Is It Safe to Gel Cure Press-On Nails? We Investigate
If you spend a lot of time on TikTok (*raises hand*), you may have noticed there's a lot of buzz about gel-curing press-on nails right now. It's garnered hype for (allegedly) being an easy way to extend the wear time of your press-on nails (translation: They won't pop off right after you apply them). But is gel curing press-on nails right for you? And are there any risks? Here's what you need to know, according to nail artist Aaliyah Smith and dermatologist Dana Stern, MD.
What Does It Mean to Gel Cure Your Press-On Nails?
If you get your nails done often, you're probably familiar with the concept of "curing" gel polish under a UV lamp when you're at the salon. This sets and dries the gel for a long-lasting manicure. And according to TikTok, the same act of curing with a UV lamp can make press-ons last longer. Here's how it works: Apply a layer of soft gel polish beneath your press-on nail right before you apply it to your natural nail. Once adhered to your nail, cure the manicure under a standard gel UV lamp to make it better-adhere to your nail, resulting in a longer-lasting press-on manicure.
Benefits of Gel Curing Your Press-Ons
Gel-curing press-on nails provides better adhesion, so they'll typically last much longer than press-on nails applied with glue or adhesive stickers. "Gel-cured press-on nails can last up to three weeks," Smith says. "However, I don't suggest [keeping them on] past two weeks without a new application." Read More…