Nail strips work by using an adhesive to attach to your nails.
How Adhesive Nail Strips Adhere to Your Nails
Here's a breakdown of how nail strips work:
- Adhesive Application: Gel nail strips come with an adhesive backing. This adhesive is designed to stick to the surface of the nail.
- Clean and Dry Nails: For the adhesive to work effectively, your nails must be clean and dry before application. Oils, dirt, or moisture can hinder the bond between the adhesive and your nail.
- Base Coat (Optional): Applying a base coat before the nail strip can enhance adhesion. Nails naturally produce oils, which can negatively affect how well the adhesive sticks and how long it lasts. A base coat helps the sealant adhere better.
- Pressing and Smoothing: Once the strip is correctly positioned on the nail, it's pressed firmly down. Smoothing out any air bubbles also ensures a good, even contact with the nail surface.
- Curing (for gel strips): Some gel nail strips require curing under a UV or LED light to harden and finalize the adhesive bond. This step is essential for the long-lasting hold.
Key Factors for Successful Nail Strip Application
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Clean Nails | Remove all traces of nail polish, oils, dirt, and debris from your nails. |
| Dry Nails | Ensure that nails are completely dry before applying strips. |
| Base Coat | Applying a base coat can improve adhesion and longevity, particularly for those with oily nails. |
| Proper Smoothing | Smooth out any air bubbles after applying the strip. |
| Curing | If using gel strips, use a UV or LED light to cure the strips according to the manufacturer's instructions. |
| Avoid Water | Try to avoid water contact immediately after application to let the adhesive settle and set properly. |
By ensuring these steps are followed, the adhesive on the nail strips can successfully create a strong bond to the nail, providing a durable and long-lasting manicure.
