Gel-X is one of the most popular manicure styles available today. Providing the appearance of acrylics with less damage and easier removal, these Instagram- and Tik-Tok-famous nail extensions are becoming a go-to for people needing to accommodate a wide variety of lifestyles and aesthetics. But what exactly are Gel-X nails? Keep reading — here’s everything you need to know about Gel-X nails and why they’re suddenly everywhere you scroll.

What Are Gel-X Nails?

Gel-X nails are nail extensions that combine the flexibility of soft gel polish with the length and longevity of acrylics. Gel-X is a soft extension, meaning that it remains flexible after application and is not stiff, rigid, or plastic-y like acrylics, press-on nails, and other extension methods.

In fact, Gel-X nails are created using the same soft gel polish that you would use for a typical gel manicure. This means that they offer the same benefits — such as easy at-home removal and several weeks of longevity — with the additional benefit of artificially lengthened nails.

How Are Gel-X Nails Applied?

When you visit a Gel-X nail salon, they’ll be able to complete your manicure in just a few easy steps. First, they’ll prep your nails the way they normally would for a manicure and apply a layer of pH bonder. This bonder dehydrates your nail plate, removing any oil or residue that could affect the application or reduce the longevity of your manicure.

Then, they’ll apply the acid-free gel primer, which helps the Gel-X nail better adhere to your nature nail. Once the primer has been applied, they’ll add the soft gel adhesive onto your natural nail, allowing it to cure for 30 seconds in an LED lamp. 

Once these steps have been completed, it’s time to secure the extensions. A small amount of soft gel will be applied to the underside of the Gel-X tip, which will then be applied onto the natural nail at a 45-degree angle. Once the extension tip is applied and secured into place, your nails will be cured in an LED lamp once more, and you’re ready to go.

How Long Does a Gel-X Manicure Last?

Once your Gel-X manicure is completed, you can enjoy your new nail extensions for up to four weeks without any chipping or raised edges. This makes it ideal for vacations, special events, or any other occasion where you need your nails to look their absolute best for more than a day.

If you use regular nail polish to color your Gel-X extensions — rather than gel polish — you can repaint your nails as often as you’d like. You can also come back into your local Gel-X nail salon for a fill, where your technician will cut and shape your extensions as they grow out.

What Are the Benefits of Gel X Nails?

There are so many manicure options on the market, all with their own unique benefits, so what makes Gel-X the best choice?

Gel-X manicures are considered a safe alternative to acrylic nails when applied by a trained and certified technician. The materials used in the extensions are free from harmful chemicals and won’t damage the natural nail, so you can enjoy the same elongated nail look as acrylics with worry and potential damage to your body.

Gel-X nails also offer the greatest longevity and durability with the least maintenance. They provide the look of long, healthy nails in the way acrylics do, but with a flexible texture that gives them a much more natural look and feel. They’re thin and lightweight, and they can be easily cut and shaped at home or by a Gel-X nail salon for a one-of-a-kind look. Whether you want something over-the-top and show-stopping or natural yet enhanced, Gel-X nails can suit everyone’s taste and style.

If you want to try out the latest innovation in spa manicure nail extensions, Newport Nails has knowledgeable and certified technicians that can make all of your mani-pedi visions come to life. Contact us online or visit us at The Landing or one of our other convenient locations today for a 5-star Gel-X nail salon experience you’ll love.