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What You Need to Know About Gel Polish Bases

Everything about gel polish bases, what should you know before buying?

Sofía HerreraSofía Herrera· · 3 min read

The base is a gel coating that ensures reliable adhesion of gel polish to the nail plate. It can be transparent and used as a base for colour or for nail construction, or it can have a natural tone; this type is ideal for French manicures. Various base options can be found at https://oopsnailsbcn.es/.

Types of Bases

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There are actually many:

  • The most common is the rubber base, which is distinguished by its elasticity and thick consistency. Thanks to the rubber in its composition, it spreads evenly over the nail, does not run to the sides, and perfectly fills irregularities and depressions. It is ideal for thin and brittle nails that are prone to bending;
  • Acrylic base: this synthetic type contains acrylic powder. Acrylic provides a hard coating and very strong adhesion to the nail surface. It is most often used for nail construction and correction, as well as in cases of allergy to other types of bases;
  • Silicone bases: these are special silicone adhesives that allow the coating to be removed without damaging the nail. They are applied to a clean, dry, and degreased surface, then the shape is adjusted with a file and bubbles are removed with an orange stick. This method is suitable for fragile, damaged, or traumatized nails;
  • Camouflage base: it has a gel base and often combines top, base, and gel polish. It is a typical representative of one-phase systems: it applies easily and lasts on the nails for 1 to 2 weeks. Its main advantage is the ability to hide defects and level the nail plate. It generally has a natural tone, making it ideal for French manicures as well.

How to Choose a Gel Polish Base

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There are several main criteria:

  • Consistency: liquid products apply faster and generate less heat in the lamp, as they do not allow for thick layers. Dense formulas require more time but facilitate the creation of correct architecture;
  • Type: self-leveling bases are ideal for beginners or when nails do not require reconstruction. Very dense and reinforced bases for partial extensions require specific skills. Some bases have natural tones that cover colour defects;
  • Composition: organic monomers provide excellent durability. Rubber substitutes offer a thick “rubber-like” consistency and allow the product to self-level.

Different types of bases can be found at https://oopsnailsbcn.es/collections/bases-transparente.

What is Nail Base Used For

The gel polish base is an essential component that plays a key role in creating a durable and long-lasting manicure. This product acts as a protective barrier between the natural nail and the gel polish, providing not only adhesion but also other important functions.

The base coating has a number of useful properties that contribute to a high-quality and long-lasting result:

  • prevents the penetration of pigments into the nail plate;
  • levels the surface of the nail, hiding its imperfections;
  • strengthens the natural nail, allowing even thin and brittle nails to maintain the coating for several weeks;
  • can be used for partial nail reconstruction, for example, to correct the corners.

The correct application of the base plays a key role in the final result. The choice of base coating should be made considering the individual characteristics of each nail. A careful analysis of the state of the nails will help choose the right base, ensuring a durable coating and the health of the natural nails.

Sofía Herrera

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Sofía Herrera