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Gel Builder for Professional Nail Technicians: Mastering the Art and Building a Successful Business at Malvern Nailsalon in Conshohocken


A few years ago, Gel Builder nails burst onto the nail scene and revolutionized the concept of nails as a whole. These nails are a good substitute for acrylic nails, they are long lasting, flexible, and most importantly, look natural. All in all, if you seeking to excel in the nail industry, it is crucial to understand how to apply Gel Builder as a qualified nail technician.


At Malvern Nailsalon, located in Conshohocken, we are committed to the provision of premium services which are inclusive of top-class Gel Builder applications. In this article, we will provide essential points and equipment tips related to Gel Builder for usage within a salon environment, how to successfully create sculpture nails atop of Gel Builder, and developmental features of how to succeed in the nail economy using Gel Builder services.


Advice and Equipment for Gel Builder Work Within The Parameters of a Salon


To be able to gel builder application, the correct equipment and familiarity with the product language is a prerequisite along with the right skill set. Please look at a few tips and tools essential for each nail technicians making gel builder applications to make it as effective as possible.


Identification of Various Types of Gel Builder.


  • The application of Gel Builders can differ based on the features required. Sectioning Gel Builders mainly consists of two categories: Hard Gel and Soft Gel.
  • With a Hard Gel you can extend and sculpt nails to perfection, as they are very strong, and adhere to the clients natural nail well, perfect for clients with a long nail preference.
  • Soft gel has a broader range, it is able to be used on all nails, but is typically used for applying polishes or adding strength to mediums or short nails, hence making them more flexible.
  • Gel Builder is the same as any other product however as a professional nail technician you should be aware of when to use a specific type of gel when dealing with specific types of nails as well as the client’s needs and desired nail design.


Right Preparation of Nails is Everything


In enjoying Gel Builder the most important step would be preparing the natural nails thoroughly. Nail prep also makes sure the gel sticks properly and is durable as well. The following are the steps to be taken to prepare the nails properly:

  • Dissolve the Nails: Cut out and remove all the existing nail polish or oil on the nails using nail cleanser. This ensures that the Gel Builder sticks to a cleaned surface.
  • Trim the Natural Nails: The natural nails are to be trimmed in order to smoothen the surface. This helps in ensuring a close bond between the natural nail and the Gel Builder.
  • Polish the Top Layer: Lightly polish the nail top surface to eliminate natural oil and other dirt pollutants from it. The aim is to make it a little rough so that the gel can settle well.
  • Strip out Moisture: Moisten the nail using a nail dehydrator so that no moisture remains on the nails since moisture is a problem for the application of the glue.

It is important to adhere to proper prep as it prevents instances of a Gel Builder application gone wrong as it should never be skipped.


Tools You Will Need for Gel Builder Application


Without these tools, any nail technician applying Gel Builder would struggle: Here’s the list.

  • Gel Brushes: These come in various shapes and sizes. Flat gel brushes assist in spreading the Gel Builder uniformly, and round brushes assist in applying finer details like intricate designs on top.
  • UV/LED Lamp: A good UV or LED source is needed to overcome the large gel builder/gel coat. It is necessary to get a powerful lamp for effective curing.
  • Nail Forms or Tips: While creating extensions, nail forms or tips are required to structure and shape the Gel Builder application.
  • Cuticle Tools: Ensure to choose strong cuticle pushers and nipers to ensure you have a clean and healthy nail bed to work on.
  • Nail Files and Buffers: Different types of nail files and buffers are required to file and buff the nails after Gel Builder curing to correct any imperfections.

These nails have to be kept in check and must be clean to provide good manicure and pedicure services to clients.


Use Thin Coats of Gel for Better Results


Nail technicians who overestimate their skill tend to use an excessive amount of gel when applying Gel Builder. While it may make sense to just apply a thick glob of gel once and be done with it, the best technique is actually the opposite; applying thin layers of gel, one at a time and curing each one before applying the next and covering it as well. This guarantees that the gel is well-cured and that there are no changes to the gel shape or air cavities.


At Malvern Nailsalon, we also aim to highlight that the gel should be applied in thin and uniform layers in order to avoid reinforcing an unrealistic thickness, to get the desired realistic and longevity effect. The good thing about it is that it lasts long so it’s borderline unsurprising it may take a little while longer to get the result.


Properly Cure the Gel


Once you are done applying the Layer of Gel Builder, you should place the nails under a UV or LED lamp in order to properly cure the gel. Ensure that you read the instructions for the selected manufacturer as different gels have their curative times which need to be met. If not, you’ll run the risk of the supposed cured gel not properly curing and being loosely held.


At Malvern Nailsalon, we ensure proper and uniform curing through the application of quality lamps. This step is very important since the Gel Builder is to be bonded onto the nail in a manner that it lasts longer.


Sealing the Edges


In order to avoid the lifting of the Gel Builder at the ends of the nails, always ensure to seal the edges by brushing the free edge nail with a gel. This also guarantees that the gel coating is smooth all around the nail region thereby preventing any possible lifting or peeling in future.


Complete with a quality top coat product


After the application of the Gel Builder is done and nails dry, put an end to the matter by applying an appropriate top coat product. This step not only gives the nails a sheen but also provides coverage to the gel which prevents it from chipping, also peeling off.


Mastering the Nail Sculpting Art with Gel Builder


Sculpting nails using Gel Builder requires practice and an attention to detail. Gel Builder sounds like any other gel but it is quite unique. Unlike traditional acrylics, that harden at once, Gel Builder stays soft and pliable for longer giving you ample time to sculpt and mold. Should you consider sculpting nails using Gel Builder, here are some expert tips for your assistance:


Begin with a good base


Whether you are sculpting nail extensions or strengthening natural nails, always start with the base. Heavy base coats not only cause lifting but can also be uncomfortable. Therefore this base coat allows lifting but has to be spread evenly over the entire nail bed.


Sculpt the nail forms over extensions


To guide the nail shape and length, you can make nail extensions using nail forms. The best part about using nail forms is that they are quite flexible and can be adjusted to fit the shape of the top of the natural nail, limiting the possibility for protrusions on the sides. After this, using the Gel Builder, apply it on the form starting from the cuticle to the free edge.


Slowly Add On Layers


It is also worth mentioning that; building the extension with Gel Builder should be on top of the sculpting technique properly applied – in layers. So: Introduce a small amount of gel, cure that small amount, then add the new layer and Cure it, and you continue doing so until the needed length & thickness is achieved. One thing to note is that coat should be thin to ensure cure and does not become mat and break some where.


Shape the Nail After Curing


Once the gel has dried as per the desired thickness, you can then shape the nail, as per the previously made design, using an appropriate curing temperature. You can use a 120 to 240-grit file to smooth the edges and a buffer for the already fluffy formed areas. Remember to always whittle with the natural curve of the nail close so as not to leave any weight behind by shaping the extension.


Refine the Structure with a Topcoat


When sculpted nails are sharpened and tightened, it is best to coat them with a top which blends all on the sculpted nails. This ensures shine as well as additive safety to the sculpted nail.


The Success of the Gel Builder Service in Your Nail Business


As a competent manicurist, it is advisable to make use of Gel Builder services in your works as this will give you a competitive edge and promote customer retention. Here are a number of things you can do so as to expand your nail business in Malvern nailsalon through the use of Gel Builder services:


Customizable Personalization


One of the best selling factors of Gel Builder is that it opens an avenue for creativity by permitting socially constructed designs for each customer. Offering these clients the opportunity to get Gel Builder nails in their preferred shape and length will enhance the competitiveness of your salon. At Malvern Nailsalon, we provide an extensive range of Gel Builder nail services so that all clients who walk into the salon are satisfied with the nails they have been given.


Outstanding Customer Service


Gel Builder satisfied customers are potential clients for other services. Exceptional customer service is required for clients to stick with you. Ensure that your salon appears friendly, schedule meetings to specifically give the client an understanding of what you will be doing, and justify every step you take in Gel Builder to the client.


Keep Yourself Informed With The Latest Trends And Techniques


The trends as well as the techniques in the

nail industry change with every passing day. To keep your services in the race of competition with regards to client’s needs, it is best to stay in touch with the latest Service Builder trends and technology. Go for workshops, read available literature and try new designs so that your clients always have something new to have a go at.


Advertise Your Gel Builder Services Using Various Platforms


Social media has become one of the most effective means of advertising Gel Builder nail services on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. Post pictures of the work done by you, before and after images and try to communicate with many potential clients for better visibility. Social interaction with clients also helps when establishing a brand name for the cosmetics you are dealing with.


Provide Service Packages And Discounts


Make repeat purchases favorable to the customers of Gel Builder services by providing them with packages or discounted prices. For instance, you could charge the client less on their second appointment or introduce a loyalty program under which they receive bonuses after a specified number of your services. It will also be beneficial to provide discounts and packages so as to increase the client base in the long term.


Conclusion


For modern-day nail technicians, Gel Builder application has become one of the core techniques if somebody is looking to grow in today's nail profession. Applying Gel Builder to either a natural nail or in sculpting detailed nail enhancements requires the right mastery to achieve great results for your clientele.


When these critical pointers have been understood and some more emphasis on your sculpting techniques is there, you can unfold a remarkable Gel Builder business targetted towards enhanced nail expectations. We at Malvern Nailsalon in Conshohocken pride ourselves in applying the newest Gels and Gel Builder application techniques in order to provide the best quality to our clientele. Reach out to us today and let us help you grow your nail business into the new Millenia with Gel Builder nails.