Why won’t my gel polish cure on my press-on nails?

If your gel polish isn’t curing properly on your press-on nails, several factors could be causing the issue. Here are some common reasons and how to address them:

1. Insufficient UV/LED Light Exposure

Solution: Ensure you are using a UV or LED lamp that is powerful enough and that you are curing for the recommended amount of time. Most gel polishes require a specific wattage and curing time, typically between 30-60 seconds per layer.

2. Incorrect Lamp Type

Solution: Verify that your lamp type matches the gel polish requirements. Some gel polishes are formulated specifically for UV lamps, others for LED, and some for both. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for compatibility.

3. Thick Layers of Gel Polish

Solution: Apply thinner layers of gel polish. Thick layers can prevent the UV or LED light from penetrating fully, resulting in incomplete curing. It’s better to apply multiple thin layers and cure each layer properly.

4. Incompatible Press-On Nails

Solution: Ensure that your press-on nails are compatible with gel polish. Some press-on nails may have a coating or surface texture that prevents the gel polish from adhering and curing properly. Lightly buff the surface of the press-on nails to create a better adhesion surface before applying the gel polish.

5. Expired or Old Gel Polish

Solution: Check the expiration date of your gel polish. Gel polish can become less effective over time, leading to curing issues. If your polish is old, consider replacing it.

6. Dirty or Oily Nail Surface

Solution: Ensure that the press-on nails are clean and free of oils or residue before applying gel polish. Use alcohol or a nail cleanser to thoroughly clean the surface.

7. Incorrect Base Coat Application

Solution: Apply a proper gel base coat and cure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying the gel polish. The base coat provides a sticky surface for the gel polish to adhere to and helps with proper curing.

8. Lamp Malfunction

Solution: Check if your UV/LED lamp is working correctly. Bulbs or LEDs can weaken over time. If your lamp is old or not functioning properly, it might not be providing enough light to cure the gel polish effectively.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Prep the Nails:

   • Clean the press-on nails thoroughly with alcohol or a nail cleanser.
   • Lightly buff the surface of the press-on nails to remove any shine and create a better surface for the gel to adhere to.

2. Base Coat Application:

   • Apply a thin layer of gel base coat.
   • Cure the base coat under the UV/LED lamp for the recommended time.

3. Gel Polish Application:

   • Apply a thin layer of gel polish.
   • Cure the layer under the UV/LED lamp for the recommended time.
   • Repeat with additional thin layers, curing each layer properly.

4. Top Coat Application:

   • Apply a thin layer of gel top coat.
   • Cure the top coat under the UV/LED lamp for the recommended time.

5. Final Cleanse:

   • Wipe the nails with alcohol or a nail cleanser to remove any sticky residue left by the top coat.
   • Apply cuticle oil to nourish and hydrate your cuticles.

By following these steps and ensuring that all factors are addressed, your gel polish should cure properly on your press-on nails.