Differences Between Soak-Off & Traditional Gels
When gels were first introduced to the nail industry in the mid 80’s, the goal was to create a strong and durable enhancement (parallel to acrylic) with a glossy, hard finish.
The base urethane acrylate oligomers chosen to create these gels had a tight molecular structure, resulting in a lower molecular weight. This made them highly resistant to solvents (Acetone).
Oligomer Molecular Structure- Traditional UV Gel
Recently, a new category of gels, soak-off gels, have become popular. Some technicians liked the idea of soaking-off gels over filing because there is no dust and less manual effort for removal. Others found the easy-to-remove system an easy sell to upgrade natural nail manicure clients to a chip-proof soak-off gel service.
Why can one gel be soaked off and not another?
It alls go back to the base urethane acrylate oligomer that is chosen for the gel. Soak-off gels are a specifically designed and formulated Modified Urethane Acrylate with a higher molecular weight which results in an elongated molecular structure. This creates space between the cross-linking agents and the oligomers allowing penetration of solvents which break down the gel.
Oligomer Molecular Structure- Soak-Off Gel UV Gel
The first soak-off gels were made in the late 80’s and while they could be removed after being soaked in Acetone, they left little else to be desired. They were very thin, cured to a dull finish and felt rubbery. They also had a yellowish tint, even in the jar!
Soak-off gel chemistry of today, most recently exhibited with the launch of Illusion Soak-Off Gels, still can be removed with Acetone, or a like substance, but have more of the positive qualities found in traditional gels. Illusion Soak-Off Gels are slightly thicker, which gives the technician the option to build the nail. They color clarity is superior (no yellowing) and they cure to a harder, shinier finish.
Overall, today’s soak-off gels are more durable than ever before, can be shaped easily with a file and above all offer the nail technician an exciting service to promote for increased income.