Question for those who do their UV Gels at home...

[Sylvvie]

I have just bought some CND Shellac and wanted to know how long they generally last? And also any recommendations for a decent base? I've been looking at Gelish Top and Base but wondered if they were any good (as it seems to be the leading brand).

I have some of the cheap "Beetles" polishes from Amazon which are OK, if very watery, but no matter how good my nail prep is they tend to peel after about a week. I did get 2 weeks out of a set once but it's not consistent.

Any recommendations for other decent polishes are welcome too! Anything that lasts a week + and doesn't peel :D

Hi, I feel I may be qualified to answer this question

My clients generally go around 3 weeks, some go longer although that's not necessarily recommended.

You should use a complete system, so whichever colours you're using you should use the top and base to match. No two gel brands are the same and are not made to mix and match. That could explain peeling issues. It's also best to use the matching lamp too as the incorrect lamp can lead to curing issues which in turn can lead to allergies. Are you sure it's genuine Shellac? As I was under the impression you had to be qualified to purchase, although I may be wrong.

But really prep is the most important thing when getting them to last. Using a primer/bonder if you're not already can also help.

Just popping in to agree with all of the above!!

Although if your nails grow very quickly, then 2 weeks might be more expected. Or if you do a lot of housework/washing up/gardening/etc without gloves then that might affect longevity too.

I'm certain they are genuine as they are bought on my behalf by someone qualified, thankfully!

Thanks for the advice RE the complete system. I did wonder if they were interchangeable. I am using Beetles top and base coats too so am putting it down to poor product, hence why I want to improve what I use so I'm not wasting money.

As for the lamp, I was under the impression that one UV lamp does the same job as another UV lamp and they don't differ (unless it's fake of course), but LED lamps do differ wildly and need to fit with the brand you use, although I am happy for advice on that too!

Initially when I bought the cheap kit it was kind of a test run (as in, could I do Gels on my own, would I do it consistently and not switch back to regular polish, is it worth it money saving wise) and the answer is yes, so I want to invest in genuine and decent products that won't destroy my nails (which includes a new lamp if needed).

Thank you for the advice so far, I do appreciate it!

Mine always peeled when I did them at home, so I went back to getting them done professionally,

@Sylvvie Ah you may be right about the UV lamp, I was assuming Led. However I haven't actually used a UV for so long, so I'll admit I don't keep up to date on the advice for those. However the reason I stopped using a UV (apart from the length of time it takes to cure) is because you need to regularly replace the bulbs to ensure the correct cure, so if you've had yours for a while then you may need to do that as that could also be a reason for peeling if the product is under cured.

Good to hear the products are genuine, there's some dodgy stuff out there! Best to be as safe as possible otherwise you can end up with some nasty reactions.

Decent products won't damage your nails but incorrect prep and removal can.

Although I'm a professional I actually use and can recommend Bluesky, which is available to everyone (as long as it's purchased from an approved distributor and/or directly) they have their own lamp too. I had a client come to me for her Xmas nails then we went into lockdown. She came back in April with the Gel still on the tips!! It looked like a very weird French Manicure As I said before, not generally recommended under normal circumstances but I was impressed!

What is the difference between a primer and a basecoat?
Or is it the same?

I forget is it UV lamp that's not so safe or LED ? Or am I completely barking up the wrong tree (likely as have old lady sieve brain )

@Rollerbird
Primer is not the same as base coat. It goes on first and prepares the nail to accept the gel better. Not always necessary but can help with problem lifters.

@BeaLola both are safe