Soft gel nails are a type of nail extension made from the same type of gel that gel polish is made of. They are pre-shaped nail tips that are made completely out of gel and which cover the entire nail, unlike acrylics which require a monomer liquid and polymer powder to create the finished sculpted nail. Soft gel nails are healthier for your nails because they don’t involve the powder or harsh chemicals associated with acrylics. They are also as strong and long-lasting as regular acrylics.
Soft gel nails are flexible and wont snap in half when you jam your hand into a wall, counter, or car. They are also malleable and have the length of a press-on or glue-on nail. The extension is made out of gel polish which is applied directly on top of your full natural nail and can be cut and shaped to your preference. Soft gel full coverage tips tend to require a dehydrator, bonder, and base gel before adhering to the natural nail.
Soft gel nails are a healthy alternative to acrylics for both the person getting them and the manicurist. Unlike acrylic or hard-gel extensions, Gel-X tips don’t just sit at the tip of the nails. Instead, they cover the entire nail bed from cuticle to free edge. Soft gel nails are also soak-off and can be removed easily.
There are no negative ingredients or materials associated with soft gel nails. However, it is important to note that improper gel removal or thin, weak, flexible nails can cause soft gel nails to lift. To avoid lifting, it is recommended to scrub your base gel on the free edge part of the nail, apply your base gel with structure, and use a soft builder gel.
