When you’re carefully applying gel nails, you might have noticed that after spending a lot of time under the curing light, your nails are still slightly sticky. This isn’t a mistake or something you did wrong—it’s actually completely normal. The inhibition layer, also known as the sticky layer, is present on your nails after curing, and it can feel a bit tacky to the touch. This happens due to the oxygen interacting with the gel as it cures, leaving behind this layer that hasn’t yet been removed.
Many people find themselves asking the same questions about why this tacky layer appears, especially with dark colored gel. It’s important to remember that it’s an ordinary part of the gel products you’re using, and it won’t stay there forever. In fact, Mylee has products designed to help you easily get rid of it. Once you’ve followed the recommended time for curing, your nails should be fully cured, and the tackiness can be wiped away.
I’ve spent countless hours applying gel polish and have often wondered about this phenomenon. But trust me, as long as you follow each step carefully and patiently, there’s nothing to worry about. The season for dark nails might bring these questions to light, but once you know what’s happening, you’ll see that it’s just a part of the process!
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Why Is Your Gel Tacky After Curing?
To avoid sticky gel polish after curing, make sure to follow the recommended time for curing, and if the layer still feels tacky, use a No Wipe Top Coat. This top coat eliminates the need to wipe off the sticky layer and provides a flawless, long-lasting finish.
Why is Your Gel Polish Sticky?
If you’ve noticed that your gel polish is sticky even after you’ve followed the recommended time and cured it under the UV light or LED light, don’t worry—it’s completely normal. The tacky layer left behind after curing is the result of under-curing, which means that not all of the gel has been fully set. This can happen due to several factors, such as the wattage and lamp compatibility not being ideal, or the light type not matching the polish setting. Some gel formulas are more prone to leaving this layer, especially if they don’t have a non wipe formula. This thin, uncured gel leftover is completely safe and will eventually be removed.
You’ll usually find the tacky layer on the top coat as well. It’s there to help the next layer adhere properly, so don’t panic. If you’re doing nail art or filing, you may want to wipe it off, but it’s not necessary unless you’re working on a more detailed design. The inhibition layer will eventually cure once you apply your next top coat, which helps cover and seal it, preventing further exposure to oxygen and ensuring everything sets properly. Make sure your lamp is strong enough to handle the curing process so that the layers cure fully without any issues like shrinking or fuzz from uncured gel.
Have I Under-Cured My Polish?
If your gel polish feels sticky even after curing, there’s a chance that it has been under-cured. This happens when the UV lamp or LED lamp wasn’t used for the full length of the recommended time, preventing the gel from properly setting. The light might not have been strong enough or didn’t penetrate through the layers fully, leading to issues like shrivels, crinkles, or shrinkage. The result is a slightly tacky surface that can cause smudging or even peeling off. Always ensure your gel polish has been properly cured to avoid these problems, and check for any gooey or dent marks, which may indicate that the polish hasn’t hardened enough.
How to Get Rid of Sticky Residue from Gel Polish?
To get rid of the stickiness left on your nails after applying gel polish, you can use a solution designed to remove the tacky layer from your cured polish. Simply take a lint-free wipe, saturate it with the solution, and swipe it over your nails, making sure to cover all areas of the nail, including the edges and cuticles. This will help you remove the residue and give your nails a clean finish, leaving them looking great after removal.
Is It Necessary to Remove the Sticky Layer from Every Gel Coat?
No, it’s not necessary to remove the sticky layer from every gel polish coat. The formula is designed to be sticky to help the layers stick together, creating a longer-lasting mani. If you remove it, the layers may not bond properly and could peel off sooner than expected.
Is a Top Coat Gel Polish Necessary?
Yes, a top coat is essential for a long-lasting gel mani. It acts as a protective layer, shielding the colour from damage and wear caused by everyday life. Without it, your gel polish can chip, peel off, or even be laid bare to bumps. Applying the top coat also helps extend its life, giving you a flawless finish that can last up to 3 weeks.
Switch to a No-Wipe Top Coat for Easy Finishing
For a quick and easy finishing without the need to wipe away the sticky residue, switch to a No Wipe Top Coat. It works just like a regular top coat, but saves you the extra step of wiping off the layer after curing. Apply it for 60 seconds under an LED lamp or 120 seconds under a UV lamp to get a smooth, shiny finish that suits every nail look, from glitter flakes to iridescent finishes.
How Many Layers of Top Coat Should You Apply?
You can apply 1 layer of top coat, but using 2 layers or even 3 layers can provide extra protection and shine for your mani, just make sure to cure each layer for the recommended time to prevent issues like bubbling or peeling. Passionate about nail art? Check out our exclusive nail art-themed t-shirts and express your creativity in style!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my gel polish still sticky after curing?
The sticky layer left on your gel nails after curing is completely normal. It’s called the inhibition layer, which forms when oxygen interacts with the gel. This layer is there to help the next layer adhere properly, and it will eventually be removed once you apply the next top coat.
Do I need to remove the sticky layer from every coat of gel polish?
No, it’s not necessary to remove the sticky layer from every coat. The formula is designed to help the layers stick together, creating a longer-lasting mani. Removing it may cause the layers to peel off sooner than expected.
How can I get rid of the sticky residue from my gel polish?
To remove the sticky residue, use a solution with a lint-free wipe and gently swipe it over your nails. This will help remove the tacky layer and give your nails a clean finish, leaving them looking polished and flawless.