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
Why is it that most of my acrylic clients are having lifting by the cuticle area?
Why is it that most of my acrylic clients are having lifting by the cuticle area? I prep properly, removing all the oils from the nail beds, and I prime twice. I’ve even considered using an 80-grit file. What can I do or what am I doing wrong?... read more
My clear and acrylic nails appear dull or frosted. What am I doing wrong?
After I apply clear or natural acrylic nails, they don’t appear clear. They have an almost frosted or dull look. What am I doing wrong? Am I applying too much?... read more
How to I keep wraps from lifting on a client with poor circulation?
I have a client with very poor circulation, and therefore, very cold hands, making it difficult to keep her silk overlays from lifting. I have already tried pH balancers and extra silk and resin, but the lifting continues to occur. What else could I try that might work?... read more
If I don't etch the nails before applying acrylics, do I need to apply more primer?
During my training for fills, I was taught to etch the natural nail regrowth for the strongest hold and to prevent lifting. Yet, I recently read that a technician did not etch the nail because it causes so much damage. I agree, but wonder what the major difference would be without etching? Should I apply more primer?... read more
Should I remove the gel overlay from my client's damaged nail?
I have a client who wears gels over her natural nails. She hit her nail really hard and although it didn’t come off, it did bleed underneath the nail plate. Should I remove the overlay from the nail? Should I be worried about infection setting in?... read more
Is it common to have to change products or procedures depending on the weather?
Is it common to have to change products or procedures (including changing the ration of the products) depending on the weather? Is it possible for perspiration to make the product lift?... read more
Can you over-cure gel?
Can you over-cure gel?... read more
Why do some of my clients feel a burning sensation when I use my e-file?
I have only had my license for six months, and I have definitely found that my e-file cuts down on time. The only problem is when I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. I make sure I’m not applying too much pressure. I have my RPM set at 15,000 and usually use a medium-grit sanding band. What can I do about this? Should I go back to carbide bits?... read more
Why do some people wear gels over acrylic extensions?
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions. Why do they do this, and how do you do this? Is there anything you have to be careful of during the application?... read more
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions? Why do they do this, and how do you do this?
I’ve heard that some people wear gels over acrylic extensions? Why do they do this, and how do you do this? Is there anything you have to be careful of during the application?... read more
When I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. What can I do about this?
I have only had my license for six months, and I have definitely found that my e-file cuts down on time. The only problem is when I’m reducing the acrylic to take off old product, some of my clients feel a burning sensation. I make sure I’m not applying too much pressure. I have my RPM set at 15,000 and usually use a medium-grit sanding band. What can I do about this? Should I go back to carbide bits?... read more
Myth Busters: Will suntan lotion mixed with the ocean's salty water turn gels to goo?
I heard that if you go into the ocean with a lot of suntan lotion on, the small amount of acetone in the suntan lotion interacts with the salt water and can run down your fingers and turn your gels to goo. Is this true?... read more