What is a primer and when is it needed

If you’re interested in nails, you’ve undoubtedly heard of primers, but are you truly aware of their functions? Despite being an essential product for nail care, primers are frequently misinterpreted. Why is this step so crucial, though? Some people swear by it, while others skip it.

Between your natural nails and the products you apply, such as gel or acrylics, a primer serves as a bonding agent. It keeps lifting and chipping problems at bay and improves the adhesion and longevity of the polish or extension. Your manicure might not hold up as well without it, which could cause frustration and waste time.

However, when is the right time to apply a primer? It’s not always required for all kinds of manicures. Knowing when to apply a primer can have a significant impact on your nails’ appearance and durability. We’ll go over the fundamentals of nail primers in this post and advise you on when to use them.

What is a primer?	When is it needed?
A primer is a base coat that helps polish adhere better to the nail.	It is needed when you want your manicure or pedicure to last longer and prevent chipping.
Primers can also protect the nail from stains and damage.	They are especially important when using gel or acrylic products.

Properties and characteristics

A liquid product called primer, derived from the English word prime, is used to prepare nails for coating. The product lengthens the wear period and enhances the decorative material’s adherence to the nail by degreasing and drying the nail plate.

Primers’ purposes:

• Drying;
• Cleansing – removes particles of sebum that may remain after using the degreaser;
• Protection of the nail from the development of pathogenic microorganisms and infectious bacteria on its surface;
• Increasing adhesion between the natural nail and the coating material.

The product works on the basis of adhering surfaces with disparate densities, such as the base and the nail. It functions essentially like double-sided tape because it has adhesive on both sides, or gluing.

Primer and bond

The primer’s transformation as the nail industry grows is the reason for the confusion surrounding the names:

1. Initially, when the gel system first appeared, manufacturers presented a gel product for preparing the nail plate for applying the base. The primer had a dense texture and required drying in a UV lamp.
2. Over time, the primer was improved to a liquid so as not to give the coating extra thickness. The new product was called bond. The new formula quickly took root in the masters" offices, but not all manufacturers switched to the new name, leaving the familiar "primer" for many, which in fact is no longer a primer in the usual sense.

Although primer, ultrabond, and bond have the same properties, they can now be found in stores.

In order to resolve this matter definitively and organize the nomenclature, let’s examine three compositions: Ultrabond Kodi, an acid-free primer, and Bonder from the Ingarden brand.

Ingarden Bonder	Kodi, Ultrabonder	Yoko, Primer
Ethyl acetate

Methyl acrylate (isopropylidenediphenyl bisoxyhydropropyl)

As you can see, there are only a few minor variations in the preparations’ compositions, such as the addition of safer or less safe additives. Remember that primer, bond, and ultrabond are all synonymous when selecting a primer.

Types

There are two primary categories of primers based on composition:

• acidic;
• acid-free.

Acidic

Methacrylic acid is the building block of the acid primer. Although the aggressive component of this primer has a negative effect on the nail plate, it has good adhesive properties.

During the extension process, an acidic composition is applied to the natural nail to raise its pH level to that of the extended nail. It lifts its scales upon application to the nail plate. Following polymerization, the resulting cavities are filled with gel and fused to the nail. Common issues following the use of an acid primer include:

• thinning of the nail plate;
• minor burns when in contact with skin
• allergic reaction and dermatitis.

Methacrylic acid also imparts a distinct chemical smell to the primer.

For the master, inhaling methacrylate vapors continuously can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including:

• headache;
• drowsiness;
• vision and hearing disorders;
• exacerbation of chronic diseases, such as gastritis.

Although the main ingredients in primers vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, they typically consist of:

• methacrylic acid;
• butyl acetate – a solvent of natural origin, ensuring the drying of the product due to its evaporation. It is a relatively safe component, but in some cases it causes irritation;
• butyl methacrylate – another adhesive substance. Relatively safe, but sometimes provokes allergies.
• ethanol – solvent and antiseptic. When it gets on the skin, it dries out, sometimes causes allergic reactions.

Since methacrylic is thought to be the most hazardous and aggressive ingredient in acid primer, some manufacturers have chosen to discontinue using it. Acid-free primers looked like this.

Acid-free

Methacrylic primer can be substituted with acid-free primer. With the product, you can increase coating layer adhesion to the nail without endangering the nails or surrounding skin.

Utilized when working with gels and polishes. Acid-free primers are labeled as either "acid free" or "non acid." The manufacturer determines the composition, so let’s examine the most typical ingredients:

• ethyl acetate – a solvent of synthetic origin. Used to ensure drying of the product;
• butyl acetate – solvent;
• isopropyl – solvent and degreaser.

With acid-free primer, the nail’s natural pH is temporarily adjusted to more closely resemble the pH of the material being applied. The composition stops functioning and the pH returns to its initial state a few minutes after application.

The drying properties indicate which acid-free primers are:

• without a sticky layer. Dry quickly – 30-40 sec;
• with a sticky layer. Dry a little longer – about 2-3 minutes, while leaving a slight stickiness that improves adhesion. No need to remove the stickiness.

Products that don’t have a sticky layer are typically found on the shelves. Even so, its existence won’t have an impact on the application technology.

Eric Montgomery, a chemist for the well-known Opi brand, guarantees that following the usage guidelines is the only way to minimize the primer’s risk and minimize the effects of using it.

Use rules

Applying a primer:

• Before buying, study the label to find out what materials Primer is suitable for. Some means of this category are provided exclusively for gels or only for acrylic;
• do not apply more than 2 layers. Each new layer of the product “presses” the harmful components of the applied composition into the nail plate, which do not evaporate and are not washed out of the nail, and can also be absorbed into the nail bed and enter the bloodstream;
• If you are a master, and the client complains of burning in the nail or perioline region, be sure to wash the plot of running water. Perhaps this is due to increased sensitivity. Ignoring this fact can provoke a burn;
• Another advice for masters – use gloves and do not neglect advice to put on glasses for the duration of work with a primer. The vapors of the product can damage the nasopharynx and eyes, especially with constant use;
• do not use a primer if the coating on the nails lasts 2-3 weeks without it, especially if you do not do a correction, but apply a new coating. After 3 weeks, the nail will grow back and the coating will have to be redone and there is no need to injure the plate with chemicals once again;
• apply the product carefully and in a thin layer to avoid getting on the skin. Using a primer is the very case when more does not mean better.

The place of a primer in the manicure procedure

Because the store assortment offers many "preparatory" products in addition to the primer, it is often unclear where each one should be placed.

During the manicure process, the following product application is offered:

1. Degreaser – liquid for removing the formed sebum and file residues from the nails;
2. Dehydrator – liquid for removing excess moisture from the surface of the nail;
3. Primer – a degreaser with drying and adhesive properties;
4. Bonder or ultrabonder – a gel product for strong adhesion of a natural nail with an extended or decorative coating, and also protects the nail plate from the effects of harmful components of gel polish and base. Requires drying in a lamp;
5. Base – base coat;

While the preparatory products are recommended for problematic and wet nails to prevent peeling, they do not have to be used in their entirety. In other situations, just the degreaser remains after excluding the primer, bonder, and dehydrator.

Frequently asked questions

Does the primer need to be dried under a lamp?

No, the product takes between 30 and 120 seconds to dry in the open.

With an acid base, what primer should I use?

Since acid base coats have good adhesion on their own, primer usage is theoretically not required. Use a kinder, acid-free product if the decorative coating does not wear well without a primer.

Can a primer and base from separate manufacturers be combined?

Products from different manufacturers can be combined, even though the manufacturers state that coating materials must come from the same business. However, empirical evidence is required to establish the compatibility of individual brands.

Does the nail need to be cleaned before primer is applied?

The nail is first cleaned with a degreaser-dehydrator to get rid of any leftover sebum and tiny dust particles from filing it, and then a primer is applied.

The nails may have been treated with a bonder instead of a primer. In between 30 and 120 seconds, the primer dries without further exposure. Examine the bottle to see if there is a sticky layer if it says primer.

The best acid primers

We will showcase the best acidic liquids because some masters and their clients prefer them despite the composition’s aggression.

Rio Profi

A methacrylic acid-containing product is intended to provide superior nail degreasing prior to nail extension surgery. It is advised to apply the product following a liquid degreasing and buffing of the nail plate.

• Drying time in the open air is 2-3 minutes.
• Suitable for working with acrylic and gel systems.

RuNail, Strong

For those who frequently experience peeling of the coating and/or have "wet" nails, a product with an improved formula is advised.

Ideal for prepping the nail before using any known products, such as acrylics, gel polishes, and gels. The product has a mild chemical odor, even though methacrylic acid is an ingredient.

Kinetics

An acid primer is available from a Latvian brand to stop peeling. utilized when working with acrylics and gels. Leaves a slight stickiness after drying that is not necessary to remove. It takes 60 seconds to dry.

TNL

Fills in all of the gaps and ridges, leaving the nail flawlessly even and smooth, which makes the base layer’s job easier. It takes three minutes from application to full drying.

Kodi

Expert acid primer to enhance the coating’s adherence to the nail. Drys for one to two minutes outside. bears a definite smell. The fused hair brush is the only drawback.

Irisk, Primer for acrylic

Only appropriate for use with acrylic systems. when working with gels and gel polishes, does not produce the desired effect. Dries in 30 to 40 seconds, making the surface perfect for nail art.

Best acid-free primers

Rio Profi

An all-purpose, acid-free product that can be used with gel polishes, single-phase polishes, and acrylic coatings. Total drying time: two to three minutes. has a distinct scent that isn’t overly strong.

Grattol

A universal product aids in degreasing and enhancing adhesion on the nail plate. In 60 seconds, it dries. doesn’t smell particularly strong.

CND NailPrime

A soft composition shows good adhesion while also reducing the likelihood of allergies. used when working with acrylic, gel polishes, and gels.

UNO LUX

Enhances the nail’s adherence to gel, acrylic, or gel polish without packing the nail plate with too many toxic ingredients. Ideal for ladies who frequently peel off their nail polish and exfoliate their nails.

ORLY, GelFx

The product contains vitamins for nail care along with ingredients to promote adhesion. 30 seconds is all it takes for the surface to dry perfectly smooth. The composition should only be applied to the free edge and side rollers—areas that could pose issues, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Patrisa nail, Primer pencil

By using a pencil-shaped primer, you can apply it precisely and prevent the bottle from overturning. Ideal for use with gel polishes and gel systems.

In a manicure procedure, using a primer is by no means required. Even though there are reasonably safe products available, you shouldn’t damage the nail plate again. Well, pick acid-free products and don’t overlook safety measures if the polish on your nails peels off after a few days. Are you a primer user? Please let us know which brand you prefer in the comments.

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A primer is a basic component of both manicures and pedicures that prepares your nails for long-lasting polish. It prevents chipping and lifting by strengthening the bond between your natural nails and any applied products, such as gel or acrylics. A primer is an essential step you shouldn’t omit, whether you’re doing a basic at-home manicure or a professional pedicure. It guarantees a smooth and long-lasting finish.

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Comprehending the function of a primer in nail maintenance is imperative to attain durable and impeccable manicures and pedicures. In order to keep your nails looking fantastic and chip-free for longer, a primer serves as a bonding agent between the natural nail and the polish or gel.

Using a primer can make a big difference, whether you’re dealing with oily nail beds, lifting your nails frequently, or you just want to make sure your nail art lasts. Although it’s a straightforward step, nail care routines should include it as it can help avoid frustration in the future.

Using a primer during your manicure or pedicure can improve the general condition and longevity of your nails. It’s one of those little things that adds up over time to help you keep salon-quality, elegant nails at home or at home.

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