How to dry gel polish without a lamp at home? We will talk about this in detail in our article. Not all girls and women currently can take advantage of the opportunity to apply gel polish in beauty salons. In this case, it becomes necessary to take care of your nails yourself.
Gel polish, another name is shellac, is the most famous and recognizable coating today. This varnish dries using a special ultraviolet lamp. However, not everyone has it, or it is possible that it is broken, what should you do in this case? Is it possible to dry gel polish without a lamp? Yes, this can be done. How to dry gel polish without a lamp? Let's figure it out now.
Gel polishes
But first, let's look at the types of varnishes. There are a large number of them. Popular types of gel polishes:
- Non-photosensitive - dries perfectly naturally, but with one condition. It requires a rapid polymerization composition, cyanoacrylate monomer - this is a liquid gel. If you want to cover your nails with shellac at home, then it is better to use a creamy monomer. Because it is easier to apply and lasts a long time. You must first make sure that it is not affected by light. This will give an understanding of the advisability of its use.
- Photosensitive - difficult to dry at home, but still possible. And if, after all, it was purchased, then how long does it take to dry the gel polish without a lamp? From 25 to 40 minutes, while the nails should be placed under direct ultraviolet rays.
- Water - it will dry perfectly if after application you dip your fingers in cold or ice water for 20 minutes.
- Brigitte Bottier - applies well, you can dry the gel polish without a lamp.
- Biogel is a medicinal varnish that accelerates nail growth. It also prevents delamination and thickens the nail plate. You can dry gel polish without a lamp at home. It has healing properties due to the fact that it contains natural oils and plant acids.
Spray drying
Anyone can purchase spray drying. The components in the product are specially selected and ensure quick drying of any nail polish. It is necessary to spray the product on the nails immediately after completing the manicure.
The main feature of spray drying is the beneficial substances included in the composition. The active ingredients of the product have a positive effect on the condition of the nail plate, providing the nails with additional nutrition and care.
Drying light insensitive coating
How to dry gel polish without a lamp? If you purchased an insensitive gel polish, you must definitely buy a monomer, activator or catalyst. When water coating is done, cold filtered water is necessary. You should prepare cuticle softening oil, nail clippers or thin scissors, and a glass nail file in advance. For this application, there are three types of catalysts, which are available in the form of an ointment, gel or spray. To dry this composition, you need to add a catalyst. Just one drop is enough. The most important thing is that the catalyst is applied equally on the plane of the nail plate, otherwise the strengthening of the gel polish will be uneven. The catalyst must be used 1-2 minutes after application.
Before applying gel polish, you first need to prepare the nail plate. To do this, you need to steam your fingers, push back and trim the cuticle. Shape the nails, file them, then buff the surface of the nails with a buff. Next, start applying shellac. It is easy to apply due to the wide brush. Carry out the procedure in the same way as when applying regular varnish. When applied once, look at the result. If there are no stains or cracks, then there is no need to apply another layer a second time.
If a non-photosensitive varnish is applied, in this case it is necessary to take and drop a drop of monomer or activator onto each nail. It is also allowed to rub creamy catalysts into the nails.
Application and drying technique without UF lamp
The algorithm of actions is as follows.
Perform preparatory work with the nail plate. Make a finger bath, remove excess cuticle, give the desired shape to the nail and polish its surface.
Apply the selected coating to the prepared nail. When working with gel polish, you should not make a lot of strokes on the nail plate. Manufacturers made sure that the brush was as comfortable as possible, and two movements were enough to cover the entire surface.
Check the uniformity of coating application. Everything should be smooth, without streaks, cracks or streaks. If the gloss is insufficient, it is better to apply another layer.
Apply coating catalyst over entire surface. Choose a release form that is convenient for you, and if you purchased the product in the form of a spray, then make sure that when spraying it gets on the entire nail plate.
When applying a coating that does not require a catalyst to dry, take a bowl of water and soak your nails in it for 10 minutes.
At this point the procedure can be considered complete. Now you know that drying gel polish without purchasing a special lamp is absolutely possible. To achieve the best result, it is recommended not to save on the cost of coating, and to choose only proven brands. Also remember - there is a high probability that you will not be able to achieve the desired results the first time, but with more experience everything will work out.
Water and ice
How else can you dry gel polish without a lamp? After applying it, you need to dip your fingers in ice water for a quarter of an hour. This is enough for the gel polish to completely adhere. This coating method is considered to be as harmless as possible due to its unique composition. However, you can use ice. For a quick drying effect, add ice cubes to the water, and the gel polish will dry in 10 minutes.
Tip 2: How to dry the gel
Traditional nail extension techniques are gradually fading into the background. gel is becoming increasingly popular . This unique material does not cause any harm to nails. And most importantly, you can now dry the gel much faster than before.
Blue lamp
A medical blue lamp, which is sometimes used during warming, can be used to dry light-sensitive gel polish. The only thing is that this will take much more time than when drying using a special method. When drying the applied first coating, you need to think about its thickness. Sometimes it may seem that the varnish is shining through. In this case, you should apply it again. In this case, it must be dried using the same method as the coating of the first gel polish. Then you should let the coating dry for 20-30 minutes. Next, lubricate the cuticle with a specific oil and rub it a little near the nail fold. Rubbing will help the natural ingredients absorb into the skin, while softening it.
Preparation and necessary tools
As in the case of French manicure, starter kits are provided for designing nails with gel-based polish. If we consider the minimum ones, then its package includes: a base, a top coat and a lamp. In our case, all that is needed for a manicure is:
- gel polish not sensitive to ultraviolet radiation;
- catalyst (liquid or creamy);
- water, in case of using a coating that does not require a catalyst.
Naturally, without preliminary nail preparation, the result will not be impressive. Therefore, in order to put the nail plate in order, you need to make sure that you have tweezers, scissors, a file, and a buff.
Recommendations
Now you know how to dry gel polish without a lamp. Remember that drying time depends on the specific varnish. Before applying the coating, carefully read the instructions and familiarize yourself with the recommendations. After all, when a lamp is used, the gel polish dries faster, and without this device it takes longer than usual.
When using water-based gel polishes, use purified drinking water. However, you must add ice cubes for a quick reaction. It takes about two minutes to dry the gel polish using monomer. To simplify the process, it is allowed to apply top varnish on top, but this action will cause cracks and dullness to appear. It is worth purchasing gel polishes in specialized stores and those companies that have good recommendations; do not buy them on the market or in underground passages.
You should not use gel polishes indefinitely; you must give your nails a rest period. Do this at least once every 2 months. At this time, do not apply any coating at all, but use biogel or another restorative method.
It is recommended to wear gloves while doing housework - this is important when washing floors or dishes so that the gel polish does not crack.
Biogel dries without any activators, monomers, ice water and ultraviolet lamps. Therefore, it is easy to use at home. Those who wish to have a matte finish after drying must purchase an additional matte, non-photosensitive top varnish. It is applied after some time, when the base has dried, then you need to dry it directly.
Instructions for extensions using tips
The process of nail extension using tips is divided into the following stages:
- first you need to treat your hands and nail plate with an antibacterial agent and do a classic trimmed manicure;
- prepare the nail plate for gluing tips by cutting off the top layer with a file, creating roughness;
- remove excess nail dust by brushing with a wide brush;
- select the tips according to the width of the nail, so that it covers the nail from edge to edge;
- apply special glue to the base of the tip that will be attached to the nail;
- Next, you need to carefully glue the tips; if the adhesive mass goes beyond the edges, it must be removed with a lint-free cloth;
- bring the tips to the desired appearance, namely shape and length, cutting off or cutting off excess tips with special tip pliers;
- use an abrasive file to file down the edge of the transition until it is invisible;
- remove excess dust using a wide brush and apply primer;
- apply modeling gel, drying each layer;
- apply the main gel in two or three layers, drying each for 2 minutes using a lamp;
- apply a standard coating and dry for 2 minutes under a lamp;
- if you plan to create a design, then this step is always performed after the finishing coat;
- treat the base of the nail with cuticle care oil.
How to do a manicure without a lamp?
Drying gel nail polish without a lamp is very easy. It is necessary to wash your hands and nails thoroughly and first apply a base strengthening coating, which will dry in 30 seconds. Then the nails need to be covered with a thin layer of gel polish. This is done in a couple of seconds, since the brush of these gel polishes is wide, so the coating is applied evenly. Dries in just three minutes, for durability it is allowed to apply one more time. The top layer – fixative (protective coating) dries in 3 minutes. An excellent manicure is ready, and it will last about 10 days.
The applied coating is erased with nail polish remover. There is no need to have special foil, additional mixtures and solutions to properly remove gel polish from nails.
The best manufacturers
Which gel polish without a lamp to choose for your manicure? How to simplify the creation of nail designs so that the process does not take much time? For you, we have collected the most popular brands from which you can choose the best.
Pupa "lasting color gel"
The product has good properties, and also has a beautiful bottle and a convenient cap. Creates an attractive glossy nail surface in just a few touches. The varnish lasts up to 1 week without chipping or cracking.
El Corazon
A popular brand that has won the hearts of many nail artists and home users. The product contains many herbal and natural ingredients that nourish the nails with beneficial elements. Of the minuses, it should be noted that the varnish contains dangerous formaldehyde. The product lasts about 1-2 weeks.
Limoni
The inexpensive price of the bottle will appeal to many girls. The Limoni brand offers a huge palette of shades for every taste, which can be chosen to suit absolutely any look. The varnish lasts for 10-14 days, but maybe longer.
Belor design “podium gel effect”
The Belarusian manufacturer creates excellent decorative cosmetics. Their gel polish without a lamp became a revolutionary product that many female representatives liked. The product creates a glossy gel effect on your nails in a matter of minutes. Provides long-lasting coverage for up to 2 weeks.
Brigitte bottier
The famous brand offers a huge palette of colors. The product fits perfectly on the nails and forms a glossy surface on the nails. A professional round-shaped brush will create an incredible radiant coating in 1-2 strokes. It lasts for 14 days.
CND Vinylux
It is extremely popular among girls. An excellent nail polish that is widely used in home and professional use. Just before applying the product, you need to thoroughly degrease the nail plate, and only then apply colored gel polish.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Color
Color coating that remains durable for 2 weeks. It must be applied in 2 layers, and then just wait 5-10 minutes until it dries completely. In addition to basic shades, the manufacturer often produces limited collections, which are quite difficult to find on sale.
OPI Infinite Shine Gel Effects Lacquer System
The three-stage system consists of a base, colored gel polish and top coat. Additional products adhere materials well to nails and combat the appearance of stains on nails. For a durable coating that lasts 7-10 days, it is enough to apply 2 layers of gel polish. The palette includes about 30 colors.
Pupa Lasting Color Gel
This glass effect gel polish does not require a base or top coat. But colored gel polish is applied in 1-2 layers. Thanks to it, nails become voluminous and acquire an original mirror shine. The manufacturer offers more than 100 different shades.
Isadora Gel Nail Lacquer
This gel polish without a lamp is absolutely safe for health, as it does not contain harmful components. The coating must be applied in 2 layers, and it dries within 3-5 minutes. You can remove the product using nail polish remover that does not contain acetone. There are 13 shades available in the palette.
NailLOOK like GEL
The varnish contains 80% useful components, it has about. To achieve a wet gloss effect, it is enough to apply only 2 layers, which will then be covered with a gel top. The varnish lasts up to 2 weeks, and the palette includes 21 shades.
Rimmel London Super Gel
You don't need to use a base coat to use this gel polish without a lamp. All you need is 2 layers and a sealer to make your nails shine in a special way. The product lasts 12-14 days, but sometimes it can please a girl much longer. The varnish does not wear off and protects the plates from mechanical damage.
Lumene gel effect nail polish
The varnish contains no harmful ingredients. The varnish is very ultra-resistant and gives the nails a special gel effect. The product lasts on the nails for about a week. When creating a manicure, you do not need to apply a base or top coat. The palette includes about 70 shades.
Avon "Gel effect"
A budget varnish with a gel coating effect does not require the application of a base and top coat. The product contains useful components that prevent peeling and brittleness of nails. The palette contains 16 shades. The product lasts for 7-10 days.
Reviews
How to dry gel polish without a lamp? We've already found out. What do ladies think about these methods? Girls who have tried the methods described in our article say that they really work. But still, many ladies advise using a lamp to dry gel polish. But as a last resort, you can choose one of the described methods for yourself. The easiest and most economical way, as the ladies say, is to use cold water and ice.
Extension methods
How to extend nails with gel polish, and which method is most suitable, is an important question before starting the extension procedure.
There are 2 known methods of nail extension:
- Extension using tips . They are made of thick plastic and are attached to the very edge of the nail using a special non-toxic glue. After attachment, the desired shape is cut out using files and tongs.
- Extension using forms. They consist of thick paper, covered with plastic film on top. The device is secured with an adhesive layer, which allows the form to be held at the base of the nail. There are disposable and reusable forms. But for sterility reasons, it is best to use disposable products.
To choose the right method, you need to focus on the length of your own natural nail.
If the nail does not have a free edge, that is, they are cut very short, then it will be inappropriate to use forms, since there will simply be nowhere to attach them. You need to have at least 2 millimeters of regrown nail. If you want to get a manicure done in a short period of time, then it is better to choose extensions using tips. In this case, the procedure will end almost twice as fast.
