Common Issues with Gel Builder Valley Forge and Solutions: How to Fix Lifting, Drips, and Air Bubbles at Malvern Nailsalon

Gel Builder nails are great for clients who want their nails to last, be flexible, and simply look good. This amazing Nail Gel System has gained a large popularity for nail extensions, nail overlay, and nail designs. However, as many nail extension techniques, Gel Builder has its disadvantages especially if not correctly applied. Lifting, drips, runs, air bubbles may occur but there is always a chance to eliminate such flaws in case the proper techniques and precautionary measures are applied.

At Malvern Nailsalon located in Valley Forge, frustrating clients dealing with such issues is not our style; we control and prevent these issues from arising. In this detailed article, we are going to highlight and discuss the causes of most common problems experienced by clients who use Gel Builder nails, together with their solutions. Whether it’s a home cheerleader or a professional builder, all Gel Builder's users will be able to hand solve any issues that may come up thus making Gel Builder nails an attractive option.

Why Does Gel Builder Lift or Peel, and How to Prevent It?

Causes of Builder Gel Lifting or Peeling

Lifting or peeling is a common issue and one of the most irritating problems with gel builder nails. This failure occurs when the gel loses its ability to properly bond to the natural nail and consequently, the nail dislodges over a period of time. Here are a couple of possible reasons.

Insufficient Nail Prep

Insufficient nail prep is one of the key factors contributing to nail lifts. Failing to take adequate care of the natural nails through cleaning, shaping and buffing will make it difficult for the Gel Builder to latch onto the nails. The nails have to be clean of oil, dirt and other substances for the gel to adhere firmly.

Moisture or Oils on the Nail Plate

Before applying the gel, if there’s moisture or natural oils on the nail plate, that can act as a barrier that will make it hard for the Gel Builder to firmly adhere. Moisture is also sticky and when left on a nail before application it will make it impossible for the gel to attach properly resulting in gel lifts.

Gel Cure Problems

If the gel cure is not done right, the gel may be partially cured, which will lead to consequences like lifting or peeling. Sometimes a gel doesn't achieve a full cure due to insufficient lamp strength or the gel being undercured.

Excessively Sticking Gel Builder

Lifting can also result from applying Gel Builder in excessive amounts. Stress points that can occur with too thick of an application—especially at the edges or cuticles—can contribute to lifting. This can be avoided by spreading Gel Builder in smaller evenly spaced layers.

Remedies to Avoid Lifting or Peeling Off

This article gives several recommendations to prevent lifting or peeling of Gel Builder nails:

Nail Preparation

• Ensure that the nails are properly prepped right before the Gel Builder application. This includes:
• Using a nail cleanser to obliterate any oil, dirt or debris from the nails.
• Pushing back and cutting any extra cuticle skin around the toenails.
• Using a fine grit buffer to smooth out the nail surface so that it is rough for the gel to stick.
• Using a nail dehydrator or an alcohol swipe to eliminate any residue moisture or oil.

Apply Gel With Adequate Thickness

When applying the gel, ensure that layers are thin and each layer is first cured under the UV or LED lamp. Having thicker layers can cause lifting since they could have a lot of air trapped meaning more stress points. The target is to ensure a nice thin smooth coating is done at all times.

Curing of Nails and Slab

Place the gel under a lamp but first ensure that it is properly applied. Depending on the type and strength of the lamp, the curing time may differ, and it’s important to check for nail manufacturers advise here.

Moisture or Oils Management

It is integral that fingers and hands do not have any oils or moisture before using Gel Builder. Nails should be squeaky clean and dry with no moisture or oils. Throughout the entire application process, the fingers should not touch the nails which ensures that skin oils do not transfer and aids in adhesion.

Remedies to Avoid Lifting or Peeling Off

This article gives several recommendations to prevent lifting or peeling of Gel Builder nails:

Nail Preparation

• Ensure that the nails are properly prepped right before the Gel Builder application. This includes:
• Using a nail cleanser to obliterate any oil, dirt or debris from the nails.
• Pushing back and cutting any extra cuticle skin around the toenails.
• Using a fine grit buffer to smooth out the nail surface so that it is rough for the gel to stick.
• Using a nail dehydrator or an alcohol swipe to eliminate any residue moisture or oil.

Apply Gel With Adequate Thickness

When applying the gel, ensure that layers are thin and each layer is first cured under the UV or LED lamp. Having thicker layers can cause lifting since they could have a lot of air trapped meaning more stress points. The target is to ensure a nice thin smooth coating is done at all times.

Curing of Nails and Slab

Place the gel under a lamp but first ensure that it is properly applied. Depending on the type and strength of the lamp, the curing time may differ, and it’s important to check for nail manufacturers advise here.

Moisture or Oils Management

It is integral that fingers and hands do not have any oils or moisture before using Gel Builder. Nails should be squeaky clean and dry with no moisture or oils. Throughout the entire application process, the fingers should not touch the nails which ensures that skin oils do not transfer and aids in adhesion.

What to Do If Gel Builder Drips or Runs in Valley Forge

Gel drips or runs, more often than not in nail procedures, happens due to the Gel Builder being too viscous. Using thicker gell, more often than not, leads to a drag through the application, as the gel does not freely move as it should. However, it is important to remember, drips or runs creates uneven surfaces, which results in the work producing less than ideal results. Reasons as to why and how to overcome these challenges is given below:

Causes of Gel Nail Drips or Runs

No one likes drips, be it off the fingers or off the Application. The simplest way to fix that is by using a bit less gel than you think you might need. But a thick gel such as the Builder will work efficiently, given it is an in-between. Applying a bit too much gel can result in it falling off, but applying a thin layer will be able to do be effective.

Gel Too Thin

Some Gel Builders have a thinner body which increases the chances of the gel running over and dripping off the side of the nails while being incorporated. But there’s also temperature that can affect the viscosity of the gel; If the weather is hot, the gel will remain thinner and will drip more.

• Wrong Application: Technique Snap gel application can also be an improper technique which might result in gel pooling at the cuticles or the tip of the nail, more so before the charm even cures.

Solutions for Gel Drips or Runs

Use the right amount of gel Dip your brush only slightly into the gel until it covers just the tip. Instead of using up a lot of product at first, it is advisable to use less and then apply more if needed. Excess gel on the brush should always be cleaned before being applied on the nail.

Work in small sections Start off applying the gel by dipping it in minimal amount then start applying from the bottom of the nail and work towards to the tip gently in parts. This will not only allow for better application but will also prevent the gel from dripping.

Manage the Temperature If the gel is too thin, cooling down the environment may help. If it’s too thick, a slight warmth may help in working with it. Maintaining the temperature in controlled zones also makes sure the viscosity of the gel remains appropriate.

As an instance, clean gel that has liquid at the cuticles, rather than letting it cure. When curing ends up messing up the entire finish on the nail, see how much of a difference this can make during application to the edges or cuticles before curing.

• Applying Tip: Adjusting Temperature Extreme chemical reactions might occur when gel builder nails are applied due to air bubbles. But they tend to do the opposite of what you expect. If you do not have any air bubbles around, gel platform may appear quite uneven. But it does allow you to do fine work on the nails, assuming you have the patience to complete the application and the proper tools.

Air Bubbles and Defects: An Overview

Gel Misuse Neglecting to gently handle the Gel Builder may result in the introduction of gasses within the mesh material of the gel. Some instances of negligence during brush application result in a considerable number of strokes increasing pressure adding gasses into the mesh material.

Bad Curing Process during Gel Application Nail Polish

During gel application, if the edges are not cured properly or in a hurry, gas bubbles might settle and mix within the gel. This is by far, the commonest defect associated with Gel Builder.

Dirty or Moist Surface of Nails If the gel surface of the nail is treated or cleaned with oils before application and there is moisture or dust, there is a probability of ruining the smoothness of the gel.

Air Bubbles and Imperfections: Diagnosis & Remediation

• Patience is Key: Air bubbles can be incorporated in the final mesh material of the Gel Builder by improper working practices. Use of small strokes rather than large ones during gel application prevents air bubbles from forming as a result of excess pressure on the gel. Each stroke used during the process should focus on creating thin and thin layers of gel.
• Look for Air Bubbles: While Applying the Gel Building This point is quite crucial; while applying the Gel Builder, look out for air bubbles that are likely to form. In situations where one or two bubbles form, use a fine brush or an orangewood stick to tap the bubbles gently and smoothen them before the gel is cured.
• Cure Slowly: This helps to avoid the formation of air bubbles between the gel layers. Slow and consistent curing can help to greatly deal with air pockets between the gel as it requires time to harden completely.
• Smoothen: Encompassing the Nails Gels and or nail polish make dip nails look amazing; however, small blemishes like air bubbles or lumps can be distracting once cured. Lightly buffing the surface with a fine buffer can smoothen the surface of the nail. It is best to exercise moderation whilst buffing as excessive use can damage the gel and the clients’ natural nails.
• Capping with A Top Coat: I advise you to first polish the matte top and then go ahead and apply a top coat so as to make the nails shine even more as the top coat covers very small indents and lumps that are on top nanotubes, which smoothens the surface.

Conclusion

Although Gel Builder nails are appealing because they last a while, their application has its challenges. At Malvern Nailsalon in Valley Forge, we understand that issues like lifting, drips, and air bubbles are common but manageable. By understanding the causes of these problems and implementing the solutions provided, you can enjoy a smooth, flawless Gel Builder application every time.

Adequate nail preparation, proper layering of the product during application, and correctly setting the curing light will tackle most of these problems. In those situations where you notice these problems, do not worry because in most instances the problem can be resolved by being a little more careful and attentive. These tips will ensure that you get the most out of Gel Builder nails whether you are doing it yourself or visiting a nail salon for a design.