How To Remove Long-lasting Gel Coat Correctly?

“After improper removal of the persistent coating, my nails deteriorated a lot: they became brittle, uneven, constantly exfoliate, and most importantly, no varnish (even medicinal) holds on to them at all. What to do about it? How to strengthen the nail plate, with what can now be used to cover the nails to hide their terrible appearance? And in general, please explain how the resistant coating should be removed correctly: by an apparatus or by hand?"

Olga, 26

Expert's answer:

In fact, there are two ways to remove a permanent coating - hardware and using a special liquid. I will say right away that hardware does not mean bad at all. Its advantage is that it only removes the top layer and leaves the base on the nail plate. And the base is a blanket that does not damage the nail further. Thus, with proper hardware removal of the resistant coating, the "personal boundaries" of the nail plate are not violated. It is important that the technician is attentive and does not act too actively, since maintaining the protective layer is a matter of correct pressure during the procedure. Damage can only come from the master, not from the apparatus. I believe that the apparatus is a more gentle option, and the liquid is more aggressive (since the liquid dissolves not only the coating, but also affects the nail plate,triggering unnecessary chemical reactions).

It must be clearly understood that a permanent coating is not harmful in itself. If you remove it on time and delicately, then nothing terrible will happen. Moreover, a resistant coating protects the nail plate from external influences - from mechanical damage, water, dry air, temperature extremes. But in order to avoid problems with the nails in the future, it is important to follow simple rules. One of them is not to wear a long-lasting coating for more than two weeks. The second is not to take it off yourself, but to go to the salon to see a specialist. Third, do not apply the coating under the cuticle itself (in the area of the growth hole) so that the nail continues to breathe.

If you follow such simple instructions, there should be no problems. Especially if you regularly take care of your nails and cuticles using oil or cosmetic creams. In addition, now there are good remedies and even preparations created specifically for nail restoration. This is how OPI recently introduced a 3-Step Gel Break System to restore strength to nails damaged by improper removal of the gel coat. It consists of a healing base, color (also with a healing effect) and an upper glossy finish. After a week of use, improvements are already noticeable, and what is nice - all this time the nails look neat and well-groomed.

In addition, if after improper removal of the persistent coating, troubles began with the nail plate, then I highly recommend “treating” it with the help of products containing biotin. Another good solution is the American IBX System, which penetrates the nail plate to a depth of 56 layers (in total, the nail plate has 120 layers). By the way, the IBX System can be applied under a permanent coat and will protect your nails while you enjoy the color.

Photo: Getty Images, press archives