How to choose the right gel polish: we analyze all its types and top brands

A beautiful manicure or pedicure can be achieved with the correct gel polish selection. With so many options available, it’s critical to comprehend the various varieties and the distinctive qualities of each brand. You can discover the ideal gel polish for your needs and style by using this guide to help you navigate the wide world of gel polishes.

Gel polishes provide a range of options that can improve the look of your nails, from vivid colors to gorgeous finishes. In order to help you make an informed choice, we’ll break down the various varieties of gel polish, including UV, LED, and hybrid formulas. We’ll also highlight a few of the leading brands on the market that are renowned for their dependability and quality.

Whether you’re a fan of nail art or simply want a durable finish, knowing the different kinds and brands of gel polish will help you get the desired look. Let’s get started and discover how to choose the ideal gel polish for your tastes and way of life!

Type of Gel Polish	Top Brands
Classic Gel Polish	Gelish, OPI, Essie
UV Gel Polish	Shellac, Gelish, CND
LED Gel Polish	IBD, DND, Kiara Sky
Soak-Off Gel Polish	LeChat, Gelish, OPI
Builder Gel	Young Nails, Akzentz, NSI

What is gel polish

Polymer gel and varnish are combined to create gel polish, which solidifies in a lamp’s UV light rather than the open air. We refer to this process as polymerization.

Certain gel polishes have the ability to polymerize under both types of radiation and to "dry" in UF or LED lamps. The corresponding marking on the product bottle serves as an indicator of this.

For UF gel polish to dry, you will need a 36 W lamp. It takes two minutes to dry. It only takes 30 seconds and a 24 W LED lamp to dry varnish with an LED marking. The gel polish dries more quickly under strong lighting. It’s important to consider the texture as well. Gel polish that is dense dries a little longer.

Choosing the correct gel polish is crucial to getting a perfect manicure or pedicure. In addition to highlighting premium brands that stand out for their performance and quality, this article will examine the various varieties of gel polish that are available, ranging from traditional to cutting-edge formulas. You’ll be better able to choose the ideal gel polish for your needs and style by being aware of these options, which will guarantee that your nails look gorgeous and last longer.

Single-, two-, three-phase gel polishes

Gel polishes come in single, two, and three phases. This kind of labeling shows how many products the varnish must be used with in order to produce a long-lasting, resilient coating.

• Single-phase gel polish – contains a base, gel polish and top at the same time. Therefore, additional purchase of these products is not required. To apply single-phase gel polish, it is enough to do a manicure, degrease the nail plate, cover it with an acid-free primer and then varnish with subsequent polymerization in a lamp. The varnish is applied in two layers, and after drying the last one, the dispersion is removed with a cleanser (stickiness). These varnishes soak off faster and are removed after the end of the wearing period. They are usually recommended for pedicures.

One benefit of this type of varnish is that it can expedite the application and drying process, which is beneficial for busy businesses.

One drawback is that it is not as durable as two- or three-phase systems. By using acrylic powder to reinforce the initial layer and adding two more layers afterwards, this disadvantage can be completely removed. To extend wear time, single-phase gel polish can be combined with a base and top, much like a three-phase one. Popular low-cost brands for novices are Bluesky and TNL.

• Two-phase gel polish – combines a base and varnish, or varnish with a top, both options for combining are found. Depending on the composition of the components, they are combined either with a top or with a base. Two-phase gel polishes are less common on sale, since they have a lower coating durability compared to classic three-phase systems.
• Three-phase gel polish is a system of three separate components: base, varnish and top. Each is applied one after the other, providing a durable coating. This type of gel polish is the most popular and is presented in the widest range of all brands.

Types of gel polishes by visual effects and textures

For single-phase gel polishes, the texture of the coating can be either matte or glossy. This establishes the final finish layer in three-phase systems.

Favored gel polishes based on effects:

Cat"s eye. Coating with small shiny metal particles that are collected with a magnetic stick into a long glare or line resembling a cat"s eye.

Varnishes with glitter. Foil glitter of varying degrees of grinding make it possible to create a dense shimmering layer. It must be well distributed and sealed with a top to avoid chips.

Thermal varnishes or gel polishes with a thermal effect. Change color depending on the ambient temperature. The most incredible combinations. For example: pink with blue, red with brown, green with blue. Two colors can be displayed on the nail at the same time: one on the plate and the second on the tip, if you put your hand in water or your fingertips freeze in the cold.

Craquelure. This coating has a cracking effect, like the earth in the desert. Usually applied to a base coat that shines through after the top coat cracks. A combination of contrasting base coat and background looks good.

Chameleons. Brilliant iridescent colors and the effect are mesmerizing. Such polishes are not presented in all lines. A similar effect can be achieved with the help of rubbing. About examples of using rubbing with step-by-step instructions and ideas.

Overview of popular brands

The following criteria help masters make their gel polish selections:

• Combination of price and quality
• Consistency
• Pigmentation
• Brush shape and length
• Reviews
• Palette
• Ease of purchase and delivery

Let’s look at the most well-known high-end and low-cost brands, their features, and suggestions for which brands a beginner or someone using the products at home should start adding to their collection.

While the varnish shouldn’t be overly thick, it also shouldn’t spread under the rollers and cuticle right away. Furthermore, the varnish shouldn’t instantly flow back into the jar or gather on the brush in a big drop.

Tartiso

It has a medium consistency, which is essential for the master, and a long, flat brush that is useful for processing the area close to the side rollers and cuticle. Because the varnish is highly pigmented, it is best to apply two thin layers rather than one thick one right away. A low-cost option for both personal and professional use. Professional masters have great affection for this brand. Because of their enormous popularity, fakes are frequently present.

Certain shades may wrinkle slightly under the lamp; therefore, you should ensure that it has enough power and that the varnish is not applied excessively thickly.

Bliss

An affordable brand that offers excellent coverage. Gel polishes apply uniformly and have good pigmentation. Not less good than high-priced brands. The palette will also surprise experts and novices alike.

Formula Profi

Possesses a liquid texture. The line has a lot of pastel colors with a hint of white. purely for use with LED lamps. A compact yet practical brush. It is advised to apply in two layers, particularly for light colors. somewhat pricey brand.

TNL

Well-liked gel polishes with a medium price range. possess a liquid consistency and unsaturated color. even in dark tones, two to three layers of application are needed. A compact yet practical brush.

Nail Best

With the new one, you can apply more shades in a single layer thanks to the varnishes’ increased pigmentation.

The classic line of varnishes has medium texture, good lay down, and short brush legs. There will be gaps visible after the first application stage, so you will need to do two.

The base color of glittery shade variants matches the color of the glitter particles.

The composition in the new line smells like candy, but the brush is not very convenient—it is narrow. Extremely high pigmentation and a uniform medium texture define this line. It will only take one layer to achieve a uniform, high-quality coating.

Naomi

American-made product. medium-price range. High-grade varnishes with a consistent, thick texture. It only takes two layers. One of the earliest brands to hit the professional market was this one. The palette is striking, and the value for money offered by the combination of price and quality will allow one to choose a good assortment of varnishes for novices.

Sakura

It has a medium texture and applies well in two layers. features a medium-length, flat brush that is convenient. Option for a budget starting at 230 rubles. You can select a matte, base, or top finish in this line.

Bluesky

This gel polish is a favorite among pros and novices alike due to its extensive color selection of over 500 shades, reasonable price point starting at 200 rubles, and good value for money. The lines include opaque and densely homogeneous coatings that need to be applied in two or three layers. For masters with various client flows, there are eight and ten milliliter bottles to select from. The varnish applies evenly and has good pigmentation in traditional shades.

Lianail

A well-known brand in the moderate price range. One bottle costs 350 rubles for 10 milliliters. Its texture is dense, and the pigmentation is excellent. Applyable in a single layer. Many of the shades in the brand’s lines have a "cat’s eye" effect.

Gel polish does not run and can be painted right under the cuticle. The only negative aspect of this varnish is that it needs to be filed and does not dissolve well in liquid.

Canni

A low-cost brand available on Aliexpress for 160 rubles. A range of Peacock shellacs with glittering flakes priced at 490 rubles is offered by the same company. Each varnish comes in a 7.3 ml bottle.

The brand’s lightest hues are applied consistently, devoid of any bald patches or stripes. Good coverage can be achieved with just two layers. You can get away with one for saturated tones.

Cons: Because varnishes can flow under the cuticle and have a rather liquid texture, they are not very practical for beginners. Another drawback is that traditional varnishes are less flexible and break more easily because they lack a sticky layer. They unquestionably require a sticky layer on top. Dry under LED and UF lights. Self-adjusting. Liquid can be used to remove it easily.

Blinq

A low-cost brand ideal for novice craftsmen or home use. Varnishes have a thick, viscous texture and are highly pigmented. avoids dripping onto the cuticle. applied in two strata. It is preferable to stretch well and apply in thin layers. A thick application could cause bubbles to appear.

CND Shellac

The original long-lasting coating, Shellac gel polish, was introduced by the CND brand. The term "shellac," which has gained widespread usage, is frequently used to describe any contemporary gel polish. The polish lays down nicely and has a dense texture. There are a lot of imitations available in various price ranges. On Aliexpress, you can also purchase CND Shellac. Prices start at 200 rubles.

Luxio

This brand is produced by Accent, a Canadian company. an enormous spectrum of colors with rich pigmentation. This gel is completely soluble rather than being a hybrid. Even when applied very densely, it never wrinkles. Do not flow onto the cuticle; texture is thick.

Atica

High pigmentation and excellent shade quality characterize this American brand. One layer of polish can be applied. Not flowing, medium consistency; good for novices.

Dance legend

Russian company. A variety of varnish lines with various effects are displayed. Varnishes are good for designs as well as uniform coating because of their dense texture. Volume: 6.5 to 15 milliliters. Price range: 380–600 rubles.

Kodi

A well-known brand appropriate for novices and experts alike. The textures of varnishes are dense and have good pigmentation. Price: 330 rubles for 8 milliliters. For a starter set of gel polishes, this is a win-win situation. They complement other brands’ tops and finishes nicely. Watch out for impersonators.

Uno

Chinese brand that is becoming well-known. able to be purchased on AliExpress. possesses a nice scent. Varnishes are medium-textured and can be applied in a single layer. Appropriate for novices. Wide palette, there are options for hypoallergenic coatings.

Which gel polish is better

Affordable yet premium brands like Bliss, Naomi, Bluesky, TNL, Tartissa, Kanni, and RuNail are good options for novices. They are evenly textured, have good pigmentation, and resist curling under the cuticle and rollers.

Using these stamps will enable you to quickly select a quality selection of shades with comparatively little out-of-pocket expenditure in order to eventually add additional brands to the assortment.

Based on reviews, masters-profiles appear to have worked with Kodi, Tartiso, Bluesky, Kanni, and Naomi among other brands. Master artisans have extensive experience selecting coating textures that complement various design styles.

For instance, brands like Kodi, Bluesky, TNL, Luxio, and CND Shellac work well for creating a cat’s eye effect. Atica, Tartiso, Runail, and Formula Profi are some of the brands that offer extremely lovely sparkling coatings. A dense, homogeneous background on the substrate is crucial for the jacket. For this, camouflage base brands from Dance Legend, Formula Profi, Lianail, and Kodi are used.

Beginners frequently inquire as to which varnish—Bluesky, TNL, or Canni—is superior. These are some of the most popular low-cost brands, after all. The coating and pigment densities are different. Though they have a liquid texture that is more difficult for beginners to master at first, Canni and TNL have good pigmentation. Bluesky features a more substantial texture and excellent pigment in traditional, non-transparent tones. With more than 500 tones available, Bluesky also boasts an extensive color palette.

Before purchasing, it’s crucial to test each varnish on a natural nail or tip to see how it applies and how to use it going forward. Likewise, you should consider that different shades may present themselves in different ways.

Which gel polish is better from Aliexpress

Gel polish brands and shades for home and professional use can be selected from an extensive global trading platform at reasonable prices. The top three brands on Aliexpress in terms of orders, positive customer feedback, and customer ratings. If you have never placed an order with AliExpress, take note of these:

CND Shellac, Rosalind, Azure Beauty, Perfect Summer, QHC, Sapphire, Sexy Mix, and Reinbow Gel Polish are the ones that come after them. Each of them has received positive feedback regarding quality and a high user rating.

Hypoallergenic gel polishes

Due to the nail industry’s explosive growth over the past ten years, allergies to gel polishes have become a growing issue among customers. This is because, even in the absence of a severe allergy, the coating must be worn continuously. As a result, a cumulative effect may be seen months or years after the varnish is applied.

The vast quantity of fakes on the market is the second explanation. Using less expensive ingredients, dishonest producers mimic well-known brands of varnishes, attach labels, and pass them off as the real thing. Both novices and expert masters frequently fall for this bait in the absence of prior experience with the product and the inability to compare instantly as well as when ordering online. The pricing may only be marginally different from what the original, branded gel polish would have cost. Pay attention to:

• Labeling
• Palette
• Cost
• Texture
• Manufacturer
• Seller or trading platform
• Study reviews and recommendations on the website where you buy gel polish

How can you, or a client, safeguard themselves against a potential or current allergy to a long-lasting coating? Hypoallergenic gel polishes have been released by several brands. For both personal and business use, they are available for purchase online or in reputable physical stores alongside standard ones. A single jar is priced at 300 rubles.

Well-known companies whose product ranges contain hypoallergenic gel polishes:

For the varnishes from these brands, you can select a hypoallergenic base and top to reduce the possibility of allergies at any point during contact with the skin and nail plates.

For home use, it is preferable to use medium-textured varnishes with good pigmentation because they are easier to apply and produce an even coat even on your first independent painting attempts.

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The experience of getting a manicure and pedicure can be greatly improved by selecting the correct gel polish. Because there are so many varieties and brands to choose from, it’s critical to take application ease, finish, and durability into account. Investigate your options carefully because the correct gel polish can improve your nail art and give it a durable appearance.

Seek out brands that have a reputation for using high-quality ingredients and satisfying customers when assessing them. Leading brands make sure you can find the ideal shade for any occasion by providing a broad selection of colors and finishes. To help you narrow down your options, don’t be afraid to read reviews and get referrals from friends or nail technicians.

In the end, the gel polish that best suits your needs and style is the one that you should choose. Try out a variety of products to see which ones suit you the best. You can have gorgeous, salon-quality nails in the comfort of your own home with the correct gel polish.

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