One of the prime requisites of an excellent manicure is naturally long and robust nails. But, does every woman on this planet have this luxury? No, they do not. So, does that mean they cannot have a decent-looking manicure? No, because women with short nails can resort to acrylic extensions and press-ons to add the necessary charm to their nails and ensure a high-quality manicure.
However, acrylic nails come with their merits and demerits. While these extensions last longer than other manicures, they can damage your nails, primarily if you use improper application procedures. Besides, poor-quality acrylic nails have harmful chemicals such as MMA (methyl methacrylate). The removal process can be harsh because of intense drilling. So, is there an alternative? Fortunately, there is an excellent option available in gel-x nail extensions. This blog discusses all aspects you need to know about gel-x.
What is Gel X Nail Extension?
Compared to other manicures, gel-x is a recent procedure created in 2017. It is a sophisticated procedure made of soft gel. Hence, it is safe for use on your nails.
The Prime Difference Between Gel X and Acrylic Extensions
The acrylic nail extension procedure involves attaching the extension to the tip of the nail to elongate it. In contrast, the gel-x attachment is different because you press it close to the nail base. Hence, it is a comparatively more robust procedure.
Secondly, the soft gel-x attachment is a self-nail care procedure. It is a soak-off procedure that aligns well with the natural nail. So, the gel-x manicure is a more straightforward process than acrylic nails.
The health advantage is amongst the prime benefits. Gel-X nails do not contain harmful chemical compounds like MMA, casting resins, formaldehyde, toluene, camphor, etc. You generally encounter these toxic products in acrylic powder.
Removing soft gel nail attachments is comparatively easier than acrylic nails because it does not involve intense drilling. Instead, you soak these extensions in acetone to remove them. Thus, this procedure does not damage the nail bed.
The acrylic nail procedure creates a lot of dust due to drilling. Besides, one has to protect themselves from toxic fumes during the process. However, gel-x does not require any such protection.
Can You Have the Gel-X Manicure at Home?
While the Gel-x extension is a comfortable procedure, it is advisable to have it at the nail salon because the technicians are qualified persons capable of doing it perfectly. Compared to acrylic extensions, the procedure is different. You do not use nail glue for pressing on the gel-x extension. Instead, you use a polish adhesive that requires curing under the UV lamp. So, if you do not have the necessary tools, you should not try this procedure at home.
Secondly, the nail salon is a better option because it allows for maintaining cleanliness. Salon technicians use proper preparation methods to ensure a perfect job. In addition, the sanitary practices followed in salons are excellent because they clean the workspace regularly, use sanitized tools, and disinfect the place. Thus, a salon is a better and safer environment for having a gel-x manicure.
Nevertheless, you can go for a DIY manicure if you are trained well and capable of following proper nail hygiene.
Can You Have the Gel-X Nail Length Equal to the Acrylic Extensions?
Yes, it is possible to have sufficiently-long gel-x nail extensions matching their acrylic counterparts. Today, you also have gel-x extensions available in different shapes and sizes.
Are Gel-X Nail Extensions Expensive?
Compared to acrylic nail extensions, the gel-x manicure is expensive. Generally, it can cost up to three times as much as an acrylic extension job. However, the younger generation today does not worry about the cost factor. The Gel-x procedure is technically and cosmetically better than the acrylic nail extension. Hence, you have many women switching over to gel-x from traditional acrylic.
Are Gel-X Nails Only for Those with Short Nails?
People generally believe that gel-x extensions are for women possessing short or stubby nails. In addition, many people feel that these extensions are best suited for nail biters. However, recent usage trends have proved that it is not so. Regardless of her nail length, any woman can have gel-x extensions to enhance her manicure.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Gel-X Manicures?
While gel-x nails have various advantages, they have a couple of drawbacks. One is the use of UV radiation to cure gel applications. Everyone knows that prolonged exposure to UV light can cause skin issues, including dermatitis and skin cancer. Secondly, the gel-x removal procedure necessitates an acetone soak. Acetone can dehydrate your skin and force you to take remedial measures.
Final Thoughts
Gel-x extensions have become popular recently because they allow women possessing short nails to look as attractive as their long-nailed counterparts. So, you should give this procedure a try and have a great manicure, a combination of a nail extension and a gel manicure.