Why So Many Different UV Nail Gels?: By Rise’ Carter
Are you just down right confused as to the vast variety of gels and how different they each are? Do we really need all of them to have a successful gel enhancement service on the menu? Let’s take a closer look at one differentiator, viscosity, and how subtle changes can make a big difference.
Viscosity refers to the measure of a liquids’ ability to flow: closely related to thinness or thickness. The need for different viscosities will vary based on the desired finished look and length of the enhancement and the climate in which you are working.
Thin to Medium Viscosity Gels
Balance One Step, Balance Brush On French White, Balance Color Gels, Balance Finish Clear, Illusion Soak-Off Color Gels, Illusion Soak-Off Base Gel, Illusion Soak-Off Top Coat Gel, Illusion Shine Gel, Perma Gloss
The gels are generally used to base the nail with a lock-in layer, to “polish” the nail with color or French, or finish an enhancement with a high shine. If you are building an enhancement with only thin to medium viscosity gels, shorter length nail, toenail, or natural nail overlay services are preferable.
Medium Viscosity Gels
Balance Builder Gels
These can be used in conjunction with a thinner gel to “build” a slight apex for some added durability. Because of the added strength, you can sculpt or create longer enhancements with medium viscosity gels.
Medium to Thick Viscosity Gels
Body Builder Gels
These gels are great for warmer climates/environments because heat will affect the viscosity of any gel. You may be successfully using Builder Gels in the winter and find that when summer rolls around, the gel is leveling too much – that’s the heat/temperature affecting the workability of the gel. Body Builders are thicker (to counteract the warm environment) and build more structure for the apex, while adding durability for longer enhancements.
Super-Thick Viscosity Gels
Balance Sculptor Gels, Balance 3D Color Gels
These are used for sculpting on a form without the need for “locking” the free edge in the UV lamp (sculpting all 5 nails before curing!) or for creating a raised element in a nail design.
In conclusion, you don’t need to invest in all gels in every color and viscosity to start a successful gel business. Begin with the basics, but be sure to try the many different viscosities. Add more as you grow to better customize your gel services for each and every client. They will appreciate the specialization of their enhancements and their increased tips and referrals will prove it!
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Your blog is like an encyclopedia for those who want to know more about this. Thanks for the interesting information.