Who wouldn’t enjoy a manicure? It’s basically giving your tired hands a pamper session and they always turn out looking amazing in those candy-coated colors. Sadly, manicures generally last from 3 – 7 days, depending on how you care for them, and the quality of the product you use. The gel manicure is probably one of the most brilliant inventions to date in the beauty department since you’re entitled to do whatever you want, and your nails will still look as pretty despite it all.
But are gel manicures all that great compared to classic manicures? We’ve listed down the pros and cons of the gel manicure based on our own experience.
PROS
1. One of the benefits of gel manicures is that they often feel and look natural on your nails due to its flexible and thin layers.
2. It has mind-blowing staying power, and it doesn’t chip at all. It can last up to 2 weeks or more and it can look as fresh as the first day you had your manicure.
3. The procedures to get it done is quick, and it will dry as soon as your manicure is done. The UV light uses heat to dry it, so immediately after it’s done, you can fumble through your back for your keys and even put on your tight jeans without having to worry about smudging your nails.
4. If you ever get bored with the color you have on, you can always add on a layer of glitter polish to spice it up a little, without having to compromise your color. You can swipe off the glitter polish, and your gel manicure will still remain the same.
CONS
1. The gel formula does not last around the cuticle area, so when it does start to wear off, it’s totally visible around the cuticles.
2. You can’t remove the gel yourself unless you’re able to find a soak-in chemical, which is possibly contains more chemicals than acetone.
3. The exposure to UV light from set the gel polish may cause cancer. It’s been said to be a myth, but if you’re paranoid, just ask them to apply some sunscreen over your hands before you place it in the UV nail lamp.
4. It can be quite pricey, and if you’re one to switch up your nail colors often, then the gel manicure is not for you because you’ll be rushing to get it removed
5. Removing the nail polish professionally can also cost you money, so unless you’re going on a tropical holiday for a few weeks, then a gel manicure might come in handy.
