Polygel nails are a great way to get the nail art that you want without having to wait for your polish to dry. They can also be used in place of acrylic or gel nails if you’re looking for an alternative.
This beginners’ guide will break down what polygel nails are and how they work, as well as some tips on how to care for them. Let’s dive right in!
What are Polygel Nails?
Polygel nails are a type of nail enhancement that uses a gel-like substance to adhere to the natural nail. The polymer is then cured under an LED light, resulting in a strong and flexible nail extension.
PolyGel is the perfect solution for those with short nails who want to make their hands look longer. Unlike traditional nail enhancements, Polygels can be applied as an overlay or used in combination with filing.
PolyGel Nail is the enhancement formula that delivers strong, flexible and feather light nails to nail technicians. Polygel is a revolutionary nail enhancement best described as the hybrid of acrylic and gel.
It has superior durability, but also provides an elasticity that makes it more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time than other alternatives on the market today!
Polygel is a mixture of acrylic powder and clear gel that can be used to fill in cracks. It’s sold much like toothpaste, in tubes.
What to Expect from a Full Set of Polygel
The sculpting process for natural nails is similar to that of acrylics or gel-ish polishes.
- First, you have to shape and file your nail into what might be considered an interesting design before applying the base coat color.
- Next, the cuticle is removed and a buffer pad applied to buff away any rough edges.
- Next, it is important to remove any debris from the nail with a lint-free wipe. To stay safe and clean during this process there should be no oil or dirt on your fingertips as that will cause bacteria build up when they come into contact with sanitized nails!
- First, you need to apply a dehydrator on your natural nails. Next up is either an acid-free primer or gel base coat depending on the brand of Polygel that’s being used!
- Next, the Polygel nails are cured under an LED light for a duration specified by the brand.
- Next up, Polygel! Add a pea-sized amount to your nail plate and wait for it to set before applying more chemicals.
- Next, a brush is dipped into the slip solution and used to pat down Polygels. The shape of these nails can be sculpted with ease; thanks to this slip solution that makes shaping easier than ever before!
- Next, the Polygel nails are cured for 30-60 seconds. This will vary depending on which brand you use!
- The next step in using the ploygel nails is to shape them, buff and wipe off any excess with a lint-free wipe covered in nail care products.
- Next, a gel top coat is applied to give the nails an extra boost.
- Next, the acrylic nails are cured for 30 seconds to 60 seconds.
- Now it’s time to seal in your new nails with a quick cure. After 30-60 seconds, you’ll have a stunning set of beautiful nails. After that, rinse it yet again using a lint-free wipe moistened with nail surface cleanser!
How Do Polygel Nails Work?
Polygel nails work by using a polymer to adhere to the natural nail. This polymer is cured under an LED light, resulting in a strong and flexible nail extension.
The polygel nail system is a two-step process.
- The first step is to apply the polygel to the nail in a thin coat. Once the polygel has dried, you then use a UV light to harden it.
- The second step is to add the nail polish on top of the hardened polygel.
The polygel nail system is a more advanced and longer-lasting version of the traditional acrylic nails.
How Long Do Polygel Nails Last?
Polygel lasts for 21 days before needing maintenance. It’s a completely buff-off system, which means you will need to file it down so that only 10% remains on the nail; this makes up its protective layer and helps prevent breakage during application.
Polygel manicuring lasts up to three weeks, with some people reporting a four-week duration. The longevity will depend on how you maintain your nails and other factors like the length of them as well!
Polygels are more expensive than acrylics and last up to twice as long, but they’re worth every penny.
PolyGel is the superior alternative to acrylic nail, stronger than hard gel and lighter. Polygels will not only last longer but also protect your nails from cracking or breaking in long term use.
Polygels can be an excellent alternative to hard gels for nails and toes because they’re more durable.
Are Polygel Nails Harmful?
You don’t have to worry about damaging your nails with Polygels. You can apply it without any risk of permanently altering the natural shape or color of your fingers!
Once the Polygel has been filed away, your nail tech will then soak off any remaining formula and product with acetone. This process leaves you ready for another round of mani-pedis!
Polygels are amazing! They make your nails look and feel so much lighter, like you’re not wearing anything at all. This is a great way for those who have weak or thinning natural nail beds to still show off their hands without worrying about nail breakage.
What’s more, this enhancement can be used on human or artificial nails! It provides that same brilliant shine and strong texture no matter which type of nails you’re sporting.
What are the Advantages of Polygel Nails?
Polygel nails have several advantages over acrylic or gel nails. The polymer used is much more durable than both traditional products, meaning that polygel extensions will last longer (on average) without chipping or breaking. Polygel nails are also much less likely to cause damage or irritation to the natural nail.
More benefits of using polygel nails are:
- It can last up to four weeks without chipping or peeling.
- The polygel nail system is very flexible. This means that it can be molded into any shape you want, and it won’t crack or break.
- It is also a very light system, so it won’t weigh down your nails.
- The polygel nail system is also very resistant to water and other liquids. This means that you can go swimming or take a shower without having to worry about your nails coming off.
Being able to go swimming or take a shower without having to worry about your nails coming off is something that the polygel nail system has over traditional acrylic nails.
However, one of the disadvantages is that it can be very time-consuming to remove.
- It takes around an hour for each nail to come off, instead of the five minutes it takes for acrylic nails to come off.
- Because polygel nails are made with harmful chemicals, you also need to wear gloves when performing household chores that will expose your hands to cleaners and other highly toxic products.
What Kind of Nail Enhancements Can Be Done With Polygels?
Polygels can be used for a wide range of enhancements, from simple overlays and colored tips all the way up to sculpted designs that resemble stiletto nails.
Gelish gives you so many possibilities to create a design. You can apply Gel-polish colors over the product, or mix it with PolyGel and add some more creativity into your nail art!
Gel and traditional polish have been proven to work well with PolyGel but you can always change your mind by opting for the other type of base. Gels are flexible because they allow color changes, while polishes do not offer this option so it’s up to personal preference if that matters more or less during application time!
If you’re looking for a more natural nail look, try using Gel Polish. Simply apply two coats of your desired color on top of the PolyGel enhancement and let it cure in between each layer!
How to Care for Polygel Nails
Once your polygel nails are in place, there are a few simple things you can do to keep them looking their best:
- Keep your nails hydrated by using a good quality cuticle oil or cream.
- Avoid contact with harsh chemicals (such as acetone) and abrasive surfaces.
- Use a gentle nail brush to clean your nails and remove any debris.
- File your nails in one direction only (from the cuticle to the tip) using a fine-grit file.
- Apply a top coat every other day or so to protect your nails from chipping and fading.
Now that you know how polygel nails work, you can make an informed decision about whether or not you want to get them done.
Remember that polygel nails are more advanced and longer-lasting than traditional acrylic nails, so if you’re looking for a more permanent solution, polygel nails may be the right choice for you.
Comparing Polygel Nails with Other Nail Enhancement Product Lines
Polygel is a hybrid nail enhancement that combines the durability of acrylic nails and elasticity application. But let’s try to discuss about how it is different from other nail enhancement products like acrylic nails or fake nails, and the rest in the market today.
- First off, Polygel nails are not as brittle as acrylic nails and as a result, they are less likely to chip or crack. They also do not need to be filed down like acrylic nails do so they are less likely to cause damage to your natural nails.
- Secondly, Polygel nails can be applied much more quickly than other nail enhancements. This is because the Polygel dries quickly compared to other forms of enhancements, which require more time and nail glue (for fake nails) to dry.
- Thirdly, Polygel nails are much less likely to tear or tear off with normal wear-and-tear than most other types of enhancements like acrylic nails, gel nails, and fake nails.
- Fourthly, unlike other nail enhancements that use a UV light to harden them, Polygel nails do not require a UV lamp in order to set the glue and bond it to your natural nail bed. This eliminates the need for a separate step when applying Polygel nails.
In short, even though both Polygel nails and acrylic nails are enhancements, Polygel nails have some clear advantages over acrylic nails: they are less likely to chip or crack, they can be applied more quickly, and they are less likely to tear or tear off.
So if you’re looking for a durable and quick nail enhancement, then Polygel nails may be the right choice for you.
Types of Polygel Manicures
There are three types of polygel manicures: traditional, sculpted, and overlay.
Traditional polygel nails are created by coating the natural nail with a thin layer of polygel, then shaping and molding it to the desired look. This type of manicure is best for those who want a natural looking enhancement that lasts up to six weeks.
Sculpted polygel nails are created by applying a thick layer of polygel over the natural nail, then carving it to form hills and valleys. This is better for those with stronger natural nails because the polygel material is thicker than traditional polygel.
Overlay polygel manicures are created by applying a thin layer of polygel over the natural nail then applying a sculpted coating to form hills and valleys. This is best for those looking for strength without sacrificing thickness, but not wanting to have super thick nails.
Polygel manicures are the most durable option because they’re made with a polyester resin that can be shaped, filed, buffed, and polished just like regular nail polish. The only difference is, polygel manicures won’t chip, smudge, discolor, or break for up to six weeks!
There are also other types of polygel manicures we can include, such as the fill-in, the pink and white nails and the sculpted extension.
Fill-in polygel nails are applied over the top of your existing natural nails. This is a great option for those who want to add strength and length to their nails without having to completely remove their old manicure.
Pink and white polygel nails are created by applying a thin layer of pink polygel to the natural nail, then curing it under a UV light. Once the pink layer is dry, a layer of white polygel is applied and cured. This gives your nails a two-toned look and can last up to four weeks.
Sculpted extension polygel nails are created by applying a thick layer of polygel over the natural nail and then shaping it into an extension. This type of polygel is best for those who want longer, more durable nails than traditional polygel manicures without having to visit a nail salon.
What Are Needed for Polygel Nails
PolyGel for nails is a combination of the best features from both acrylics and gel products. As such, it needs to be used in conjunction with your favorite nail colors!
So here’s what you need:
- A PolyGel acrylic nail brush – This brush is designed to help you apply the PolyGel evenly and smoothly.
- PolyGel colors – Make sure the color is compatible with PolyGel.
- Nail prep solutions – These are the standard prep solutions that you use to clean nails or remove old nail polish.
- Gel base and top coat – These are essential for any gel nails, and should be used with PolyGel products, too.
- A nail buffer – A good buffer is key to keeping your nails healthy and shining.
- An emery board or nail file – This is used to shape your nails.
- A small spatula – This is used for scooping out PolyGel.
- A UV-LED nail lamp – This is used to cure the PolyGel.
- Nail brush cleaning solution – Cleaning your nail brush regularly will help keep it sanitary.
What is a UV-LED Nail Lamp?
UV-LED Nail Lamp cures PolyGel in seconds.
Poly Gel is applied using a special PolyGel Brush and cured using a UV-LED nail lamp. The curing light rapidly polymerizes the monomer, forming a strong adhesive bond between the natural nails and gel formula.
A painted layer of traditional gel polish does not provide the same strength and durability as PolyGel. A Poly Gel manicure provides a natural looking finish with long lasting results.
UV-LED gel lamps cure the new generation of UV-Free gels in less than 30 seconds. The LED lamp is simply wiped with an alcohol solution after use, then stored away until next time. It’s that easy!
What is a Polygel Slip Solutions For Nails?
A polygel slip solution is a type of nail polish that is designed to provide a protective barrier between the natural nails and artificial nails. It is made up of a polymeric resin that forms a thin film over the nails, which helps to protect them from damage and moisture.
Polygel slip solutions are also effective at preventing staining of the natural nails, and they can help to seal in the color of artificial nails. Additionally, they can help to reduce the likelihood of lifting or separation of artificial nails from the natural nails.
How to Use a Polygel Slip Solution
To use a polygel slip solution, first clean and dry your nails. Then apply a thin coat of the solution to each nail and allow it to dry. Once the polygel has dried, apply a coat of your artificial nails or acrylic nails, then gently file off any excess gel that is on the surface of the natural nail. Continue this process until you have applied enough coats of artificial nails for your desired result.
Polygel slip solutions can be used with all types of artificial nails, including acrylic nails, gel nails, and nail extensions.
Benefits of Using a Polygel Slip Solution
There are several benefits of using a polygel slip solution:
- They help to protect the natural nails from damage and moisture.
- They prevent staining of the natural nails.
- They help to seal in the color of artificial nails.
- They reduce the likelihood of lifting or separation of artificial nails from the natural nails.
- They can be used with all types of artificial nails.
- Polygel slip solutions are a great way to keep your natural nails healthy and looking their best. Try using one today and see the difference it makes!
What is an Alternative to a Polygel Slip Solution?
The 70% rubbing alcohol will clean your PolyGel brush and prevent it from sticking just like the slip solution that comes with this brand of PolyGel.
However, for some people this is not enough and they want to make sure their brush will never stick again after using the 70% rubbing alcohol (this is probably because they tend to apply too much of the slip solution). The 50/50 glycerin and water work great for this purpose.
Soap is an alternative, but it is not as effective unless you wash your brush several times with soap and rinse it very thoroughly. One advantage of the soap solution is that it can be used to clean out small nooks and crannies in your PolyGel nails, like under the textured surfaces where there may still be some tacky gel (otherwise you might get lifting of the gel on the textured parts of your nails).
Washing with soap and water is also a good idea if you wish to remove your PolyGels without having to use acetone, since acetone breaks down the adhesion of PolyGel.
Conclusion
PolyGel slip solutions are a great way to keep your natural nails healthy and looking their best. Try using one today and see the difference it makes! Polygel slip solutions are a type of nail polish that is designed to provide a protective barrier between the natural nails and artificial nails.
It is made up of a polymeric resin that forms a thin film over the nails, which helps to protect them from damage and moisture. Polygel slip solutions are also effective at preventing staining of the natural nails, and they can help to seal in the color of artificial nails. Additionally, they can help to reduce the likelihood of lifting or separation of artificial fake nails from the natural nails.
