Are you wondering if your gel base coat is supposed to be sticky? You’re not alone. As a nail enthusiast and a DIY’er, I’ve asked myself this question way too many times.
So I did some research, and it turns out that gel base coats are supposed to be sticky. In fact, stickiness is one of the things that makes gel base coats so effective.
Read on to learn more about why a gel base coat is supposed to be sticky.
Is a gel base coat supposed to be sticky?
Yes, a gel base coat is supposed to be sticky.
The sticky texture helps the base coat adhere to your nails and creates a smooth, even surface for your gel polish. So if you notice that your gel base coat is a bit sticky, don’t worry – it’s meant to be that way.
It’s also important to know that the amount of stickiness in a gel base coat varies from brand to brand and some brands are stickier than others. While gel base coats can be a bit tricky to work with, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be a pro in no time.
SEE: Here Are The Best Gel Nail Polish Every Beginner Should Start With
Can you use a traditional base coat instead of a gel base coat?
The answer is yes.
However, keep in mind that a traditional base coat will not provide the same high-gloss finish as a gel base coat.
If you’re using a traditional base coat, be sure to apply it thinly and evenly. You may need to use three coats or more to achieve your desired coverage. Once your base coat is dry, apply your polish as usual.
How long does it take to cure a gel base coat?
1 minute.
It takes about one minute for a gel base coat to cure in a UV or LED lamp. You can tell when the base coat has cured because it will be hard to the touch and will no longer be tacky.
SEE: How to Remove Gel Nail Polish From Your Nails
Can you over-cure a gel base coat?
Yes, you can over-cure a gel base coat.
Over-curing your gel base coat can cause the gel to lose its shine and become dull. It can also cause the base coat to be more difficult to remove, leading to brittle and damaged nails.
How do you know if your gel base is not curing properly?
If you want to know if your gel base coat is not curing properly, there are a few signs to look for:
- The base coat will be tacky to the touch after the stated cure time
- The base coat will not be as shiny as it should be
- The base coat may start to crack or peel off shortly after being applied
Why is your gel base coat not curing properly?
There are several reasons why your gel base coat is not curing properly.
Here are a few:
Your UV or LED lamp is not working properly
If your gel base coat is not curing properly, your UV or LED lamp is probably not working correctly. Check the bulb to make sure it’s not loose in the socket and that the connections are secure.
You should also make sure that the bulb is good and that there are no gaps between the bulb and the socket. And if you have a timer on your lamp, check to see if you’ve set it correctly.
SEE: Get Your Ultimate Professional Finish With the Best Nail Lamp
The base coat is old
Another possible reason is that the base coat has expired. If it’s been more than two years since you bought it, it might be time to get a new one.
You applied the gel base coat too thickly
If the gel base coat is too thick, it will not cure properly. You should thin down your base coat with water or alcohol before applying them.
The temperature in your home is too cold
Another possibility is that the temperature in your home is too cold. Most gel base coats don’t cure properly in cold temperatures, so if your nails are feeling chilly, that could be the problem.
You didn’t apply enough gel base coat
If neither of the above seems to be the issue, then it’s possible that you didn’t apply enough gel base coat to your nails. It should go on fairly thick (but not too thick), so if it looks like you missed a spot, go back and add more.
SEE: What Goes First, Nail Primer Or Dehydrator?
FAQs
Are base coats important?
Yes, they are.
Base coats are an important part of any manicure or pedicure, as they help to create a smooth surface for your polish and prevent staining of your nails.
How do you dry a gel base coat quickly?
Use a UV lamp.
A UV lamp is a quick and easy way to dry your gel base coat. Simply apply the gel base coat to your nails and then hold your hand under the UV lamp for a few minutes. The UV light will cure the gel base coat, making it dry quickly and last longer.
Can you do two coats of base coat?
Yes, you can.
Doing two coats of base coat will help to make your manicure or pedicure last even longer and prevent any chips or cracks.
Should you wipe off your gel base coat after curing?
No, shouldn’t.
When you wipe off your gel base coat after curing, you’re removing part of the base coat too. This can cause your manicure to lose its shine and protection much sooner than if you had left the gel base coat intact.
So next time you get a gel manicure, resist the urge to wipe off that gel base coat—your manicure will thank you.
Can you skip a base coat?
Yes, you can.
You can skip a base coat if you’re using a high-quality nail polish that has a smooth, shiny finish. However, it’s always best to consult with a professional manicurist to get their opinion on whether you should skip a base coat.
Conclusion
A gel base coat is supposed to be sticky because the stickiness helps it adhere to your nails.
If it wasn’t sticky, very little would adhere to your nails (and you’d also have a hard time putting on nail polish).
In the end, if you want your manicure or pedicure to last longer, you have to be willing to deal with the stickiness that comes with gel base coats.
Thanks for reading.
Visit Africana Fashion for more information on gel base coats.
