Nail extensions are a procedure that has become extremely popular over the last 10 years. Not every girl can afford to grow her nails to the desired length, so many go to masters for nail extensions. The main material for nail extensions is a special gel, with which you can easily create nails of any length. One of the most popular types of gel is hard gel, which is perfect for long wear and allows nails to look flawless.

So how do you keep your manicure in perfect condition? Read on to find out everything you need to know about hard gel manicures.

Hard gel is a nail extension product designed to cover and lengthen the natural nail. It hardens under the influence of an LED or UV lamp, is highly durable, resistant to chipping and more flexible than acrylic extensions.

The term ‘hard’ refers to the solvent resistance of the gel - it cannot be removed with acetone or conventional nail polish removers, so it must be filed off. Most hard gels come in cans and are applied to natural nails with a brush. Solid gel can be modelled, shaped and corrected like acrylics.

Hard gel and soft gel have a lot in common. Both are jelly-like build-up products that are applied in the same way: on moulds, tips or as a coating on natural nails. The main difference between the two is the removal process. Hard gels are solvent resistant, while soft gels can be removed by soaking, where cotton discs soaked in acetone are wrapped around the nails to remove the gel. This makes the removal of hard gels a more difficult and risky process: natural nails can be severely damaged if not removed properly. This process should only be performed by a qualified professional.

Another difference lies in the packaging. Most hard gels come in jars, whereas soft gels are often packaged in bottles with brushes, resembling traditional nail polishes.

Gel application methods vary depending on the desired result. For example, if it is necessary to increase the length of the nail, hard gel is used, which is applied and formed over a special nail mould (cone-shaped stickers) or tipis, previously attached to the natural nail. In both cases, a special gel brush is used to create the desired structure and shape. Then the gel is polymerised in an LED or UV lamp, after which the nail is shaped, filed and covered with topcoat and gel varnish.

This is where hard gel shows its advantages: unlike other nail extension methods, hard gel can last up to a month before requiring correction. It is important to visit the salon or see a specialist at least once a month, although the ideal time between visits is three weeks.

Especially with prolonged wear, the top, or strongest part of the hard gel nail, grows back and the nail becomes unbalanced. When the hard gel is not properly supported, it is easier to damage it or get a painful deep crack in the nail bed when accidentally bumped.

If the material is used correctly and the instructions are followed, there should be no problems during its application. However, it is important to contact a professional who is well versed in the systems and lamps designed for these procedures. Improper polymerisation of any UV product can result in exposure to uncured components and cause potential sensitivity. The technician must also be able to properly remove hard gel. Hard gel must be removed with a file, and if not done correctly, the natural nail bed and nail plate can be damaged.

Problems can occur after the procedure if gel nails are not properly cared for. Hard gel nails last longer and are less prone to delamination. However, because of this, many female clients postpone salon visits for proper care. This is harmful to the natural nail as it becomes unbalanced and heavy at the tip, putting extra stress on the nail.

Hard gel is an impenetrable nail strengthening product that does not allow moisture to be released and absorb beneficial oils. As a result, nails can become dry, brittle and prone to damage. However, regular care, including the use of cuticle oils and hand creams, can minimise these problems.

However, the impermeability of gel also has a protective aspect. Any coating on the nails can be considered protective, as it preserves the health of the natural nails and creates a barrier against daily wear and tear. The health of the nails can only be affected if the coating is not applied or removed correctly, for example, if it is torn off, peeled off or aggressively filed off the natural nail. This leads to mechanical damage.

As we have previously discussed, hard gel requires removal with a specialised nail machine as it does not dissolve or degrade in acetone. Improper removal can cause damage to natural nails due to intense and aggressive filing. Therefore, we strongly recommend entrusting the process of hard gel removal to professionals, who will be able to minimise possible nail damage or even completely eliminate it.

In case you need to do it yourself, we offer a few tips: File your nails to a thin layer of product, about the same thickness as the nail polish layer. Then wrap them in foil with cotton discs soaked in acetone. The thin layer should come off the natural nail after 25-30 minutes.

If you decide to go for hard gel nail extensions, make sure you choose a master who is familiar with the product he uses and ask to see photos of his work. When it comes to the health of your nails, you shouldn't skimp. Remember that quality work requires a corresponding price and time. A low price and quick service can turn into problems in the future.

If hard gel doesn't fit the budget, there are alternatives. Soft gel extensions are more economical, safer to remove, and generally healthier as they are able to retain moisture. Т

Remember that investing in a gel manicure is worth it. Not only does it make your nails look beautiful, but it also keeps them healthy. At the end of the day, a perfect manicure without chipping and cracking is an investment in your confidence and well-being.

Read also: How to restore nails after gel varnish and nail extensions: 10 useful tips