The Professional Guide to Nails: Understanding Different Nail Treatments

Written By Nicola Trudgeon

Choosing a nail treatment can be confusing. Here is my little deep dive into what is available in Salons, to help you decide what is best for your nail health and lifestyle. Hopefully this is helpful and will also explain why I only remove product I have applied for clients. With so many variations in products it can be tricky, never be afraid to ask your therapist what they are using and always plan how you will safely remove nail treatments.

1. Traditional Nail Polish (The Air-Dry Option)

  • What it is: A classic varnish that dries through evaporation.

  • Best for: Changing your look frequently and keeping the natural nail free from UV exposure.

  • Removal: Simple wipe-off with non-acetone remover.

2. Gel Polish (The Soft Gel) OPI Gel Colour

  • What it is: A "photo-reactive" liquid that must be cured under a UV or LED lamp to harden.

  • Best for: 2–3 weeks of chip-free colour. It adds a slight layer of protection but is still flexible.

  • Removal: Soaked off with acetone.

3. Builder Gel / Gels / Gel Nails (The Structure Provider)

  • What it is: A thicker, high-viscosity version of gel. It is much stronger than standard gel polish and can be used to create a slight "apex" (curve) on the nail for strength.

  • Best for: Strengthening natural nails to help them grow longer without snapping.

  • Removal: Can usually be soaked off, though it takes longer than standard gel.

4. Hard Gel (The Permanent Shield)

  • What it is: A non-porous, extremely tough gel used for long extensions or "overlays."

  • Best for: People who are very heavy-handed or want significant length. It is the most durable of the gel family.

  • Removal: Cannot be soaked off. It must be professionally filed down as the nail grows out.

5. Acrylics (The Liquid & Powder System)

  • What it is: A combination of a liquid (monomer) and a powder (polymer) that creates a hard protective layer as it air-dries.

  • Best for: Changing the actual shape of the nail (e.g., stiletto or coffin) and providing maximum hardness.

  • Removal: Soaked off in acetone, usually requiring 20–30 minutes.

6. Dip Powder (The Polymer Overlay)

  • What it is: Essentially a "brush-on" version of acrylic. A resin base is applied, and the nail is dipped into a colored acrylic powder.

  • Best for: People who want the strength of acrylics but don't like the smell of the liquid monomer used in traditional sets.

  • Removal: Soaked off in acetone.

7. Polygel (The Hybrid)

  • What it is: A pre-mixed "paste" that combines the best features of acrylic and hard gel. It is lighter than acrylic but stronger than standard gels.

  • Best for: Overlays and extensions where a lightweight, natural feel is preferred over the "heaviness" of acrylic.

  • Removal: Generally filed off, though some formulas allow for a partial soak.

    As a Therapist, my priority is the integrity of your natural nail.

    Always ensure your products are removed professionally, and never "pick" at your gels. If your nails feel thin or "bendy," a break from enhancements and a course of professional cuticle oil is the best way to restore the keratin layers. Innerlather Nourish & Glow Skin Oil is a great versatile product to nourish your skin, nails and cuticles

Nicola Trudgeon
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