Acid-free primer - reviews of which is best for gel polish

In their articles, reviews and master classes, nail art experts mention primers as an important component of a professional manicure, since this liquid works simultaneously in three directions: it promotes the evaporation of excess moisture and removes the natural fatty film from the surface of the nails; disinfects and deprives microorganisms of conditions for their development; lifts keratin scales and forms an additional sticky layer.

Tips for choosing a primer

To choose the best primer for your purposes, pay attention to the following parameters.

Primer type.

Depending on the composition, there are 2 types of primers. The acid type contains rather aggressive methacrylic acid and is mainly used to treat problem nails. It is more suitable for oily, springboard-growing and brittle nail plates. If used incorrectly, it can cause burns or damage the nail structure. Therefore, it is better not to use acid varnish primers for beginners. Acid-free primer is used for weak, sensitive, thin and dry nails. The main active component in its composition, ethyl acetate, has a much gentler effect on the plates.

Drying.

There are primers on sale that dry on their own, and there are products that require the use of a UV lamp. Of course, the first option is much more convenient. Without a lamp, the procedure will take an order of magnitude less time.

Texture.

In general, this is not the most important parameter. Most primers have a liquid texture, making them economical to use. However, if you have uneven nail plates, then it is better to choose a product with a more viscous composition.

Price segment.

Primers from the budget and mid-range segments are quite suitable for home use. This is especially true for users with healthy nail plates. For professionals or in case of problem nails, it makes sense to overpay and purchase a more expensive product.

How to choose a nail primer

“The master needs to have both an acid primer and an acid-free one in his arsenal, because clients’ nail plates are different,” says Anna Ruben . — Buy ​​both types, the prices of these products are very affordable. The master must be able to understand nail types and primers: this is taught in professional courses. If you have doubts about which primer to choose, consult a consultant by going to a professional cosmetics store.

So, there are several types of primers.

Acid-free primers

The name speaks for itself - these primers do not contain methacrylic acid. Their formula is safe and suitable for both normal and weak nails. The product is based on ethyl acetate, a solvent that does not cause allergies and does not harm the nails. Another advantage of acid-free primers: they are convenient to use for extensions and dry quickly.

Acidic primers

The product is based on methacrylic acid, 80% of the total composition. Thanks to this acid, the primer has a strong effect on the plate, so it should only be used on strong and durable nails. Under no circumstances should you apply the product to weak and worn nails! This type of primer also contains ethyl acetate - it is responsible for degreasing and cleaning the nail plate, which is necessary before applying the coating.

Expert advice

What are the different nail shapes for manicure?

Bonders and primer enhancers (pre-primers)

As an alternative to primer, craftsmen use bonder. These are different tools, although their functions are largely similar.

A bonder, like a primer, helps the nail adhere to the coating (gel polish or acrylic) and performs protective functions. Bonder can also be called “invisible protection” - it creates a film on the nail plate that will protect the nail from exposure to ultraviolet rays during drying.

But the bonder is used as a bonding agent, while the primer, first of all, cleans and degreases. Bonder looks like a gel and needs to be dried in a lamp. The primer has an easily evaporating composition that dries on its own. Bonder and primer can be used together.

Bonder is also called prep primer or primer enhancer. It is applied before using an acid or acid-free primer.

The most reliable primer companies

Every major manufacturer of gel polishes has primers on sale. However, not all of them have quality that matches the price. Based on reviews, we chose the most worthy companies:

Kodi.

The American manufacturer has long established itself in the Russian market. Kodi's gel polishes and primers are also of high quality. The range includes acidic and acid-free products. In terms of price-quality ratio, this is one of the best options for craftsmen and home use.

TNL.

Primers from this Korean brand have received high ratings from users. Manicurists especially praise the acid-free product. It dries well, moisturizes nails, and protects the gel coating from chips and cracks.

Dance Legend.

The Russian brand did not disappoint its fans with the quality of its primers. The products from this manufacturer have a gentle composition, good protective properties and economical consumption.

When should you apply acid-free primer to your nails?

Professional workers in the nail industry follow the mandatory rules for using primers, which, regardless of the composition, are applied according to the following scheme:

1. Initially, you need to do a manicure: get rid of the varnish coating, trim the cuticles, and give the nails the correct shape.
2. Only after this can you begin to degrease the surface.
3. Using gentle, slow movements, distribute the product from the base to the center of the nail, only then treat the edges and sides.
4. Use a brush to pick up a small amount of the substance to make the layer loose.
5. Liquid analogues dry on their own; denser gel-like formulations require a UV lamp.
6. Only after the primer has dried do you begin the base coat.

Important! You need to apply the primer carefully, having first read the instructions. The product should not get on the cuticle or skin, as this can cause a burn.

Some people doubt the need to use primers, since they are not included in the basic set of products for working in the nail industry. But their use may not be necessary only if the client has ideal, strong nails with a smooth surface. In another case, if the primer suddenly runs out, it can be replaced with prep or bonder, which also do not spoil the structure. But in this case, you should forget about the durability of the coating.

To learn about the features of an acid-free primer and how to use it correctly, watch the video:

The best primers for gel polish from the budget segment

In this category we included primers with the lowest price and decent quality. The average cost of all models does not exceed 300 rubles. Last but not least, the low price is due to the fact that most models are made in Russia. According to the main parameters, budget primers are not much different from more expensive ones. But still, this category is more suitable for home use. The exception is a few models from the professional line. They can be used for clients in salons.

What is an acid-free primer?

The word “primer” has 2 interpretations: from Latin it is translated as “first”, and from English it means “primer”. Primer is a liquid that provides strong bonding of the nail plate to the extension material, as well as layers of gel polish.

There are 2 types of primers: acidic and acid-free. To know which option to choose, you need to understand what their differences are and in what situations to use each product.

Unlike acid-free primers, acid primers contain a moderately toxic substance – methacrylic acid. There is no need to worry about safety, since it is harmful only in large quantities. The bottle contains a concentrate supplemented with other components. The basis of the acid-free primer is ethyl acetate, which replaces acrylic acid. This is also a solvent, but not so aggressive, without causing allergic reactions.

Attention! The acid version is recommended for working with oily nail plates; it is more suitable for application under acrylic. Acid-free is most often used for gel polish, shellac; This option is harmless even for thin, weakened nails.

How to use an acid-free tack primer

After application to the nail surface, many products leave a sticky layer, due to which improved adhesion is formed. They hold the extension product securely and firmly.

But, experienced professionals note that, in comparison with analogue preparations, these products take a little longer to dry. Therefore, they must be applied in a thin layer to ensure faster drying.

There is no need to try to speed up drying (by blowing on your nails), otherwise air bubbles may form. To do this, you need to take a small amount of product onto the brush. If after a minute after drying the surface is still wet, blot it with a dry cloth.

There is no need to dry acid-free primers under a special lamp, but many manufacturers systematically introduce new products, so it is better to carefully study the instructions and test for an allergic reaction before using the substance. It is accepted that some groups of acid-free primers require drying under a lamp.

Primer manufacturers

Let's consider the advantages of primers from the most popular manufacturers in our country:

1. The Ezflow brand offers its customers a wide selection of nail extension materials, including acid-free and acid-free primers. The products of this brand are manufactured on the basis of modern scientific developments and are distinguished by high quality and safety. The company produces both primers designed exclusively for one type of extension (acrylic or gel), as well as universal ones that can be used for both the first and the second material.
2. Kodi brand products are in demand not only for their decent quality, but also for their low cost compared to other brands.
3. National nail extension materials are in demand not only in Russia, but also in European countries. This brand is one of the few that produces UV primers, that is, those that need to be cured in a lamp.

How to apply primer correctly?

In order for a manicure primer to give the desired results, fully strengthen your nails and provide them with protection, you need to familiarize yourself with the features of its use. Acid and non-acid products have their own application rules, which is why you need to familiarize yourself with them in more detail at the beginning of the manipulation.

Acid primer

The differences between acidic and acid-free primers have already been clarified; they exist not only in the nature of the effect and composition, but also in the methods of application to the surface of the nail plate.

We must remember! The composition contains toxic acid, but it does not negatively affect the nail if you follow all the rules of use.

First you need to prepare your nails; a manicure with all procedures is done first, because after applying the product, any manipulation with a nail file or tweezers is prohibited.

You need to put a little product on the brush and touch it to the middle of the nail so that the primer spreads evenly to all corners. You should not take an excessive amount of liquid, which will flow outside the cuticle and only create inconvenience in use. If you take a small amount of the product, it will take the desired shape and allow you to dry it immediately.

The primer dries well under the influence of ambient heat and air, so 30-40 seconds is enough, and you can move on to the next step - applying the base coat, which is dried in a lamp.

Acid-free primer

The technology for using an acid-free primer is practically the same; first you need to prepare your nails for applying the product. Everyone considers an acid-free primer to be gentle, which is why many problems arise with it during use. Despite the fact that there is no acid in the composition, if there is an excessive amount it can harm the nail plate and dry it out. That is why you need to take the product onto the edge of the brush, and try to cover all 5 fingers of your hand with this minimum amount.

The primer does not leave any traces behind, which is why the nails take their original appearance in a few seconds and are considered ready for applying the base coat.

Subtleties when working with acidic and acid-free primers

Each nail primer has its own subtleties in operation, which you need to familiarize yourself with first.

Both products are toxic substances that are present in the composition in greater or lesser quantities. That is why you need to know about the following important points when working with them:

• The master must wear gloves when working;
• You should not inhale the smell of the primer; it is better to use a special mask;
• Products are applied in a minimal amount and carefully distributed over the entire nail area;
• There is no need to dry them; they dry as quickly as possible even without a lamp.

These subtleties will allow you to carry out the work quickly, efficiently and effectively.

Important! If there are individual allergic reactions to the primer, its use should be replaced with other folk remedies.

The best acid primers

Top acid primers:

1. The most popular and popular brand is Vogue Nails , which, despite its composition, does not have a strong aroma . The primer is applied using the standard method onto a clean, grease-free plate. The product effectively holds the gel polish on the surface of the nails for a long time; corrections can be avoided for more than 30-40 days. But, at the same time, it is worth knowing that Vogue Nails is quite aggressive; after prolonged use, minor damage to the nail plate may occur.
2. The affordable NeoNail product is highly effective and strong . Primer "NeoNail" can be purchased for only 250-300 rubles; it prevents peeling and does not injure the nail.
3. Inexpensive primer "LianaiL" You can buy it for independent use for only 300 rubles. Numerous reviews confirm high efficiency, durability, and the material does not chip or crack when used.

4. A highly effective primer mixture for nails will cost customers only 400 rubles. The primer effectively removes excess moisture, degreases and disinfects the nail. One of the most ideal options.
5. Primer "PNB" is an inexpensive but effective product with high performance. The cost is approximately 250-300 rubles. The downsides are the inconvenient bottle and brush, as well as a very strong smell.

Top 10 Best Acid-Free Nail Primers Based on Reviews

The modern nail industry offers a huge number of different products for beautiful, high-quality nail design. The range is growing every day, complemented by new developments. Therefore, it is not surprising that among such abundance, masters are lost, experiencing difficulties in choosing drugs.

To make this choice easier and answer the question of which primer is better, the 10 best products according to reviews from nail technicians have been selected from the acid-free varieties for gel polish.

1. KodiUltrabond 15 ml. A high-quality American-made “primer” does not contain methacrylic acid. Characterized by a delicate effect, including on the cuticle; No risk of burns. It is distinguished by its versatility, as it is used in acrylic and gel extension systems.
2. Bluesky. Despite its Chinese production, it has established itself as a high-quality product at an affordable price. It has strong bonding properties, is easy to apply, and thoroughly degreases the plate.
3. TNL. A favorite among nail artists. They note high quality, reliable protection of the coating from cracks or chips during a long service life.
4. IBD. Enhanced adhesion without acids. Densely fills cracks, chips, levels the plate. The composition is gel-like and requires drying in a special lamp. Has a relatively high cost.
5. VogueNails. Reliably bonds the surface of the nail with gel polish; characterized by increased wear time. The disadvantages are high acid content, aggressiveness, and a strong odor.
6. Lechat. Creates a sticky layer that dries quickly. The watery composition is colorless and odorless, bonds the nail to the coating well, and has a long service life.
7. LeVoleUltraBond. The American brand produces several types of primers, bonders, and dihydrates. Ultra-adhesion allows the product to be used with acrylic and helium materials. Cleans thoroughly and dries without disturbing the pH balance.
8. Runail. Economical product with liquid texture. Dries quickly and is easy to apply. No acids. Suitable for all helium formulations.
9. Masura produces tacky, acid-free primers with high adhesive properties. Buyers note high quality, hypoallergenic, ease of use.
10. Primer for gel polish acid-free Olystyle – an oily, odorless product increases the wearing life of the gel coating. When used, the substance should not get on the cuticle. Dries without a lamp within 15-20 seconds. Prevents varnish from peeling.

Advice! Primers can be ordered on the manufacturer’s website or in an online store. It is better to purchase these products in specialized stores. Before purchasing, you should study the product segment not only in your own, but also in other countries, since purchasing from the official website of another country is more profitable.

Today, manufacturers offer degreasers in various price categories. The cost depends on the brand, composition, quality characteristics. So, the price can vary from 150 rubles. up to 2000 rub. Non-acidic products cost an order of magnitude lower.

Attention! Depending on the region, as well as on different online shopping sites, the price may vary. Professional fairs are often held, where the price of nail products can be reduced.

So, whether to use a primer or not is the choice of every master. But to increase your professionalism and improve the quality of your work, you should use such a useful tool. Before purchasing, it is important to study all the nuances, and also clearly understand when working with what material the composition will be used. This will allow you to preserve and extend the life of the manicure without harming the client.

Acid, acid-free or prep - which one to choose, pros and cons

How to choose the best primer for gel polish? What should you pay attention to first?

• Determine the condition of the nails (oily, dry, weakened)
• What will you use to cover it with (varnish, gel polish, gel, acrylic)
• Find out the presence of allergic reactions
• How often will you change the coating?
• Read the instructions for the primer (information on the label)

The price range is very diverse, but it’s up to you to decide why overpay for the brand.

The consumption of the product is minimal, so decide on the volume that suits you, pay attention to the expiration date and look at the price.

Prep (bond)

- the safest. Used as a degreaser before applying polish, gel polish or before applying acid or acid-free primer. Creates a protective layer between the nail and the primer.

Pros:

• does not have aggressive chemical dyes and fragrances,
• does not penetrate deep into the nail plate, dries only the top layer,
• suitable for weakened, thin and brittle nails,
• hypoallergenic.

Minuses:

• does not guarantee strong adhesion to the material,

Acid-free primer

developed on the basis of a hypoallergenic solvent safe for sensitive hands. It is gentle on nails. Using an acid-free primer, you can create designs using foil, attach sliders and rubs, or do stamping.

Pros:

• safe for nails and skin (suitable for dry skin prone to rashes),
• degreases well
• dries quickly,
• suitable for working with gel, gel polish and gel modeling,
• dries leaves no traces,
• does not change the color of the base coat.

Minuses:

• does not disinfect
• does not remove excess moisture.

Acid primer

the strongest and contains acid. It severely dehydrates the nail several layers deep.

Acid primer is used to work with gel or acrylic, so read the label carefully before purchasing.

Attention: if the product does not dry, the acrylic may turn yellow, become brittle and brittle, and even peel off.

The price range is very diverse, but it’s up to you to decide whether it’s worth overpaying for the brand. Primer consumption is minimal, so decide on the volume that suits you, pay attention to the expiration date and look at the price.

Pros:

• strong adhesion of the material to the nail,
• complete disinfection,
• suitable for oily nail plates,
• recommended for excessive sweating,
• indispensable in case of complex nail shapes (springboard-shaped, twisted),
• used before acrylic or gel extensions,
• leaves a white residue after drying.

Minuses:

• strong acidic odor (ventilate the room and use gloves, masks and goggles),
• not recommended for use on weakened nails,
• possible burns, allergic reactions and dermatitis (apply very carefully),
• thins the nail plate.

What is a primer for shellac used for?

A nail primer (what it is and why you need it is described above) makes shellac easy to apply, increases its durability and creates a beautiful appearance for your nails.

The use of a special fluid ensures the following:

• degreasing and disinfection of natural nails;
• easy drying;
• protection of the structure of the natural plate;
• increased adhesion.

For shellac, acid-free primers or bonds are most often used.

Best pre-primers

It is often recommended to use a prep primer before using a classic primer. The advantage of the drug is the fact that there is no negative effect on the structure of the nail plate. Not many people know what a nail primer of the “Bond” variety is. This product is recommended to be used only before the extension material is applied.

The most popular pre-primers include the following types:

1. Hong Kong remedy is a universal primer that is used as a primer and can be used as a base coat. The cost of the product is quite affordable - 500 rubles.
2. Cheap nail product "inGarden" , which will cost customers only 230 rubles, has fairly high adhesive properties and effectively degreases the surface. The advantage of the product is its safety for the nail plate and the skin around it.
3. High-quality YOKO primer has good adhesion properties and demonstrates high-quality adhesion. The price of the product is about 300 rubles.

4. EzFlow degreasing liquid does not contain dyes or flavors , therefore it does not cause irritation or an allergic reaction. The primer dries almost instantly, but the cost of the product is quite high - 1000 rubles.
5. The “CND” primer is rightfully considered one of the highest quality , but has a high cost - 1150 rubles. It is great for use on weak, thin nails and will provide durable and high-quality extensions. Thanks to the unique formula of the composition, the primer is hypoallergenic and does not cause burning or burning.

Acid and acid-free primer: what is the difference

Photo from the site: IRecommend.ru

People who have never previously encountered such a procedure as nail extension using acrylic powder, on tips or forms, using gel or even a regular shellac coating, can hardly imagine what a nail primer is and what varieties of it are available today buy on the market. Let's figure out the difference between an acidic and acid-free primer in order to clarify the problem as much as possible.

Interesting

If you start to understand from the very beginning, then translated from Latin, the word primer itself means “first”. Based on this, you can understand that this is a special chemical compound that is applied to the nails before applying the base coat to ensure maximum adhesion of the surfaces. Primers for extensions or gel coating may or may not contain acids.