The first thing I notice is that you buff the nails. You actually get much better results with gels if you do not buff. Trust me, I know it’s a hard habit to break, but buffing takes up to an extra 10 minutes, and it doesn’t help the gels at all, so it’s better not to do it. The other thing is your client might be washing her hands before you apply the gel top coat. Most soap has oils or some type of conditioning agent to help with dry hands, but this can work against the gel and explain the separation or “hole” you’re seeing. Also, be careful about using a quick acetone swipe to prep the nail before the gel top coat. It can eat away at the acrylic underneath and cause little air bubbles or heat spikes. — Amanda Dodge is an educator and mentor for Young Nails.
Technique
More FAQ
How do I get a high-gloss shine on my pink-and-whites?
One of my biggest problems with pink and- whites is achieving a high-gloss shine. Over the last few months I have tried all kinds of files and buffers, but I still cannot achieve what I want.... read more
Are there special considerations when cutting elderly clients' toenails?
The quick of the nail grows more closely to the nail tip as we age. Consequently, it becomes easier to nick a client if you cut too closely.... read more
How can I get the same results from a file versus a sanding band when prepping the nail?
How can I get the same results from a file versus a sanding band when prepping the nail?... read more
How can you help clients with deformities of the feet to feel comfortable about receiving procedures?
How can you help clients with deformities of the feet to feel comfortable about receiving procedures?... read more
How do I advise clients to care for their nails that were damaged by improper drill use?
How do I advise clients to care for their nails that were damaged by improper drill use?... read more
What causes the natural nail to separate from the acrylic at the free edge?
What causes the natural nail to separate from the acrylic at the free edge?... read more
My pedicure client has deep cracks in her heels. Is it safe to work on her?
I have had pedicure clients (usually elderly) who have deep cracks in their heels. The cracks don’t bleed or appear to be an open sore. Is it safe to work on these clients? Is there anything the client or I can do to start the healing process?... read more
Is it best to have a toenail removed completely if you suffer from chronic ingrown toenails?
Is it best to have a toenail removed completely if you suffer from chronic ingrown toenails?... read more
When applying small wet beads of acrylic in the cuticle area, wouldn’t this make your ratio off and cause lifting?
I’m a newbie and I’m confused. When applying small wet beads of acrylic in the cuticle area, wouldn’t this make your ratio off and cause lifting because of overly wet beads? Should I use the same ratio for all three beads?... read more
When starting a pedicure, do you soak the client’s feet in disinfectant for at least five minutes or just soapy water?
When starting a pedicure, do you soak the client’s feet in disinfectant for at least five minutes or just soapy water?... read more
I have a client who has been working on her feet for 36 years and is now developing painful calluses. How can I ease her pain?
I have a client who has been working on her feet for 36 years and is now developing painful calluses. How can I ease her pain? What’s best for calluses like these?... read more
I think I may have scaly skin that's caused by something called two foot/one hand syndrome. What do I do?
In the November 2002 issue you mentioned that scaly skin can be caused by something called two foot/one hand syndrome. I believe that I have just that. (It’s awful.) What do I do?... read more