Hard Vs. Soft: A Closer Look At Gels
Before there was gel-polish, there was gel. Making its debut in the mid-1980s, this product was designed as an enhancement for clients who desired a glossy, durable finish. While many clients might think there is a big difference between gel and acrylic, gels actually rely on ingredients from the acrylic family. Perhaps the tougher distinction to make is between hard (traditional) and soft (soak-off) gels.
by Beth Livesay
The Latest and Greatest Gels: Hard/Traditional
These companies prove it’s not hard to find a strong, glossy traditional gel.
The Latest and Greatest Gels: Soft/Soak-Off
These brands have a soft spot for soak-off gels.
Young Nails ManiQ with Pigments
When mixed with acrylics, Synergy Gel, and ManiQ colors, the Amethyst and Gold pigments can be used to create pearlescent combinations.
Striplac
With hot, red tones to nude hues, each color is enticing with the creamy consistency and easy application.
Barefoot
It is an elastic UV/LED gel, which adapts to the movements of the toe.
Summer Glitter Gels
They are bright, bold, and ready to be seen in the sunshine.
Hand-Soaking Bowls
The bowls, for hand-soaking in nail salons, come in black, scarlet, and ivory.
Wedding Collection
The Artistic Colour Inspires Wedding Collection includes an assortment of each for the timeless bride.
Foil Remover Wraps
Each pack comes with 100 wraps.
Modern Folklore Collection
The collection can be used to create intricate patterns, and embellished or embossed treasures.
Matte-It Top Coat
The unique formulation that will not chip or peel and cures to a durable hard tacky surface.
Gelaze by China Glaze 2-in-1 Gel Polish Application
From the creators of China Glaze comes Gelaze, a new gel-polish system featuring fewer steps than the traditional gel manicure. You Might Also Like: China Glaze's Gelaze (demo)
Troubleshooter: Foil Nail Art with Gel
In this video from the NAILS Troubleshooter series, Light Elegance educator Loni Preato shows how to apply foil on gel.
Powerbond Bonding Base Coat
The bonding base coat is also available in pink.
Combined Gel
Compatible with both UV and LED light, the product is a base and top coat in one bottle.
Foggy London Collection
The collection features five new colors and two former colors from the original line.