Gel nail polish is a popular choice for many individuals due to its durability and shine. However, not everyone wants to invest in a gel nail polish manicure every time they want long-lasting nails. The good news is that there is a way to maximize the longevity of regular nail polish without investing in a gel manicure – by applying a gel top coat over regular nail polish. This raises the question: Can you put gel top coat over regular nail polish? The answer may surprise you!
What is Gel Top Coat?
Gel top coat is a transparent polish that is applied to the top of nail polish to increase the longevity of the manicure. It is specially formulated to provide a high-level of shine and durability that can last up to two weeks or more. Gel top coat can be used over regular nail polish, as well as gel polish. This makes it a great option for individuals who want to extend the life of their regular nail polish manicure.
How Do You Apply Gel Top Coat Over Regular Nail Polish?
The process of applying a gel top coat over regular nail polish is relatively easy. Here’s how to do it:
- Apply a base coat to clean, dry nails and let it dry completely
- Apply your favorite regular nail polish color and let it dry completely
- Apply a layer of gel top coat, making sure to cap the edges of the nails to prevent chipping
- Cure the gel top coat under a UV or LED lamp for the recommended time period (typically 30-60 seconds)
- Apply a second layer of gel top coat and cure under the lamp
- Use a lint-free wipe and rubbing alcohol to remove any residue and reveal a shiny, long-lasting manicure
It’s important to note that not all gel top coats are created equal. Be sure to select a high-quality, reputable brand to ensure the best results.
Benefits of Using Gel Top Coat Over Regular Nail Polish
There are several benefits to using a gel top coat over regular nail polish. These include:
- Durability: Gel top coat provides a level of durability and shine that can last up to two weeks or more
- Cost-effective: Gel top coat is a great option for individuals who want a long-lasting manicure without investing in a gel manicure. It allows you to use your favorite regular nail polish colors and extend their lifespan.
- Easy to apply: Applying gel top coat over regular nail polish is an easy process that can be done at home with the right tools and products.
Are There Any Downsides to Using Gel Top Coat Over Regular Nail Polish?
While there are many benefits to using gel top coat over regular nail polish, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
- Damage: The curing process for gel top coat can cause damage to the nail bed when done frequently over an extended period of time.
- Peeling: Depending on the quality of the gel top coat, it may peel or chip faster than a traditional gel manicure.
- Removal: Removing gel top coat can be a time-consuming process that involves soaking the nails in acetone for an extended period of time.
Can You Use Gel Top Coat Over Any Type of Regular Nail Polish?
While it is possible to use gel top coat over most types of regular nail polish, it’s important to note that not all nail polish formulas are created equal. Some polishes may not cure properly under the gel top coat, causing it to peel or chip faster. It’s also important to ensure that the regular nail polish is completely dry before applying the gel top coat to prevent smudging or bubbling.
What Type of Regular Nail Polish Works Best with Gel Top Coat?
Cream and jelly-based nail polishes typically work best with gel top coat due to their consistency and ability to cure properly under the UV or LED lamp. However, with the right technique and products, it’s possible to use gel top coat over most types of regular nail polish.
Can You Apply Gel Top Coat Over Water-Based Nail Polish?
Water-based nail polishes are becoming increasingly popular due to their eco-friendliness and non-toxic formulas. However, they are not compatible with gel top coat. Gel top coat requires UV or LED light to cure properly, which can cause water-based nail polish to break down and peel. It’s best to use a non-water-based regular nail polish when using a gel top coat.
Can You Apply Gel Top Coat Over Matte Nail Polish?
Matte nail polish provides a unique finish that can add a touch of glamour to any manicure. However, it’s not recommended to use gel top coat over matte nail polish. The properties of the matte finish can cause the gel top coat to peel or chip faster, resulting in a shorter lifespan for the manicure.
How Do You Remove Gel Top Coat Over Regular Nail Polish?
Removing gel top coat over regular nail polish requires a bit of time and patience. Here’s how to do it:
- Buff the surface of the nail with a nail file to break the seal of the gel top coat
- Soak a cotton ball in acetone and place it directly on top of the nail
- Wrap a small piece of aluminum foil around the cotton ball to hold it in place
- Repeat on all nails and let the acetone soak in for 15-20 minutes
- Use a cuticle stick or gentle cuticle pusher to gently remove the gel top coat and regular nail polish
It’s important to note that acetone can be drying to the nails and cuticles, so it’s important to moisturize the nail bed and cuticles after removal.
Conclusion
Applying a gel top coat over regular nail polish can be a great and cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of your manicure. While there are a few potential downsides to consider, as long as you follow the proper technique and use high-quality products, the benefits can outweigh the risks.
FAQs
Here are some common questions and answers related to using gel top coat over regular nail polish:
- Can you use any gel top coat over regular nail polish?
- Can you use regular nail polish over gel top coat?
- Can you apply gel top coat over a nail decal or nail art?
- Can you cure gel top coat under a UV or LED lamp without regular nail polish?
- Can you apply gel top coat over acrylic nails?
It’s important to use a high-quality, reputable brand to ensure that the gel top coat cures properly and provides the desired level of shine and durability.
While it is possible to apply regular nail polish over gel top coat, it’s not recommended. The properties of the regular nail polish may not adhere properly to the gel top coat, resulting in a shorter lifespan for the manicure.
Yes, it’s possible to apply gel top coat over nail decals or nail art. Just be sure to let the nail art dry completely before applying the gel top coat to prevent smudging or bubbling.
No, gel top coat needs to be applied over regular nail polish or gel polish in order to cure properly under a UV or LED lamp.
Yes, gel top coat can be applied over acrylic nails to provide a high level of shine and durability.
References
Deb, R. (2019, February 5). Can I Put Gel Top Coat Over Regular Nail Polish? Beautispiration. https://beautispiration.com/can-i-put-gel-top-coat-over-regular-nail-polish/.
Mikesh, M. (2020, September 17). Gel Topcoat Over Regular Nail Polish. Cut Out and Keep. https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/gel-topcoat-over-regular-nail-polish.
ProNails Global. (n.d.). Why Regular Nail Polish Works Perfectly with Gellak Top Coat. ProNails Global. https://www.pronails.com/en/blog/why-regular-nail-polish-works-perfectly-with-gellak-top-coat.