What Is Gel X? A Celebrity Nail Artist Explains
The Pros and Cons of Gel Extension Manicures
Can Gel-X Nail Extensions Cause Allergies?
There have been recent discussions on social between people who have experienced a gel-x nail allergy. This is a potential risk if you are gel curing press-ons and not taking proper precautions. As nail tech Corey Weber puts it: "The most important element with gel curing press-ons is to ensure that the nail is properly cleaned with alcohol and absent of any bubbles during the curing process. If lifting or pockets occur under the press-on, moisture can become trapped and cause a potential infection or 'greenie,' which is a bacterial infection."
This can also happen on your natural nail if the gel-x color you choose isn't clear enough, because that makes it difficult for the LED light to penetrate through the press-on to cure the builder gel. This might lead you to develop an allergy to gel nail products if the uncured gel is left on the surface of your nail.
Other Cons of Gel-X Nail Extensions
The only other potential downside of a Gel-X manicure is the rare occasion when one or more of the tips pop off soon after getting them. "I have seen some nail artists complain about their Gel-X sets popping off in a few days," says Tokyo. "What you need to remember is that proper prep is key in applying Gel-X. And while Gel-X certainly is a much easier skill to pick up when compared to acrylic or hard gel, that doesn't mean it doesn't require any practice for a nail artist."
That's why you want to make sure to go to a reputable nail salon or technician who regularly does Gel-X manicures — and don't be afraid to go back to them if one pops off. Beyond that, there really isn't a downside to a gel extension mani, says Tokyo. Overall, it's a great way to achieve long, strong nails — and play around with nail-art trends.
How Do You Remove Gel Nail Extensions?
This is really the beauty of gel nail extensions. "Since they are made from 100 percent soak-off gel, they can be quickly soaked off with acetone," says Tokyo. The same way you would remove a gel manicure, the nail tech (or you at home) should file off the bulk of the Gel-X tip and polish, and wrap with an acetone-soaked cotton round. You'll soak them for about 20 minutes, or until you can easily push off the remaining gel.
Aviel Kanter is the director of branded content for Vox Media, and oversees lifestyle content across the portfolio of brands. She manages a team of editors that writes articles in the wellness, fitness, beauty, fashion, health, entertaining, pets, and finance categories. She is also a beauty enthusiast and contributes many articles to the PS Beauty editorial site.
Renee Rodriguez is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for the PS TikTok and Instagram accounts.
