Professional Elastone gel | Russia | 15 | extension, modeling | Mani Pedi | from 395 to 430 |
Runail Professional UV Gel Camouflage | Russia | 15 | extension, modeling | Mani Pedi | from 295 to 360 |
Runail Professional UV Gel One Step | Russia | 15 | building, modeling, strengthening | Mani Pedi | from 240 to 300 |
Runail Professional | Russia | 15 | extension, modeling | Mani Pedi | from 425 to 500 |
NL Professional Acryl Gel | South Korea | 18 | extension, modeling | Mani Pedi | from 740 to 800 |
TNL Professional Builder Gel | South Korea | 18 | extension, modeling | Mani Pedi | from 740 to 800 |
Grattol Acryl Gel | Russia | 30 | extension, modeling | legs, arms | from 700 to 830 |
AMERICAN GEL SOFT PINK | Germany | 14 | camouflage, creating a free edge | legs, arms | from 308 to 350 |
Runail Professional UV Gel One Step Dust-Free | Russia | 15 | protection, strengthening, alignment | legs, arms | from 297 to 350 |
BHM Professional GeleX | USA | 15 | protection, strengthening, alignment | legs, arms | from 390 to 450 |
Irisk Professional PolyGel | USA | 30 | protection, strengthening, alignment | legs, arms | from 450 to 510 |
Runail Professional UV Gel Base | Russia | 15 | protection, strengthening, alignment | legs, arms | from 310 to 350 |
WULA Jelly builder gel | Russia | 15 | protection, strengthening, alignment | legs, arms | from 320 to 380 |
Extensions at home
When working at home, you need to carefully select a gel. When using the three-phase method, it is necessary that the gel of the second phase has a dense texture; it should not spread under any circumstances. You need to choose simple tips; they can be used to create a French manicure. Gradually you can add more complex options to your arsenal. There are different forms for manicure:
- Intended for one-time use.
- Reusable.
The advantage of disposable forms is their low price. They are made of plastic or paper. In order to get excellent results when doing nail extensions at home, you need to understand what good gel for nail extensions professionals recommend using at home. You need to be guided by the following criteria:
- For use at home, it is better to take a gel that hardens using a device such as a UV lamp. Such products are easy to apply and do not have a pronounced, pungent odor.
- It is important to choose non-viscous gels. If it has a too thick structure, modeling the nail will be difficult. The product with a very liquid texture spreads and is prone to cracking.
- The product must have a certificate confirming its quality. This product is safe and will not cause disappointment or unpleasant consequences.
Poor quality material is harmful. Because unscrupulous manufacturers add various substances to products of poor quality that are harmful to nails and negatively affect health in general. After using such materials, nails often require long and serious treatment. Therefore, you need to choose trusted manufacturers, and fall for advertising tricks, which are often used by dubious little-known companies.
For the best combination with three-phase extension, you need to choose products from the same company. They contain approximately the same components and are best suited to each other.
Gel nail coating involves three stages. The first is designed to level the surface of the nail and ensure adhesion of the base material to it. At the second stage, the nail is modeled using gel. At the final third stage, a finishing coating is applied, which provides a mirror-like shine and strength.
Gels that combine all three stages are called single-phase. They are more economical and easy to work with, especially for beginners.
There are also two- and three-phase gels. In them, a certain drug is responsible for each stage. It’s easy to guess that in a two-phase gel there are two such preparations, and a three-phase gel for nail extensions consists, respectively, of three. Such gels are more expensive, more difficult to work with, and the duration of the procedure increases.
When buying a gel, you should find out how it hardens.
- The most common are photosensitive gels, which are polymerized using an ultraviolet lamp.
- There are also gels that harden with the help of a catalyst. This is a special substance that, when reacting with the gel, promotes its hardening. However, it is worth considering that these gels are viscous and quite difficult to work with.
When choosing which gel is best for nail extensions, you should pay attention to colored analogues. They are indispensable for nail design and creating a fashionable, bright, multi-colored manicure. Of course, after a few days the regrown part of the nail will be noticeable. But this can be dealt with using regular varnish to match the gel. The entire nail and its regrown part are covered with varnish, thereby refreshing the appearance of the nails.
Basic gel for nail extensions and other types of gel: main characteristics
To better understand nail extensions, let's look at the main types of gel and their characteristics.
Base gel
for nail extensions it is used in a three-phase nail plate modeling system. This gel is applied at the first stage, ensuring adhesion of the base material to the nail. The base gel is liquid, odorless, applied to the nail in a thin layer, which is dried in a UV lamp for 1 minute.
Construction gel
for nail extensions is called sculptural. Its name speaks for itself. This gel is used in a three-phase modeling system at the second stage, when the formation of an artificial nail occurs.
It is worth noting
Before applying the sculpting gel, you must apply a base gel for nail extensions. It is better to use a single-phase transparent building gel for nail extensions. This is an excellent choice when making an aquarium or using colored gels.
Sculpting gels are able to align themselves on the nail. The polymerization time in a UV lamp is three minutes, after which the gel acquires high strength.
Very often, camouflage gels
for nail extensions, which, thanks to the presence of different shades (from light pink to light beige), can give the nails a natural look. Camouflage gels are indispensable when building up French hair. With the help of such gels they create the basic architecture of the nail or apply it before applying the topcoat. Since naturalness is in fashion, camouflage gels are becoming especially popular.
Stained glass gels
for nail extensions provide a wide field of activity for creative people and lovers of bright manicures. Using stained glass gels on nails you can create three-dimensional drawings, abstractions, and aqua design.
Stained glass gel is a translucent colored construction gel. It is self-leveling, which allows, in case of inaccurate application, to model nails without subsequent correction of their shape. When using this gel, you get crystal or glass nails. Stained glass gels are often used together with foil, broths, rhinestones, and liquid mica.
It is worth noting
For home use, stained glass gels for nail extensions can be prepared independently by mixing a regular transparent gel with a drop of paint. The main thing is that the paint is not water-based!
Transparent gel for nail extensions is used for standard extensions, when a simple coating of gel nails with varnish is planned.
Also, a transparent gel is indispensable when performing aquadesign.
After polymerization, it retains transparency and shine.
It is the transparent gel that is most often used when modeling the nail.
Gel chewing gum
for nail extensions is know-how in the nail industry. This type of nail modeling was invented by Maria Gulyaeva. Gel chewing gum is somewhat similar to pinkish plasticine. Working with it is reminiscent of acrylic nail extensions. Drying in a lamp requires 5 seconds; without a lamp, the material hardens in 2 minutes.
It is worth noting
An important advantage of the gum gel is that it is applied only from the middle of the nail to create the required length. Plus, this material allows you to create simply masterpieces on your nails in the form of rich, multifaceted stained glass windows. This is simply a unique material both in operation and in application.
Nails extended using this technology are light, durable, do not crack or peel off. During the extension procedure there is no cloud of white dust, and heavy shavings do not fly anywhere. True, like everything new, gel-chewing gum for nail extensions costs a lot. But those who have already appreciated the advantages of the new product justify its cost. Durable, shiny and bright nails delight their owners for a very long time.
The success of a home or salon nail extension procedure directly depends on the quality of the materials and tools used. And special requirements must be made specifically for the gel. There are several types of products - single-phase, two-phase, three-phase. Focus on the chosen extension technology, the tools available and the result you want to get.
Nail extension is a rather complex process that requires skill and skill. But considering that all the tools and materials for the procedure can be found on the open market, the technology has become available to those who do manicures at home. And the question of purchasing high-quality gel polish for extensions has become very relevant. The assortment is large, but choosing the right cosmetics to ultimately get beautiful nails can be difficult.
When choosing a varnish, you must first take into account the chosen nail extension technology. All funds can be divided into several types:
- Single-phase
Such varnishes are easy to use, inexpensive, and economical to use. In this case, only one product is applied, combining 3 important functions - nail plate modeling, adhesion, strength. High-quality gels harden quickly, forming a durable coating of one color or another.
Naturally, to carry out the procedure at home, it is better to take single-phase gel polishes. They are used for extensions on both forms and tips. For beginners - the best option! There is an opportunity to experiment with products from different manufacturers and different colors.
- Two-phase
For the extension procedure using two-phase technology, you will need 2 products - a modeling gel and a finishing coat. Such kits are more expensive, and the procedure itself takes longer.
Two-phase varnishes are more suitable for salon procedures, when a master gets down to business.
- Three-phase
This is a set of 3 tools, each of which performs a specific function. At the first stage of the procedure, a base polish is applied - it helps the product adhere to the nail. This gel is liquid, odorless, applied in a thin layer, and dried using a UV lamp. Next, the nails are covered with a sculptural (constructive) varnish - it forms the basis of the artificial nail plate and makes it durable. At the final stage of the procedure, a finishing coating is used, which also needs to be “dried” under a UV lamp.
Naturally, extensions using three-phase technology take a long time - not the best option for home procedures. These are professional gels that are used by professionals in salons.
Nails are often extended with transparent varnishes - after drying under a UV lamp, they retain their shine and transparency. Then the finished coating is “decorated” in one way or another. But you should also pay attention to colored gel polishes - they are indispensable assistants when creating a bright manicure. The product can also be used to coat natural nails - it lasts much longer than regular varnish.
Camouflage gels for manicure modeling have become widespread. The range of shades is quite large - from pale pink to beige. These products are indispensable when creating an artificial French manicure, as they give the manicure a natural look. Camouflage polish is applied to the nails before the finishing coat.
A great way to make beautiful nails is to use stained glass gels for manicure design. Such tools allow you to create three-dimensional designs and abstractions on your nails. Stained glass varnishes are often combined with various decorative elements - rhinestones, foil, mica. Original nail design for special occasions!
A new product in the world of nail services is gel-chewing gum for extensions. The product visually resembles pink plasticine. And the extension procedure itself is similar to treating nails with acrylic. The material allows you to create a beautiful manicure in the form of multifaceted stained glass windows. The good thing is that your nails are not only beautiful, but also very durable! All the advantages of the unique chewing gum gel fully justify the rather high cost of the product. It will be difficult to carry out the procedure yourself at home - unless you practice well.
It’s better because the master will advise you on the “right” gel polish. And when choosing a coating yourself, be sure to examine the treasured tube from all sides. What is important to consider when choosing?
- It is better to give preference to cosmetics from trusted brands. This minimizes the risk of buying low-quality varnish.
- A high-quality gel does not have a strong odor. If possible, it is better to open the tube and smell the product.
- If you have chosen three-phase extension technology, then all the varnishes that you will use must be of the same brand. Then the components will be best combined with each other, and you will enjoy beautiful nails as a result of extensions.
- The viscosity of the varnish is of great importance. A product that is too liquid will spread and crack, while a product that is too thick, on the contrary, will cause difficulties when modeling your nails.
Homemade and can be done using several types of varnishes, which differ in the way they harden. Please also take this into account when choosing cosmetics for extensions. The products harden using:
- Catalyst
This method of extension will require the purchase of another product that will contribute to the polymerization of the gel polish used. It is worth considering that it is quite difficult to work with such compositions - they are viscous in consistency, which causes certain difficulties in leveling the surface of the nails
- UV lamps
The base is easier to apply to the nails and can be easily processed later. At the same time, the procedure time is significantly reduced. These are the products that should be preferred when doing nail extensions at home.
Every woman dreams of looking stylish and attractive, and therefore it is very important to think through her appearance to the smallest detail. Manicure plays an important role in creating a flawless image.
And if you cannot boast of the ideal shape of your nails, you can safely resort to the extension procedure. One of the most popular options is gel nail polish.
This is due to the fact that the gel does not have a pronounced odor and is very easy to apply.
The resulting nail structure is as natural as possible.
In addition, using this material for extensions does not irritate the cuticle. What gels are commonly used today?
Wide range of Irisk varnishes for extensions
Irisk gel polishes are presented on the Russian market in two lines. First: ONE STEP Irisk, which has 20 classic shades, each costing about 200 rubles.
The second: Irisk GelLack 3 in 1, is available in 56 colors, including shimmer and glossy shades. It costs a little more, about 600 rubles depending on the shade.
The varnish from this company does not require degreasing. Due to its unique composition, it is applied in one layer and polymerizes in a lamp in just 2 minutes.
Does not require correction for 2-3 weeks, after which it is removed with a special liquid, and the nail is again ready to apply gel polish.
Types of gels for nail extensions
- Single-phase gel. This is a great option for beginners. It does not require the purchase of many additional materials and is ideal for those who want to master the art of nail extensions.
This product has a liquid consistency, which is very important for applying the first layer. However, beginning craftsmen encounter some difficulties when using this material.
To avoid this, you need to form the apex zone, seal the ends, and then turn the nail towards the working surface.
By holding it in this position for a few seconds, you will be able to collect the gel in the apex area.
After this, you can fix the material using a UV lamp.
- Biphasic gel. It contains two products of different consistency. The base gel is quite liquid, while the modeling agent is denser - this helps to create the correct nail architecture.
- Three-phase gel. This system is considered professional and the most complete. Only with its help can you create a truly beautiful and high-quality manicure.
In addition to the base and modeling gel, it also contains a finishing gel. This product helps protect nails from external factors, which increases their service life.
Necessary tools and aids
Apply the single-phase gel using a flat brush with a rounded end made of synthetic bristles. Natural is not suitable for these purposes. When choosing a brush, place it on the nail of your little finger and press lightly: it should not go into the side rollers.
To dry gels, it is best to use hybrid lamps with a power of at least 36 watts.
You can’t do without forms, lint-free napkins and a cleaner. The most important tool after a brush, perhaps, can be considered a file with an abrasiveness of 100\180 grit. Some craftsmen use a machine with a suitable cutter for sawing, but this requires considerable skill.
Colored gels for a beautiful manicure
Colored gels have a lower viscosity compared to modeling agents. Thanks to this property, they are actively used to create various nail designs, including French manicure.
Colored gels may contain fillers that allow you to achieve different effects. You can find products with mother of pearl or glitter.
Stained glass gels look very beautiful, allowing you to get the effect of colored glass.
Thick and translucent gel products can be an excellent alternative to ordinary varnish, because they retain their original appearance and shine much longer.
The most popular today are colored gels in white and pink shades - they are used for the popular French manicure.
When choosing these products, you need to take into account that they must have a rich color and dense texture. This will allow you to create the most neat and uniform manicure.
Black gel for extensions looks very original. Even if you apply this product in a thin layer, you get a very rich color.
It can be used over the entire surface of the nail or mixed with products of other colors.
A very interesting option are dry pigments, which are used to create colored gels with your own hands. The master can add different amounts of such pigments and thereby adjust the brightness and color saturation.
Thanks to the use of colored nail gels, you can realize your wildest fantasies - create bright designs or pastel patterns. This material is actively used to create a colored background or gradient manicure.
Advantages and disadvantages
Before using a single-phase base to create extended nails, it is recommended to take into account the peculiarities of such manipulations, because they do not always lead to a positive result.
The main positive aspects of simplified technology:
- Speed. Due to the fact that only one product needs to be distributed over the nail bed, the procedure goes quite quickly, despite the fact that you need to spend time leveling the coating.
- Ease of doing the job. Even a beginner can carefully apply the base to the nail bed, achieving a neat manicure.
- Liquid texture. The self-leveling consistency is one of the main advantages of such extensions, since a woman does not have to spend a lot of time distributing the product evenly.
- Large palette of shades. In addition to gels for direct extensions, there are also colored single-phase bases that are used for basic decorative coating. They are suitable for a large number of designs and unusual manicure designs.
- Strength. The gel is no different from classic acrylic, therefore it creates a dense substrate in the free edge area.
However, keep in mind that the liquid texture is not always a positive side of the composition, since because of it it spreads quite quickly, so you need to apply thin layers, quickly polymerizing them to prevent detachments during work.
The long-term retention of the result is also usually lower than when performing classic three-phase extensions. If the latter option is worn in its previous state for more than a month, then the simplified version is recommended to be adjusted after 2.5-3 weeks. Because of this, it takes a woman more time to constantly correct the effect, but it will always look well-groomed and neat.