What are Soft Gel Nails? Essential Information Regarding the Acrylic Tip Alternative

If you appreciate traditional acrylic tips, you might be curious about the comparison with soft gel extensions. Although there are notable similarities, the two are fundamentally distinct regarding their material composition and application methods. Continue reading to discover the intricacies of soft gel nail extensions. Who possesses knowledge? Consider emulating Bachik's example and executing the transition independently.

What are soft gel nail extensions?

Soft gel nails resemble traditional press-on nails, as they are pre-shaped to entirely envelop the natural nail. In contrast to artificial nails, soft gels do not contain plastic, resins, or polymers. Moreover, in contrast to press-on nails, they do not necessitate adhesive.

What distinguishes acrylic tips from soft gel extensions?

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Numerous distinctions exist. Which is the most important one? Acrylic nails are composed of plastic. They are formulated using a combination of monomer liquid and polymer powder. Numerous individuals utilize acrylics due to the poor growth or fragility of their natural nails. The application of acrylics requires a minimum of thirty minutes, while their removal can be a protracted procedure. They must be filed, enveloped in cotton saturated with acetone, and subsequently encased in metal.

Conversely, soft gel nails are lighter and more pliable, constructed from a flexible gel akin to that utilized in gel polish. They are utilized following the completion of a dry manicure, as a conventional "wet" manicure may inhibit the adhesion of the gel extensions. When done properly, soft gel extensions are durable and cause minimal harm to natural nails. They are affixed using a sort of gel polish that functions as an adhesive.

As soft gel nail extensions are pre-shaped, the manicurist has increased time to explore various styles and finishes. Soft gel nails can be coated with colored gel polish or standard polish and are suitable for various decorative enhancements. The tip is excised at the base, followed by soaking the nail in acetone for 10 to 15 minutes. While it is possible to remove soft gels at home, most specialists advise seeking the assistance of a manicurist at a salon.

Instructions for applying soft gel nails

As stated by the brand Aprés, favored by Bachik, soft gel nails can endure for up to four weeks without chipping or lifting, provided they are placed correctly. While the brand is accessible in salons, it moreover provides kits containing ingredients and instruments for the application of soft gel extensions at home. The brand advises the following method for application:

1. File natural nails to the preferred height and length.

2. Carefully retract the cuticle, then elevate it from the nail plate with the cuticle pusher.

3. Exfoliate the calluses surrounding the nail.

4. Utilize a 100/180 grit buffing file to refine the nail surface in preparation for adhesion.

5. Select the appropriate tip size, ensuring that there are no gaps on the sides.

6. Upon applying a thin layer of Extend Gel, position the gel nails at a 45-degree angle and apply gentle pressure to ensure thorough coverage of the sides.

7. Position hands beneath an LED bulb for 60 seconds.