What Defines High-Quality Gel Nail Polish? The Science Behind the Perfect Formula

In recent years, the world of nail care and aesthetics has undergone major changes, with gel nail polish taking center stage. This innovation has revolutionized the way we do our nails, providing long-lasting, high-gloss results that are difficult to achieve with traditional nail polish. Choosing a good gel nail polish to provide a stunning manicure is crucial. However, with the wide variety of choices available in the market, it can certainly be a daunting task.

In this blog, MelodySusie will take you through the components of gel nail polish and provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of gel nail polish.

The Science Behind Gel Nail Polish

Gel nail polish technology has benefited from the development of UV curing technology. It generally consists of resins, reactive diluents, photoinitiators, additives with different functions, and pigments. Under UV light, the photoinitiators in the gel nail polish are stimulated and decomposed, and after a series of chemical reactions, a film is formed by cross-linking. In simple terms, through the UV or LED light, the ingredients in the gel nail polish will undergo a light curing reaction, resulting in a durable and chip-resistant finish that is different from traditional nail polish.

A good gel nail polish relies on high-quality ingredients and ratios. Gel nail polishes that use high-quality resins, pigments, and other additives and perfectly mix these ingredients usually have a smoother application, brighter colors, and longevity. However, among the wide array of nail brands on the market, gel nail polish formulas vary. As an average buyer, how do we choose the best gel nail polish for us?

What Makes a High-Quality Gel Nail Polish?

1. Color

The color of the gel nail polish plays an important role in the overall effect of a manicure. A good gel nail polish usually has a high saturation, looks evenly colored when applied, and is less likely to stain the nail. If you think of nails as canvases, then gel nail polish is the nail artist's paint. Choosing a brand of gel nail polish that has a wide range of colors can give you more options and creativity to match any mood, occasion, or outfit you have.

2. Curing Process

A gel nail polish that does not have significant curing heat and cures completely within 60s usually has better curing properties. At the same time, a good gel nail polish should also be able to cure without shrinking and wrinkling. Additionally, different colors of pigment will selectively absorb and conditionally reflect UV or LED light, so the curing speed of gel nail polish is varied for different hues. In general, black, white, phthalocyanine and yellow gel nail polish take longer to cure than other colors.

3. Operability

Brush texture, smoothness of application, and impurities impact the manicure process and final result. Smooth gel polish covers nails evenly, while a quality brush ensures precise edges. Beginners prefer moderate gel consistency, avoiding spills and difficulty in application. Thicker gel aids professionals in achieving one-coat color. Quality gel polish is free of impurities and air bubbles, ensuring flawless application and coating.

4. Durability

The durability of gel nail polish depends on proper buffing and nail condition. Improper buffing or soft, thin nails can lead to lifting and chipping. In this case, you can use a compact nail drill bit like small sanding bands to carefully buff the nail edges, or use a builder gel and nail strengthener to keep your nails in better condition. In addition, the base coat is also a key influence on the durability of a manicure. Applying a base coat enhances adhesion between the color gel and the nail surface, while also acting as a barrier to prevent pigmentation deposition. Remember to apply a base coat before the color gel to ensure longevity. With proper application and nail care, quality gel polish can last up to 3 to 4 weeks without lifting or peeling.

5. Personal Feeling

Your personal experience with a gel nail polish is crucial in determining its suitability. A comfortable gel polish should not cause a strong burning sensation or emit harsh odors, and may even have a light floral scent. If you're allergy-prone, it's advisable to steer clear of gel polishes containing HEMA ingredients. Opt for a gel polish that doesn't cause discomfort to prevent unnecessary pain and sensitivity.

All in all, selecting quality gel nail polish is straightforward when you're informed about its ingredients and features. At MelodySusie, we have professional staff members who carefully mix and test gel nail polish for you to ensure that the MelodySusie gel nail polish you purchase has highly saturated colors, high pigmentation, ideal curing effect, excellent workability, and long-lasting durability. We're continuously expanding our gel polish range to offer you a wider selection and endless creative possibilities. Stay tuned!

Remember, the key to a stunning manicure lies in the quality of the products you use, and MelodySusie’s nail tools are a choice you can't go wrong with. For more of MelodySusie's nail drill products, please click here.