In the world of nail aesthetics, there's a transformative force that goes beyond the ordinary. We're talking about semi-cured gel nails, the secret behind nails that not only look stunning but also endure the test of time. Have you ever wondered about the magic that makes them last longer than regular nail polish? Join us on a scientific journey as we dissect the intricacies of semi-cured gel nails.
The Basics: What Are Semi Cured Gel Nails?
Before we delve into the science, let's understand the foundation. Regular gel nails are a fusion of traditional nail polish and hard gel. However, Sunday Nails’ Semi-cured Gel Nails, is pure gel hardened into shape and semi-cured. Gel nails come in various colours and finishes, allowing for creativity that knows no bounds. What sets them apart is their semi-drying process, offering more control during application and durability that can last for weeks.
The Curing Process: Ultraviolet or LED Light
The crux of semi-cured gel nails lies in the curing process. It's a chemical reaction set into motion by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) or light-emitting diode (LED) light. Here's how it unfolds:
Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strip: The strip of the semi-cured gel nail is made with real liquid gel that is 60% cured. This allows it to be flexible enough to be applied, trimmed, and adjusted according to your nail size. Chemical compounds known as monomers and photoinitiators present inside the gel nail are responsible for the hardening of the gel upon exposure to UV light.
Exposure to Light: Once the semi-cured gel is applied, your nails are placed under a UV or LED lamp. These lamps emit specific wavelengths of light that activate the photoinitiators in the gel.
Chemical Reaction: The photoinitiators absorb the light and undergo a chemical reaction. They act as catalysts, causing the molecules in the gel to link together. This process is known as polymerization.
Instant Drying: As the molecules link and solidify, your nails dry instantly. No more waiting for nail polish to air dry, and no more smudging.
The Strength in Layers
Sunday Nails’ semi-cured gel nails possess multiple layers that serve different roles when it comes to giving you salon-quality polished nails. In most gel nails, you have to apply these layers individually, however, Sunday Nails’ gel nails come layered together, meaning you only have to put them in one go. Here’s how they work:
The medical adhesive: No need to apply each layer individually! Sunday Nails uses a medical adhesive that sticks safely to your nails, allowing the application of your gel nail of choice to be convenient and tedium-free. This allows for higher durability while ensuring you do not damage your nail when removing the gel nail.
The gel: A layer of gel in between the adhesive and the colour and another layer of gel in between the colour and the overlay provides the long-lasting strength and durability that gel nails are famous for. Once they harden under the UV lamp, they can withstand everyday wear and tear, resist chipping, and maintain that gorgeous finish for a long time.
The colour and the overlay: These layers are responsible for the final look of your nails. These two are the layers that speak out for you and give your nails that glossy finish.
Why Do They Last Longer?
Now, let's unravel the secret behind the longevity of semi-cured gel nails:
The Medical Adhesive’s magic: Unlike regular nail polish, which adheres through physical adhesion, and nail wraps which are essentially stickers, Sunday Nails’ gel stickers utilise a medical adhesive. This means it’s more robust and less prone to peeling while being completely safe to remove without damaging your nails.
Durability: The gel layers in the gel nail harden on exposure to UV light, giving you nail art that can last for several days and withstand daily wear and tear so much more than regular nail polish.
Instant Drying: The instant drying feature eliminates the risk of smudging and maintains the integrity of the nail design.
Factors Influencing Durability
Several factors contribute to the lasting power of semi-cured gel nails:
Quality of Products: High-quality products tend to offer better durability. It's essential to invest in reputable brands and products.
Application Technique: Proper application plays a pivotal role in the longevity of your manicure.
Nail Preparation: Preparing your natural nails by cleaning and removing oils ensures a strong bond between the gel and the nail.
Aftercare: Using cuticle oil to help loosen the gel nail sticker adhesive for easy removal while instantly nourishing your nails.
The Parting Thoughts
Semi-cured gel nails are not just about aesthetics; they are a marriage of art and science. The curing process, chemical reactions, and the quality of products all converge to deliver nails that endure. So, whether you're sporting a classic shade or an intricate nail art masterpiece, you can do it with confidence, knowing the science behind semi-cured gel nails has got your back.
