Introduction
Nail polish has been a staple in the beauty industry for many years, and it’s no surprise that it has evolved into different types, including gel nail polish. Gel nail polish has become increasingly popular, thanks to its long-lasting and chip-resistant formula. However, with many people still using regular nail polish, the question arises, can you put gel over regular nail polish?
Understanding Regular Nail Polish
Before delving into whether you can put gel over regular nail polish, it’s crucial to understand what regular nail polish is. Regular nail polish is a type of nail polish that dries when exposed to air. It usually takes around 10-15 minutes to dry, and it can chip off easily.
What is Gel Nail Polish?
Gel nail polish, on the other hand, is a type of nail polish that requires UV or LED light to dry. It usually takes around 30-60 seconds to cure under a UV/LED lamp, and it can last for up to two weeks without chipping off.
Can You Put Gel Over Regular Nail Polish?
The answer is yes; you can put gel over regular nail polish. However, it’s crucial to note that it’s not recommended as it can affect the longevity of the gel polish. Gel polish is designed to adhere to the natural nail bed, and applying it over regular nail polish can cause it to peel off quickly.
How to Apply Gel Over Regular Nail Polish
If you still want to apply gel over regular nail polish, there are steps you can follow to ensure that it adheres to the nails correctly. First, apply a base coat and let it dry. Then, apply a layer of regular nail polish and let it dry. Apply another layer of regular nail polish and let it dry again. Finally, apply the gel polish and cure it under a UV/LED lamp.
Pros and Cons of Putting Gel Over Regular Nail Polish
Pros: – You can create unique nail designs by combining regular nail polish and gel polish. – It can save time as you don’t have to remove the regular nail polish before applying the gel polish. Cons: – The gel polish may not adhere correctly to the nails, causing it to peel off. – It can affect the longevity of the gel polish, making it chip off quickly.
Alternative to Putting Gel Over Regular Nail Polish
If you want to achieve a long-lasting and chip-resistant nail polish, the best alternative is to apply gel nail polish directly to the natural nail bed. It may take longer, but it’s worth it as it can last for up to two weeks without chipping off.
Tips for Applying Gel Nail Polish
– Make sure to prep the nails correctly by cleaning and shaping them. – Apply a base coat to protect the natural nails. – Apply thin layers of gel polish to avoid it from peeling off quickly. – Cure the gel polish under a UV/LED lamp for the recommended time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can put gel over regular nail polish, but it’s not recommended as it can affect the longevity of the gel polish. The best alternative is to apply gel nail polish directly to the natural nail bed. Remember to follow the tips for applying gel nail polish to achieve a long-lasting and chip-resistant nail polish.