Gel nails in Burwood.

What happens during your appointment

1. 01Shape and length agreed, then nails filed.
2. 02Cuticles gently pushed back and tidied; the surface is lightly buffed and cleansed so the gel bonds.
3. 03Base and builder gel for strength, cured under the lamp.
4. 04Colour or finish in thin layers, each cured, then a gel top coat.

How long it lasts and removal

Gel nails typically last about 4 weeks, and most clients rebook at around 4 weeks as the nail grows out.

If you’re arriving with gel on, mention it in your booking notes so Abby can allow time to soak it off properly.

Before you come in

• ✦Skip hand cream just before your appointment; oils can affect how gel bonds.
• ✦Bring a photo of the colour or finish you love if you have one.

Aftercare: Abby’s steps

• ✦Wear gloves for cleaning and washing up.
• ✦Don’t pick or peel gel: it strips layers of the nail plate. Book a soak-off instead.

Gel allergy and UV lamps

Gel colour, builder gel and the gel used with nail tips all contain (meth)acrylates. The British Association of Dermatologists has warned about a rise in (meth)acrylate allergy: it can develop when uncured product touches the skin, and the risk is higher with home kits, insufficient technician training, or a lamp that doesn’t match the gel. Abby keeps product off your skin and cuticles and cures each layer with the lamp made for the gel system she uses.

Nail lamps give off UV. Cancer Council Australia says nail lamps emit low levels of radiation for short exposure times, and suggests SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen on your hands 20 minutes beforehand, or fingerless gloves, if you’re concerned. You’re welcome to bring either.

If you’ve had itching, redness, swelling or nails lifting after gel before, tell Abby before you book; she may suggest seeing your GP about patch testing before having gel again.