Have you heard about the TikTok trend of gel-curing press-on nails? Well, the reason for the hype is that it can extend the wear time of your press-ons. So it might feel that the idea of using builder gel as nail glue for your press-on nails would be wonderful and save you both time and money.
But this trend is as controversial as many other TikTok trends. There are many queries in the minds of nail enthusiasts: Can you use builder gel as nail glue? Is it safe to gel cure press-on nails? Is that right for you? Are there any risks?
If you are also dealing with any of these questions popping up in your mind, we are here to help you.
Can You Use Builder Gel as Nail Glue? Is it Safe to Gel Cure Press-On Nails?
If you are into nails and love getting professional nail extensions done, you surely would be aware of the versatility of a builder gel. From sculpting fake nail enhancements to creating 3D nail art and even as a strengthening treatment, builder gels come in handy for nail technicians at their manicure stations.
But you’d have noticed that even professional manicurists use nail glue to attach the fake acrylic nail tips before layering them with builder gels for sculpting. Wonder why? If it is possible to use the same gel as glue for attaching fake nails, why are they investing in a different product? But then, if builder gel cannot be used in place of nail glue, then what about the booming TikTok trend?
No, we are not confusing you! We are here to solve all your dilemmas. Let’s begin with understanding the basics.
What is Gel-Curing?
If you ever got a gel manicure done at a nail salon, you know that they use a lamp to harden the gels they put on your nails. This is what gel curing is – a type of nail application that involves applying a soft gel on the nail surface and ‘curing’ it under a UV or LED light. This approach sets and dries the gel for a long-lasting manicure.
Now the trend says, that if you want your press-on nails to last longer, use the same gel instead of nail glue to affix the press-on tips to your nails. To make it work, apply a layer of the soft gel underneath the press-on nail, just like you would apply a nail glue. Then align the tip with the natural nail and place it under a UV/LED lamp to gel-cure the entire application.
Though the trend says that a builder gel helps adhere press-on nails better, let’s understand whether it is advisable to use it, especially for your DIY manicures.
Can You Use Builder Gel as Nail Glue to Gel-Cure Press-On Nails?
Well, nail glues and builder gels are designed to serve different purposes. While builder gels are meant for sculpting fake nail extensions, nail glues are to be used for affixing artificial acrylic tips to natural nails. Let’s look at the key differences between them:
Builder gel, also known as builder-in-a-bottle (BIAB) is a thick clear gel used for building artificial nails. It is used to add extra strength and thickness to natural nails and form an apex for flat nails. It is also used with acrylic nail tips to lengthen and strengthen the nails.
On the other hand, nail glues are adhesive liquids that come in self-applicator packaging. Nail glue is used to bond artificial nails to the natural nail surface using a cyanoacrylate formula. It is available for professional as well as home use and works with all kinds of acrylics and press-on nails.
In many ways, BIAB is similar to liquid nail glue. In fact, it is a less hazardous alternative considering the strong chemicals in glues. Besides, builder gel dries (or cures) faster than nail glue and provides a strong and secure adhesion. However, it can be more expensive than store-bought nail glue and you may also need to make yourself familiar with the tools and techniques required to use the gel.
So which one should you use for glue-on nails? Well, in our opinion, since the two products have been designed differently, they should be used as per their properties rather than switching between them. However, it is recommended that you analyze the pros and cons of both products and choose the one that is best suited for you.
Pros and Cons
There are some benefits of using builder gel as nail glue:
1) Gel-curing provides better and firmer adhesion for press-on nails.
2) Press-on nails become long-lasting when gel-cured and can last for more than 4 weeks without becoming loose.
3) Your nails look more professionally done. Builder gel gives a faux appearance of gel extensions to your press-ons.
4) Gel-curing adds strength and durability to the final result as builder gels have a stronger grip on acrylic tips than average nail glues.
However, there are some downsides of gel-curing press-on nails:
1) Builder gel can be difficult to handle during application if it gets on the cuticles or inside the skin.
2) Over-exposure to UV rays from the curing lamp may have adverse effects. Other than tanning, prolonged exposure to UV radiation may cause potential health damage.
3) Gel-curing press-on nails may raise some safety concerns about fungal nail infections. Since builder gels are thicker than nail glues, even a thin coat may leave some gap between the nail surface and the fake tip creating space for fungus buildup and moisture accumulation.
4) If the UV light doesn’t penetrate the press-on nail due to opaque colors and multiple coats, the gel will not cure completely which may result in potential allergies.
5) Those prone to skin or nail sensitivity may experience allergic reactions when the gel is in direct contact with the natural nail under the press-on for so long.
6) You cannot remove gel-cured press-on nails by soaking them in warm water and gently popping them off as you would do with glue-on nails. You need to soak them in pure acetone causing dryness of the natural nails and skin. Besides, aggressively filing off the gel from nails will result in further damage and brittleness.
How to Gel-Cure Your Press-On Nails?
Now that you are aware of the benefits and drawbacks of using builder gel as nail glue and still want to gel-cure your press-on nails, we suggest you follow some safety measures and proper techniques to stay safe. Ensure the following when you want to DIY your gel-cured press-on manicure:
1) Start off by lathering your hands with SPF
Just as you don’t miss your sunscreen before going out in the sun, make sure you make your fingers and hands UV-proof by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you begin your manicure to protect them from the harmful radiations of the UV lamp.
2) Don’t forget the prep
Like any other manicure, your gel-cured press-on mani also requires you to work on a clean nail surface after removing any product and oil deposits, pushing back your cuticles, trimming and filing your nails, and buffing the nail surface for added roughness.
3) Prep the press-on
It is recommended that you roughen up the underside of your press-on nail tip for better adherence to the gel.
4) Layer the gel
Apply a thin coat of builder gel on the underside of the press-on tip. It is not advisable to use the product directly on your natural surface. Also, BIAB offers better control over product application than pot packaging.
5) Press the press-on
Align the gel-applied tip to your natural nail closest to your cuticle without touching it. Place it carefully and apply gentle pressure ensuring no gaps or pockets are formed.
6) Cure
Hold on to the nail with the same pressure and in the same position while curing it under the UV or LED lamp. Preferably gel cure your press-ons one finger at a time to avoid ruining the gel. Cure for 30-60 seconds and finish off with a top coat for added shine and durability.
Wrapping Up
While gel-curing can offer better adhesion for press-on nails, it is crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits. Builder gel, with its strong bonding properties, can indeed be used as an alternative to traditional nail glue. However, its application and curing process requires precision and care to avoid damage to the natural nail. Additionally, the compatibility of builder gel with press-on nails may vary, so it is essential that you test the products together before full application. Ultimately, it is your decision to use builder gel as a nail glue and you should consider your nail health before going ahead.
With the right techniques and products, you can achieve stunning results while keeping your nails safe and healthy. So, experiment wisely, and may your nail journey be as beautiful as your nails themselves.
