Gel Nails
What the exam tests
Gel nails tests product chemistry, thin application, curing, inhibition layer, and removal. Gel is a light-cured oligomer that stays workable until exposed to the correct UV or LED wavelength. It has little odor and does not set by evaporation.
Core rules
- Use the manufacturer's base, color, and top coats with the matched lamp; mixing systems can cause undercuring.
- Apply thin, even coats. Thick coats cure unevenly and lift.
- Keep gel off skin and cuticle; uncured gel on skin raises allergy risk.
- Cure for the full time specified for the lamp and product.
- Remove the inhibition layer per product instructions, usually with cleanser.
- Remove by filing the top coat, wrapping with acetone, and gently lifting; never scrape or pry.
Worked example
Gel peels from the edges after three days. Reasoning: likely causes are cuticle contact, insufficient curing, or too-thick coats. Remove the gel, dehydrate the plate, apply a thinner base, keep a margin at the cuticle, and cure the full cycle. Check that the lamp bulbs are clean and working.
Traps
Using a thick coat to hide ridges; curing too briefly; mixing brands; and picking at gel during removal. Also avoid using a metal tool to scrape the plate, which causes white spots and sensitivity.