Why Would You Choose Gel-X Over Acrylics?
While both gel extensions and acrylics can be used to create a similar effect, there are a few key differences. The most important is the application process. With an acrylic application, the nail artist has to mix a liquid called a monomer and a powder polymer to actually mold the top layer of the nail. There's a strong chemical odor and lot of dust that comes with the process, plus some imperfections that come with manually molding the nail. "Gel-X has no strong monomer smell and can be applied quickly and with very little mess," said Tokyo, and the Gel-X overlays are already shaped.
Acrylic nails are also much thicker and harder than gel extensions, which makes them less comfortable to wear. Plus, the removal process is much more labor-intensive with acrylics, and can be damaging to the natural nail since they need to be buffed off, which weakens the nail underneath.
How Are Gel Nail Extensions Applied?
First, the nail technician will do the prep-work of any manicure — filing, cleaning, and buffing. Tokyo then matches the Gel-X forms to each nail, and pre-files them so that they're perfectly fitted to your nail shape. Your natural nail will then get a layer of pH bonder (to dry the nail) and a layer of nonacidic primer to make your nails sticky. Then the natural nail gets a layer of clear gel polish, which cures under the LED lamp for 30 seconds.
Next up is the application of the actual Gel-X nail form. Tokyo scrubs the underside of the Gel-X tip for better adhesion, then adds a drop of the gel and presses the tip onto the nail at a 45-degree angle. She'll then flash-cure each nail under the lamp for 15 seconds. Once the whole hand is complete, you'll fully cure under the LED for 30 seconds. Now it's time for the fun part — polish.
How Long Do Gel-X Extensions Last?
According to Tokyo, the lifetime of your extensions depends on how well they were prepped and applied. You can expect them to last anywhere from two to four weeks. This will also be dependent on how you use your hands, and how fast your nails grow.
Are Gel Nail Extensions Safe?
Tokyo said that, yes, the Gel-X system is safe as long as the products are properly applied and removed. Of course, in the same way as regular gel manicures, if you decide to peel off your manicure or improperly remove them, you'll likely see your natural nails weaken over time. However, overall, gel extensions are considered much safer than acrylic nails since they don't include harsh chemicals like methyl methacrylate and toluene, or the cloud of dust created in the acrylic process.
