Are you jealous of those shiny, long-lasting manicures all over Instagram? We get it, but let’s face it—nobody has got time for the hassle involved. Whether you are an expert nail technician or a DIY specialist, you need a speedy solution. Enter builder gel for nails.
Builder gel for nails is a thicker gel polish designed to add length, thickness, or strength to your natural nails or enhancements.
Curious? Keep reading as we spill all the details on builder gel nails so you can level up your manicure game for your next salon visit.
What Is Builder Gel For Nails?
Builder gel is your option when you want to add length or thickness or strengthen your nails, much like the services offered at nail salons in Los Angeles, California.
Put some on your natural nails for a chip-free look, or pair it with nail tips for some fab extensions. You will mostly find this gel strutting around in clear, nude, or light pink.
For those with nails that tend to give up easily, builder gel is like a trusty assistant, acting as a solid base coat.
Top it off with your favorite gel color for some charm. The Builder Gel in a Pot is not only used for looks; it is a leveler, a healer for the nail-injured, and a capper.
Types Of Builder Gel
Here are the only two types of builder gel:
- Soft Gel: Soft builder gel is a kind of nail enhancer that you can put on your natural nails for a non-chip overlay. It’s a thick gel polish that can beef up your nails, making them stronger, thicker, or longer.
- Hard Gel: Hard gel is a nail enhancement product for those looking to add strength, shape, and length to their nails. It is best among the crowd for its versatility in creating everything from a natural look to intricate 3D designs.
Hard Gel Vs Soft Gel
Builder gel grows with you, just like acrylic nails, so it’s like getting the best of both worlds. If you are looking for the tough option, hard gel is your pick.
It’s not a quitter; you cannot just soak it off; you have got to file it down. Considering the acrylic nails cost, builder gel offers a durable alternative for those seeking a long-lasting nail solution.
On the flip side, the soft gel is the chill one. It has got that just-right mix of strong and flexible, perfect for natural nails or not-too-long extensions.
Also, you can wave goodbye to it with some pure acetone. It is the gel that bends but does not break, offering flexibility that other gels cannot match.
| Features | Hard Builder Gel | Soft Builder Gel |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Less flexible | More flexible, ideal for natural nails or shorter extensions. |
| Suitability | Great for nail extensions | Best for natural nails |
| Maintenance | Requires infilling as it grows out | Can be infilled or soaked off |
| Removal | Must be filed off | Can be removed with acetone |
| Durability | Extremely durable | Less durable |
Benefits Of Builder Gel
The following are the advantages of builder gel:
1. It Requires Low Maintainence
Once you put on some builder gel, you are set. There are no more chips or peels like with old-school nail polish, and it laughs in the face of water and daily wear and tear.
This means you can rock your awesome nails longer without fussing over touch-ups or fixes.
2. Easy to Apply
Applying builder gel is simple, especially for newbies, and you can expect such user-friendly products at a nail salon in Savannah, GA.
This magic stuff levels itself out on your nail, leaving no residue behind. What’s more, compared to old-school nail polish, you get extra time to play around and get your nails just right.
3. Smoothness
Builder gel not only makes your nails look way cooler with its smooth vibe, but it is also a piece of cake to use! You can put it straight onto your nails or add some tips for a bit of extra flair.
Is Builder Gel Better Than Acrylic: Builder Gel Vs Acrylic?
Choosing the right option depends on your needs and how well you apply the product. Builder gels are simpler to use and gentler on your natural nails than acrylics. Yet, acrylic nails offer more options for detailed designs and shapes.
Both can last between 4 to 6 weeks with proper application and care. Acrylics tend to cost more due to the more complex application process.
The price for either also varies based on the salon and the type of product used.
| Builder Gel | Acrylic Gel |
|---|---|
| Easier to apply | More complex application process |
| Less damaging to natural nails | Can be more damaging |
| Limited design options | More options for intricate designs |
| Less expensive | More expensive |
| Softer, more flexible finish | Harder, more durable finish |
How To Use Builder Gel
- Prep Time: Start by cleaning, filing, and polishing your nails. Gently push back and trim the cuticles, then wipe the nail with a lint-free pad soaked in nail cleanser or acetone.
- Base Coat: If your builder gel demands a base coat or primer, apply it now. Cure it under your nail lamp if necessary. No primer? No problem! Skip this step and get straight to the fun part.
- Builder Gel Application: Got a bottled builder gel? Paint it on like Picasso! If you are using a pot, grab a nail brush and scoop up a small amount. Avoid the cuticle area and make sure to cover the free edge. Give it a few seconds to self-level and ensure an even application.
- Curing Time: Put your nails under an LED/UV lamp. Check the instructions on your builder gel to find out exactly how long they need to bask in the glow.
- Second Coat (Optional): Need more? Apply a second coat and cure again.
- Clean Up: Use a lint-free wipe and isopropyl alcohol to expel any stickiness.
- File Away: Shape those nails to perfection and smooth out any thick spots.
- Color or Top Coat: Clean the nail once more, then apply your top coat for that glossy finish. Feeling colorful? Add your gel polish and cure again before the top coat.
- Finishing Touches: After all the gel is applied and cured, your manicure masterpiece is complete! Add a dab of cuticle oil and share some aftercare tips with your client.
How To Remove Builder Gel
- Trimming Time: Start by giving your nails a quick trim with nail clippers. Be careful not to cut too close to your skin. If you have long natural nails, do not cut them down too much.
- Filing Fun: Grab your nail file and start filing away back and forth across your nails. This part might take a bit, so a fresh, sharp file will be your best friend. Do not forget to dust off your nails now and then to check your progress. Keep at it until there is just a thin layer of gel left.
- Buffing Basics: Now, it is time to smooth things out with a nail buffer. It is totally fine to leave a thin layer of gel on your nails as they grow out to keep them protected. Use the buffer to even out any remaining gel and get rid of any scratches or marks. Want some extra shine? Polish your nails with the white side of the buffer. You can even throw on a gel polish base coat and top coat or go for regular nail polish.
- Oil Up: Lastly, remember to apply cuticle oil. Keeping up with daily cuticle oil applications is key to having strong, healthy nails.
What Is Builder Gel FAQs
Is builder gel safe to use?
Yes, builder gel is safe for your nails. The only damage that can occur is from incorrect removal of the gel extensions.
How long does builder gel last?
Builder gel can last up to three weeks. However, the longevity depends on the brand, the quality of the application, and how well the previous coat is removed.
Does builder gel damage nails?
Builder gel can damage nails if it’s not applied correctly. Proper application techniques are important to avoid any harm.
Does builder gel need UV light?
Builder gel requires curing under an LED or UV light to harden and become durable. It’s a great option for those seeking long-lasting nail perfection.
Conclusion
Builder gel is a top choice in the world of nail care, offering durability and strength for stunning, long-lasting manicures.
It is safe when applied and removed correctly, can last up to three weeks, and requires UV or LED light for curing.
Whether you are a nail enthusiast or a professional, incorporating builder gel into your routine can promote your nail competition, ensuring your nails not only look fabulous but also stay healthy.
