What is a sticky layer and means for its removal

You may be familiar with the phrase "sticky layer" when it comes to nail care, particularly if you enjoy gel manicures. However, what precisely is this layer, and why is it so crucial to address it correctly? To put it simply, the sticky layer is a residue that appears on your nails’ surface after gel polish has been cured under a UV or LED lamp. Although it’s a normal part of the process, it must be eliminated to get a flawless, seamless finish.

Essentially, the inhibition layer, also referred to as the sticky layer, is a thin, sticky film that stays on your nails after the gel polish has dried. Although this film is required to ensure that the subsequent coat of polish adheres correctly, it is not very attractive and may detract from the polished appearance of your manicure. Fortunately, with the appropriate tools and methods, removing this layer is a simple process.

You’ll need some basic supplies to remove the sticky layer, like some rubbing alcohol or nail cleanser, and a lint-free wipe. To dissolve and remove the sticky residue, simply apply the cleanser to the wipe and gently rub it over your nails. This process is essential for giving your nails a polished, shiny appearance and extending the life of your gel polish by removing any bumps or imperfections.

The secret to getting a perfect manicure is comprehending and controlling the adhesive layer. These easy steps will not only make your nails look better, but they will also make your gel polish last longer and be of higher quality overall. Thus, the next time you treat yourself to a gel manicure, don’t forget to spend a little time taking care of this crucial detail for a flawless result!

What is a sticky layer

A sticky or inhibited layer

The term "dispersion" is most frequently found on the labels of products designed to remove sticky layers; however, from a chemical perspective, this usage of the term is not entirely accurate.

Dispersion, or the English term dispersion system. A mixture of substances that do not mix or undergo a chemical reaction with one another is referred to as disperses, scattering, or spreading.

A drop of gasoline falling into water is an example of a dispersion; in this case, there is no mixing of the two liquids; the oil product just stays on the surface.

The polymerized material shrinks as a by-product, resulting in the inhibited layer. A new section of the material is joined using stickiness, which is a component of the nail coating system.

Stickiness develops following polymerization:

• base;
• gel polish;
• some tops.

What a sticky layer does:

• ensuring the coupling between different coating materials – base and varnish, varnish and top;
• filling the air cavity between materials to prevent exfoliation.

Whether it is necessary to remove

Although the sticky layer serves to strengthen the manicure, there are times when it is preferable to remove the stickiness with the use of a clin into a specialized tool.

• if the base and color gel polish are from different manufacturers and there is no certainty that they will bond tightly to each other. In this case, experienced professionals recommend removing the stickiness and buffing the base with a 180-240 grit file to improve its adhesion to the gel polish;
• after applying and polymerizing the top coat. After the top coat has been dried in the lamp, the resulting stickiness must be removed with a cleanser. The only exception may be the absence of a sticky layer on the top coat.

If the top layer of stickiness is not eliminated:

• the nails will stick and collect lint, dust particles;
• the surface will not shine.

As a result, the general plan for managing the sticky layer during a manicure is as follows:

1. Apply the base coat and dry in the lamp. After drying, wipe the nails with a degreaser only if the base and color polish are from different brands, and you are not sure of their adhesion. In other cases, the stickiness remains on the nails;
2. Cover your nails with gel polish and dry them in a lamp. It is recommended to always leave the stickiness on the gel polish so that the adhesion with the top is maximum;
3. Apply the finishing coat to the dried polish and dry it in the lamp again. After polymerization, remove the sticky layer with a cleanser.

To avoid damaging the glossy shine, allow it to cool for one or two minutes before removing the stickiness from the top.

How to remove

Manicure product manufacturers provide special products called cleansers to remove the sticky layer.

Apart from its primary purpose, the liquid also has antiseptic properties. Frequently available in a 2-in-1 format, a cleanser and degreaser can also be used to treat nails prior to the sebum removal process. A dehydrator is a product that is made from the cleanser, but unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, it only has a drying effect and cannot be used to remove stickiness.

Apart from its primary purpose, the remover liquid can be employed for:

• easy processing of manicure tools. Alcohol in the composition will help to remove the most “weak” microbes and residues of contaminants from the surface. Despite this property, never use cleanser as the main disinfectant – the concentration of alcohol in it is not high, so the product is not suitable for full disinfection;
• processing the work surface within one client. You can wipe the manicure table with a cleanser while the client dries the coating in a lamp or chooses a design. Alcohol liquid will collect dust particles, sawdust and other waste from work, making the surface safe from bacteria, but in this case, wiping is only an intermediate cleaning – after the procedure, all surfaces are treated with a disinfectant solution.

Depending on the manufacturer, the cleanser’s ingredients may vary, but they always include:

• alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is considered a relatively safe component and is allowed for use in small quantities. Concentration in the clinlings does not exceed 30%;
• water – The basis of the Clinter. Usually prevails in the composition;

Extra elements:

• oils. If oils are included in the composition, the intermediate layers cannot be treated with a means of, since adhesion will be impaired. Oils take care of the nail and give the shine of the coating;
• Plant extracts, For example, chamomile or lavender;
• Perfume fragrances To give the wedinser a pleasant aroma.

How to replace Klinser

Occasionally, the Kliner ends at the worst possible time, and in these cases, the issue of replacement comes up. First, let’s discuss what should never be used in place of a Klinser:

varnish with acetone. The strongest solvent in the composition is intended to destroy the connections of coatings, therefore, even in minimal quantities can affect the native manicure. In addition, after the solvent, the surface may lose its shine and become cloudy;

If a cleanser isn’t available, you can try these methods to get rid of the stickiness:

• alcohol wipes. Alcohol-impregnated wipes are purchased for medical purposes – local injections or wound treatment. Alcohol wipes remove stickiness well with virtually no harm to the color and quality of the coating;
• medical alcohol or alcohol tincture. Before using such a “cleanser”, it is recommended to dilute the alcohol with water in a ratio of 1:3 – 3 tablespoons of water for 1 spoon of alcohol to reduce the concentration. Concentrated alcohol dries the skin and makes the coating cloudy.

Of course, the best way to deal with the inhibited layer is to use specific products that don’t damage the manicure or the skin surrounding the nails, or you can purchase a non-sticky top from Kodi that is labeled "No sticky."

How to choose a cleanser

• composition. Make sure that the composition contains oils – lavender, rosemary. And extracts, for example, chamomile. Additional components care for the nail and allow the cleanser not to dry out the skin;
• cleansers with a pump dispenser. They are much more convenient to use and allow you not to be distracted by wetting the napkin;
• smell. A sharp smell, both chemical and fragrance aroma, can cause a headache if inhaled for a long time. Try to buy cleansers with an unobtrusive smell.

The best cleansers for removing stickiness

Sophin

The liquid removes the sticky layer effectively and has a subtle smell. Isopropyl alcohol is the ingredient in action.

Grattol, Liquid 3 in 1

A multipurpose product can be used to remove stickiness after polymerization, degrease the nail plate, and make working with polygel easier. keeps the top from chipping and adds extra luster.

Kinetics, Di-Tac

Peach-scented cleaner works well for cleaning brushes after gel, polygel, and acrylic applications as well as for treating nails post-polymerization. A cotton pad is moistened with liquid and used as intended to eliminate stickiness. Brush cleaning: soak a cotton pad or sponge and wrap the fluffy portion of the brush for a few minutes.

Kodi, Cleanser

The liquid makes it possible to eliminate the material’s disintegration after polymerization without sacrificing the coating’s gloss. The manufacturer advises using a clean portion of the napkin on each nail and covering the nails with Kodi top to keep the color from getting hazy.

Severina, Adhesive Remover

Liquid that removes the sticky layer without sacrificing the coating’s sheen. Panthenol, which is a component of the composition, softens and moisturizes the skin around the nails. Can be applied as a liquid to remove nail polish from both synthetic and natural nails.

TNL, Cleaner

The two-in-one liquid works well for the last steps of a manicure—both degreasing and removing stickiness. To avoid damaging the shine, it is advised to remove the sticky layer two to three minutes after polymerization in the lamp.

If you correctly remove the sticky layer with specialized products, your manicure will be longer-lasting and more pleasing to you. Tell us which brand of cleanser you use in the comments section.

After applying gel nail polish, a common problem is a sticky layer, where a tacky residue sticks to the surface even after the polish has been cured under a lamp. In order to achieve a smooth and glossy finish, this layer must be removed even though it is necessary for bonding the gel layers. You can remove it by gently wiping the surface with a lint-free pad and rubbing alcohol or cleanser. Knowing how to take off this sticky layer correctly will guarantee that your manicure or pedicure looks amazing and lasts longer.

Share with friends!

Popular on the topic Manicure Materials

An overview of every product for manicures and pedicures

50 Winter Nail Design Ideas

Ideas for a cat’s eye manicure

An outline of the methods and supplies needed for each type of nail extension

For nail art, use sprinkles and loose decorations.

Improv ideas at their finest: geometry on nails

How-tos for DIY French manicures and a variety of French manicure ideas

Acrylic nail art in an arched design

We’re trying to locate our manicurist.

18 Causes of chipping and peeling of the coating and solutions for them

Magazine Sections

Express your opinion or ask a question! Cancel reply

What is a Sticky Layer?	The sticky layer, also known as the inhibition layer, is a tacky residue that forms on the surface of your nails after curing gel polish under a UV or LED lamp. It’s a normal part of the curing process and can feel a bit sticky to the touch.
Why Does It Happen?	During the curing process, a thin, sticky film is left behind because the gel polish hasn’t fully hardened or has not completely bonded with the top coat. It’s just part of how gel polishes work.
How to Remove It?	To remove the sticky layer, you need to wipe your nails with a lint-free wipe soaked in rubbing alcohol, nail cleanser, or a special gel cleaner. Gently rub the surface until the tackiness is gone, leaving your nails smooth and shiny.
Recommended Products	Look for nail cleansers or wipes specifically designed for removing sticky layers from gel polish. Rubbing alcohol can also work, but make sure it’s not too strong as it might damage the nail or cuticles.

The longevity and appearance of your nails can be significantly improved by being aware of the sticky layer that forms during manicure and pedicure procedures. This layer is a normal byproduct of the curing process and usually develops after applying gel polish or other products of a similar nature. It may seem like a bothersome residue, but this step is actually essential to make sure your polish adheres correctly and lasts longer.

It’s easy to remove the sticky layer, but doing it right is crucial to preventing problems with your nail art. To gently remove the layer, you can use acetone, alcohol wipes, or nail prep solutions. To preserve the integrity of your manicure or pedicure, just make sure you use the proper product and technique for your particular type of polish.

Maintaining your products and tools in good shape and using the proper removal techniques can significantly alter the outcome. In addition to looking fantastic, a smooth, clean finish helps avoid chipping and other issues. You can maintain your nails looking amazing and new for a longer period of time by being aware of and controlling the sticky layer.

Video on the topic

Removing the sticky layer WITHOUT! special liquids for removing the sticky layer.

How and when to remove the sticky layer from the top? / Why top with a sticky layer? / THINGS.PRO

Sticky layer on gel polish

💟DIY nail degreaser | How to remove the sticky layer | Alcohol and dehydrator | Pink Beauty

STICKY LAYER | Remove or leave? | Products for removing the sticky layer | THINGS.PRO