Women have been trying to find new ways to grow out and maintain their fingernails forever, but it isn't as simple as it should be. Natural nails peel, acrylic breaks, and nail polish chips quickly. Most women don't have the time to maintain their fingernails every day, and for some women with thin, brittle nails, acrylics or UV gels are not an option. A new form of artificial nail called Calgel is now making its way into salons across the U.S.
Calgel in the U.S.
Calgel has been used for a long time in Europe and Asia, especially in Japan. Similar to UV Gel nails, Calgel is also set by UV light, but it is not damaging to the nails and lasts for 3 weeks. It is offered by only a handful of salons in the U.S. at the moment.
The Pros and Cons of Calgel
Calgel has a sticky consistency when applied, but it hardens to be smooth. It is very thin and natural-looking. The unique factor about Calgel is that the color is actually applied in a layer of UV gel as opposed to painted on top of the artificial nail. This means that the color does not chip or peel. The Calgel line has 80 colors to choose from.
The downside is that once a Calgel set is applied to the nails, subsequent fill-ins can only be done in a darker color because the color cannot be removed without removing the entire set and re-applying a new one. However, the Calgel is not harmed by non-acetone polish remover, so it can be painted over with another nail color temporarily and still retain the original color when the topcoat is removed.
Applying Calgel
The procedure for applying Calgel is fairly simple, but it takes about an hour and a half to complete. First the nail technician files and shapes the nails. Next, the nails are lightly buffed. An advantage to Calgel is that only minimal buffing is required, as opposed to the extensive buffing and/or drilling that acrylics require.
A coat of the clear Calgel is applied to the nails, and then held under a UV light for about 30 seconds. Next, two coats of color Calgel are applied. Each layer is set under the UV light for two to three minutes. Another coat of clear gel is applied and set, and then the technician wipes the sticky residue left behind off of the nails. Finally, a coat of clear nail polish is set on top of everything to complete the process.
Nail Art
Because Calgel color does not chip or peel, very intricate nail art can be done on the nails. Depending on the salon, rhinestones, patterns and artwork can be applied to the nail, usually for an additional charge. Many Japanese salons offer elaborate art ranging from leopard-print to 3D flower and heart designs.
Cost of Calgel
Calgel tends to be on the more expensive side because there is not much competition in the U.S. yet. Prices range from around $30-40 for a basic color, and can go upwards of $50 or $60 for French, gradation, or art.
Curious about another nail trend? Read about Wearing Matte Nailpolish
Kristen Joerger - Kristen is a student in NYC. She writes about fashion, beauty and travel. She loves sharing information about her favorite city, New York. ...
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