The Mystery Of Shellac Base Coats: Why Sticky?

It is normal for a Shellac base coat to remain sticky after curing. This tackiness allows the following coats to stick to the nail. To remove the tackiness, you can use a gel cleanser or alcohol on a lint-free wipe.

Using alcohol to remove stickiness

It is normal to have sticky nails after applying shellac. To remove the sticky residue, you can use alcohol. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

You will need alcohol and cotton balls (or cotton pads/rags/cloth/Q-tips). Almost any type of alcohol will work, including rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol or isopropanol alcohol), alcohol hand gel, gin, or vodka.

Step 2: Prepare the Cotton Balls

Soak the cotton balls in the alcohol of your choice. If you are using a liquid alcohol, such as gin or vodka, you can pour a few drops onto the cotton ball or lint-free cloth.

Step 3: Apply to the Nails

Gently rub each nail with the alcohol-soaked cotton ball. You can also try pouring a few drops of alcohol onto a lint-free cloth and rubbing it over your nails.

Step 4: Allow to Dry

After removing the sticky residue with alcohol, make sure to allow your nails to dry completely before applying another coat of polish.

Alternative Methods:

If you do not want to use alcohol to remove the stickiness, there are a few alternative methods you can try:

• Use a non-acetone nail polish remover: Apply a small amount to a cotton ball or pad and gently wipe away the sticky residue. This method may require a bit more effort and time.
• Use micellar water: Micellar water is gentle and effective, especially if you have sensitive skin. Apply it to a cotton pad and wipe away the sticky residue.
• Use soapy water: Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild soap or dishwashing liquid. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away the residue, ensuring that all areas of the nails are covered. Then, rinse your nails with warm water and allow them to dry naturally.
• Use petroleum jelly: Rub a small amount of petroleum jelly onto the sticky residue until it breaks down and becomes easier to remove. Use cotton swabs or a cloth to wipe away the excess. Petroleum jelly also has the added benefit of moisturizing your hands and nails.

The importance of curing

Curing is an essential step in the shellac application process. It involves using a UV lamp to harden and set the shellac, ensuring that it adheres firmly to the nail. Without proper curing, the shellac will remain sticky and can be easily peeled off.

Curing each layer of shellac for the recommended time is crucial. The base coat should be cured for 10 seconds, while the colour coat and top coat typically require 2 minutes each. However, it's important to follow the specific instructions for your chosen brand of shellac. Over-curing or under-curing can lead to issues such as chipping, lifting, or a rubbery texture.

The placement of the hand under the UV lamp is also vital. The thumb should be placed at the red marks, and the hand should be lying still before pushing the button to start the curing process. Incorrect hand placement can result in insufficient curing and affect the overall durability of the shellac manicure.

Additionally, it's important to use the correct type of lamp for curing. The CND LED lamp is specifically designed for curing CND SHELLAC® and helps ensure optimal results. Using alternative lamps may not provide the same level of curing and can lead to issues such as wrinkling or discolouration.

Curing plays a critical role in achieving a long-lasting and durable shellac manicure. It ensures that the shellac adheres securely to the nail and reduces the chances of chipping or peeling. By following the recommended curing times and proper hand placement, you can enhance the overall quality and longevity of your shellac manicure.

Using a gel cleanser

It is normal to have sticky nails after applying Shellac. To remove the sticky residue, you can use alcohol and a cotton ball to rub each nail.

Gel cleansers are ideal for deep cleansing. They are water-based cleansers that are suitable for all skin types, especially those with sensitive and acne-prone skin. Here are the steps to follow when using a gel cleanser:

• Wash your face with warm water: Find the right lukewarm temperature to open your pores without damaging your skin.
• Apply the gel: Squeeze a small amount of gel onto your fingertips.
• Massage your face: Gently massage the gel onto your face in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outwards. Pay extra attention to your T-zone and the area around your nose.
• Rinse: After thoroughly cleansing your T-zone and nose, rinse your face with water.
• Optional: Micellar water or toner: Although not necessary, you can add micellar water or a light, essential oil-free toner to your routine after rinsing your face.

Gel cleansers are perfect for deep cleansing and unclogging pores, removing dirt, and controlling excess oil. They are also effective in treating acne due to their antiseptic and soothing qualities.

Bulbs in curing lamps

The curing process involves using high-intensity ultraviolet light to create a photochemical reaction that instantly cures the shellac. This is achieved by pointing the UV lamp at the shellac-coated nail, which then activates and hardens the shellac. The UV light bulb manufacturers offer different lamp styles, including medium-pressure UV, high-pressure UV, and low-pressure amalgam UV.

The UV curing process is a safe and energy-efficient alternative to heat-curing methods. It is also simpler to maintain and does not require exhaust systems as it does not produce noxious fumes. Additionally, the instant curing nature of UV light speeds up production times and improves the consistency and quality of the finished product.

It is important to note that while UV curing lamps are effective, some people may have concerns about UV exposure. It is recommended to research the potential risks associated with UV light exposure and take appropriate precautions if necessary.

Allergic reactions to uncured gel

Shellac nails are meant to be sticky after application—this is completely normal. The stickiness can be removed by rubbing alcohol on the nails.

An allergic reaction to uncured gel nail polish can cause a range of symptoms, from mild irritation to severe rashes and even breathing difficulties. The chemicals in gel nail polishes, known as methacrylates, can seep into the skin and cause an allergic reaction. This is known as contact dermatitis, which occurs when uncured gel comes into contact with the skin. Symptoms include immediate burning or pain, inflammation, redness, blistering, and lifting of the nail from the nail bed.

A delayed hypersensitivity reaction can occur in people who have been repeatedly exposed to the chemical. This type of reaction is an immune response, and even a tiny amount of the chemical can trigger a full inflammatory cascade. Those with eczema or compromised skin barriers are at a higher risk of developing an allergic reaction to nail glue.

It's important to note that an allergy to gel nail polish is not curable and will not resolve with time. Once a person develops an allergy to a specific chemical, they are often allergic to it for life. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid direct skin contact with uncured gel nail polish and to seek medical advice if an allergic reaction occurs.

To prevent an allergic reaction, it is recommended to use nitrile gloves when applying gel nail polish and to change them frequently. Additionally, ensure that your nails are fully cured under a UV lamp and follow the manufacturer's instructions for at-home manicures.

Frequently asked questions