This was the most informative youtube video that i have ever seen!! I dont say that loosley neither. You have gift to speak so cleary, effeciently and to the POINT!. You are super knowledgable ( I hope i spelled that right) I leared so much in this video..( i have been a tech for about 2 years and I NEVER knew or proably cared about the logistics of a watt!. Now, i have a new profound respect for how lamps work! thank you sis!!!!
I can't wait for your e-file video! And I still can't get over how much you are helping the entire nail community with this series. Imagine how many clients you've saved from a bad experience with these videos. I've learned sooo soo much from you already, keep up the amazing work!
I am just amazed at the way you were able to answer every question with so much clarity. You are not only knowledgeable but also appear to be such a sweet soul. You have some sort of gracefulness & are so beautiful, I just keep looking at you when you talk. Thank you so much for your time & for sharing every bit of things you have learnt over the years. Keep up the wonderful work you are doing. God bless.
My former nail tech (I loved the process so I'm a diyer now) gave me the nail file after using it on me and said that I could take it home and use it if I needed it and next time I could bring it with me so it wouldn't go to waste. Being a biologist I loved the attitude and fully support it
As a person who does her nails at home when the chance presents itself and a nurse , I’m so happy to hear you letting people know the health risks involved with some of these behaviors some techs are sharing. I’m referring to the storing of nail files especially. Well done. I also want to add that yes, when a client is present, tossing the disposable pieces and placing dirty instruments in a designated area speaks volumes about the services one can anticipate receiving when choosing their business to spend their money. Though I can see what the nail tech was trying to achieve by filing instruments and/or products used in their session for each client, it would lead me to believe that the tech was either a beginner ( which would have me less confident in my end result) or that they were cheap, in which I would feel more comfortable taking my business elsewhere because everything about the service will become a nickel and dime set up. I know things can become extras within but let’s not make it top priority. Happy to pay for those but should can be understood with a detailed price board hung up and on the website. Point it you don’t want your customer thinking you might try to get over in them because you showed that things are tight financially and trust can be lost. I hope I’m describing what I’m trying to share. Anyway, good luck to you all and Liz keep up the wonderful teaching. Your videos are full of wisdom.
You should come out with your own line of nail products. Some nail "personalities" have their own line and they don't have nearly the amount of knowledge and integrity you have. You're a natural born educator. I live in NY or else I'd go to your salon in a heartbeat. Thank you for gifting us with ALL your knowledge!
Hi, Liz. I just found your channel and subscribed. Your channel is clearly the best out there for the depth and breadth of instruction and product information you provide. Just one correction to bring up regarding treating cuts or other wounds: never use hydrogen peroxide on an open wound or cut. Hydrogen peroxide actually damages any healthy tissue around the wound (the "bubbling" action that people like to see is actually the oxygen in the damaged and healthy tissue being removed, which is not good) and inhibits the healing process. Cleaning the cut or wound with running cool water and mild soap (not antibacterial soap) is sufficient. Thank you for providing well-thought-out videos with incredible product and process information!
Thanks for the awesome feedback! People can def use any antiseptic they like. I actually love hydrogen peroxide for lots of things and have used it forever. The release of oxygen causes foaming, which helps to remove dead skin and clean the area, and it is readily available anywhere. The goal is just to clean the wound and care for it properly to prevent infection. ;)
I have contact dermatitis from the exact reasons Liz spoke of and I recently befriended a doctor who strongly suggested using ISOPA (70-99 is fine. The higher the number, the less water) on my fingers. I thought he was nuts and we experimented on one finger. For the first time in a year, my hands are 100% clear. He also advocates using same on cuts. He’s used it following surgery. Yes, it will sting but I’m now a believer. It’s cheap and effective😍
I had a paronychia/cuticule infection when I was in my 20's. Painful and needed to be lanced by the doc. No fun! I was working in the ICU at the time and likely got infection from having hangnails and such. This was in the day when we didn't wear gloves for everything. Every since, at the first sign of anything tender in the cuticle area I do warm betadine finger soak/if no allergy to iodine or peroxide (not mixed together). I am not a nail tech/RN by degree, and the other day I did exactly what Liz mentioned and cut my cuticle with a manual nail file. Started the soaks, three times a day. Marked improvement in 24 hours. Nothing to mess about with, if no improvement you must see a doctor for any progression. Thanks Liz for all you great advise. I am working my way through your videos. This is my retirement hobby. Who know, may take a class and sit for certification. :}
I really love this series! Thank you so much for making these videos. I've been doing my own nails for over 30 years (with a few years in there where I gave my nails a break) and I realize how much I have forgotten (or never knew) about using acrylic. Plus I love learning more about gel! May I make one small suggestion, please? When you talk about "gel", I really think it would be very helpful, especially to beginners, to specify whether you are referring to actual gel (hard or soak off) or gel polish. Thank you!
Actually yes I will try to do that more but usually when I say gel I mean all gel. I usually only specify when there is a need, and most of the time gel is gel regardless of the formula. But def good suggestion.
Another “out of the park” educational video! As another poster mentioned, you are really helping educate the nail community! Thank you❣️ On another note, I responded on another posters reply about how a doctor friend of mine recommended using straight isopropyl alcohol on cuts, contact dermatitis etc. originally thought he was grossly mistaken but he was right!! I’ve been suffering with contact dermatitis for a year without any relief. I wear gloves (appropriate nitrile 8 ml as suggested on the allergy FB Page) and I now vigilantly wipe brushes/jars/work space etc) Still was not able to clear it up. Bought so many recommended lotions/salves. Used dr prescribed steroid cream. Nothing was clearing the skin/peeling/bleeding. Stopped the steroids. Thins the skin & wasn’t helping. Met this new friend who is a doctor and he told me about using ISOPA I began with 50% because that’s what he had on hand. I’m away so I had no access to my own alcohol (70 & 99%). My hands cleared in 48 hours!! I use the alcohol a couple of times/day. I haven’t had clear, healthy hands in almost a year. I also am applying cuticle oil daily and moisturizing my hands to prevent dryness. Thought this may help anyone else with similar issues. 😍
So informative there is so much disinformation on TH-cam so it’s nice to have some info from a professional. I’m not a nail tech but I do my own gel nails because of my weird work schedule :( and this is sooo helpful thank you for taking the time out of your day to do these!!
Completely irrelevant I know, but I just wanted to say how beautiful your makeup is in the video, you look stunning girl! Another really helpful informative video and yey for yarn, I'm a huge knitting and crochet fan, I'm almost as addicted to yarn as I am to nail products! Lol.. not so great at embroidery but love creating things with my hands, looking forward to the next installment 😍💕xxx
I use the Young Nails slick pour system to provide a cover over my nails and provide a thin layer for gel polish. Other companies have similar systems. I like the powder + gel system because the formula removes a lot easier than gel polish alone. Instead of scraping bits off my nail after soaking (I’m not very good at the soak off) the powder + gel system flakes off and dissolves easily, which was a good solution for me. I also found that the powder + gel system allows me to gently file off my gel color and retain the acrylic/gel coverage for a polish change. I just use a buffer to even out the gritty texture.
I've always loved your videos, but you just totally skyrocketed to superstar in my book after saying you love the movie Labyrinth!! I am a huge, huge fan of the movie and also know every single line. I'm loving your David Bowie candle too!!
I am about to learn doing gel nails, by my self and I walk in to a lot of ...difficulty (for example choose a lamp) But you are giving me so much inside information,it is so detaild!! Al your videos are super helpfull thanksss
Oh that’s a great tip! I’m always storing my personal nail stuff in baggies! Now I’m going to throw them away! Only the nail files! Thank you for sharing 💞
Question 9: if you have an infection or fungus, go to your doctor for and medicine. Over the counter creams only treat the appearance of the fungus especially. You need an rx to get rid of it. I am a pharmacy technician and just helped a patient with my pharmacists assistance.
I love all your videos! You have helped me so much. But now that I know you are a nerd like me… I’m even more happy!!! Did anyone else wait eagerly to see the awards at the end…
Hey Liz! I must say I’ve been really enjoying this new series. I have follow you since your podcast days! I’ve learn so much from you. I’m starting as a nail artist and this has helped me so much. These are the important things to know when you are starting out with gel and I feel that many nail schools don’t teach you that much. I wanted to ask you: what’s the best way to advoid your customer nails from getting little particules of weird dust that sits in the sticky inhibition layer between curing. It really annoys me. Thanks again for your wisdom.
You work with yarn too!? I learned to knit about 6 years ago after I unfortunately experienced a spinal injury! Then last year I was on a crusade to lose weight (lost nearly 70 lbs) and I taught myself to crochet! I am highly productive with crafting but all of a sudden my nails have started growing beautifully so I’ve decided to start doing my own gel nails as I was tired of my nail polish not lasting long enough! I’ve been watching your videos as I just love to absorb information! Another hobby to add to the list, I also keep some amazing goldfish as well!
Between Labyrinth, Harry Potter and your incredible knowledge, you are my kind of people! Lol. I have learned a TREMENDOUS amount from you. I started researching doing my own nails due to the continuous disappointment with local nail salons. Your fundamentals series have been the most informative by far. Thank you so much. Do you have any recommendations on how to help heal natural nails when they have been overfiled and overworked from extensions, nail art, ect? Or just what to use to protect natural nails while growing out the damage.
Finally a professional nail channel Can’t thank you enough 🙏 Your videos have increased my business and knowledge in new found ways. I’m having problems with the polish “shrinking” at the very tip though it doesn’t lift it doesn’t look great with a very dark color. What am I doing wrong? Thanks
That makes me so happy! :) If it is shrinking at the tip it might have something to do with the formula or could be a product incompatibility between the base and the color. Try dry wiping the inhibition layer with a clean brush to remove the excess uncured gel. This should help the dark color apply nicely without "swimming" on top and moving around.
After your opinions on 3 in 1 gel polish I’m SUPER interested in what you think of 3 in 1 builders like Akzentz trinity. As for the acrylic and gel method Amy Masters has been doing her genre method for years with great success so that’s something to think about before dismissing the method also young nails advertises this as a non resin dip method. Last thought is the uv/led lights dilemma.... I’ve been using sun 5 uv/led from the sun uv/Led store on AliExpress for a year and a half on the 6 different lines I use. I have 3 one for pedicures and the other 2 on my tables. I love them they cost me $40 each (on sale) !!! So I would rather be able to buy 3 lamps for less than the cost of 1 lamp that goes ‘with’ my system. I understand the warranty issue with company’s but honestly Sun Uv/Led makes a lot of the brands lamps anyway... so that’s my opinion 😂. I love your videos Liz keep up the great work xxxxx
Thanks! 3-in-1 hard gel is very different than the cheap gel polish colors that come from typical China sources. I actually own and have used both Akzentz Trinity as well as Amy's Masterworks. These hard gels are not at all what I am talking about in this video and both work great. What I'm specifically talking about here are 3-in-1 gel polish.
I have quite a few 3-in-1 soak-off gels from Madam Glam and Bio Seaweed Gels and have had great success with both (no unpleasant smell at all). I have no experience with the inexpensive gels from China however.
That was really informative, and you’re right - there were some totally interesting questions (things I wouldn’t have even thought of yet!) So thanks so much Liz 🙏🏼
Another home run! All great questions, and interesting answers. I also enjoyed learning a little more about you. I crochet too, and have tons of embroidery things, though I don’t embroider very well. I lived in Phoenix for some 25 years, and most of my family still lives there. I’ll be visiting in November. Now I feel like we’re neighbors or some other non-creepy stuff. Lol
As usual very informative video. Thank you for sharing and the efforts put in to the channel! I dont know why but i never thought to search you on instagram... fixing my mistake right after this comment! I just wanted to ask to explain how do one finds out that gel polish is cured properly/fully. I know that gel polish goes hard after it is cured on 50%? So if you dont use the recommended lamp, dont cure for the recommended time, have bought cheap polish with no instructions regarding curing time, we run the risk of having hard gel colour coat which is not fully cured? What risks does this bring? Thank you in advance!
We will discuss how to test gel if it's curing properly in a future video. But the quick answer is paint some on a form, cure it, peel it off (with gloves on to protect your skin) and see if it is cured underneath and inside. Only really risk is product breakdown which means the service won't last as long as it is supposed to. And other issue could be the uncured gel could get on the skin but that is very minimal. Usually it is quality of service related.
*I've seen TH-camrs nail techs that show how the "make" polygels by mixing gels with acrylic powders(some use clear, some use white, some use both of these and some also add non brand pigments). They use it on clients and themselves and just cure it in the lamp after applications. So, are their "mix" not getting cured? *About the wattage~ I have a portable 24W lamp for when I travel so what if I just cure longer or double period of the recommended time? Is what I've been doing and seemed to work. *Looking forward to the "How to test gels video 😀 *Hope you get feeling better quickly and all the symptoms completely clear. Please take good care ❤ We need you! Also hope Ms Celina is doing better as well. If you speak to her please give her my love and let her know she's in our thoughts and hearts.
Yay! Nerds unite! I completely get what you're saying about not storing files etc for clients. That makes a ton of sense. But the thought of all that stuff going into the landfill gives me the heebies. I think manufacturers need to step up now and make these items fully recyclable for nail techs. I have no idea if its doable, but it should be. Any chance you could tell me what eyeshadow(s) you're wearing in this video? ;D
I hear you. Here's a great link for a place that helps recycle salon waste. greencirclesalons.com/ And I am wearing several colors from the HUDA BEAUTY Desert Dusk Eyeshadow Palette. 😀
Wow! Awesome video! I'm here fm your recent visit and tea with Suzi! New sub and I'm really looking forward to bingeing on your past videos and seeing your new ones!💜
I love your videos. Ever thought about setting up your online academy? What kind of tools would you use with people who have diseases such as diabetes. Or any other chronic disease that involves blood circulation?
Hello, I just found your channel and plan to watch all your vids, I’m new to doing my own. At the end you asked for questions no matter how basic, so here goes mine! My gel top coat started peeling from the free edge, I’m wondering what might have caused this? I capped my free edge, but, some ran underneath my nail, so that I can understand, as it bugged me and it popped up, but so far another has peeled. Gel over dip powder was my procedure. Thank you so much, you’re very, very helpful and super easy to follow and grasp because of your thoroughness! I look forward to your series!
Love your videos, they are so very informative! This is minor, but for the sake of accuracy: nail lamp wattage (and lightbulb wattage) is the power consumption, not a measure of the light level emitted. Your reasoning is still on track though; together, more individual LEDs will consume more power than fewer LEDs, therefore have a combined higher wattage. This also explains why household LED lightbulbs have a lower wattage but still emit the same level of light as a higher watt incandescent or compact fluorescent bulb. 🙂
That is true but in nail industry terms when shopping for lamps manufacturers have used wattage as a way to show potency. We should really have lamps that have lumen ratings but instead everything is generically listed in Watts and in a way is meant to indicate how powerful of a lamp it is even though wattage normally only refers to power consumption. Unfortunately people who don't know all that will rely just on wattage when shopping for lamps much like they do RPMs on e-files even though that doesn't really dictate potential. So as a general rule it's safe to operate under the assumption that more Watts on the package means more UV light and increased curing strength. Glad you're liking the series!
Hopefully this will Be covered eventually but I’ll ask anyway. I do my own nails at home, I want to add tips. Can I add tips then do gel polish without adding a builder? Also, is there a such thing as switching color too often? I’ve found myself switching every week just because I have tons of colors and like to switch my color. Thank you!!!!
Yes we will cover tips soon. Short answer, no in 99% of cases you cannot just use gel polish over tips. And yes you can definitely overdo it. I recommend leaving any color on or at least 10-14 days at a time. Changing more often than that means you are more likely going to thin out your nails and cause damage.
The Nail Hub thank you!!! Can you recommend some brand name led lamps? I have a red carpet one, causing curing issues. Would like a better quality one! Just for me at home so nothing salon quality but when I google so many come up from “cheap” sites and I’m not sure what’s good quality or not
Would you be able to suggest a good dust extracting system? I am having a heck of a time finding something that works good and actually sucks up all the dust! I am so over all the gel dust!!! I can’t take it. Thanks for any information and btw I love your videos.
Hey Liz! great video! Additional question on keeping your implements closed but not enclosed completely in something. What about when you clean your implements and use those sterilization pouches? Are these not supposed to be used?
Not sure if this really exists as a manufacturer of a universal gel base coat would have to test every gel on the market for compatibility. But there are some that play nicer than others. Are you a DIYer or a professional? That way I can recommend things you can actually buy. :)
#3 I honestly I don't know which companies started first. For LeChat has a product line called "Gelee", base on the "Dipping System" where you use "resin" and "dipping powder". Star Nail International have a line called "AcryGel UV Gel", where you combine gel and acrylic powders.
Hi Liz ! I recently changed to gelish gel polishes vs the cheaper collections on amazon.. do you recommend gelish ? Also I wonder if I can use my $30 LED lamp vs getting a more expensive lamp . What don you think? What other brands do you recommend ?
Hi Liz, thank you for doing these amazing videos, i have started following your tips, tricks and education and have had great success. Can you do a desk/chair setup video? and can you tell us about how to avoid back/neck pain?
I have a question, after drilling and filing I brush off the dust. When I wipe the nail before gel base coat or builder gel do I cleanse the nail or just use a dry lint free pad?
Hi! I discovered your channel not long ago and I'm really enjoying all your videos. So I recently bought a 27 watt lamp and so far I've used it 3x and seems to be ok. I'm only doing my own nails with regular gel polish. Nothing too fancy. Since it's only 27W and you suggest 36+ should I just cute a little longer to get a better manicure? Thanks!!!!
Wattage really doesn't tell you how much UV light is being emitted. My guess is even if you cure it longer it may not fully activate the photoinitiators in the gel and you won't get a full cure. With lamps you get what you pay for 100%. But it's hard to say just based on wattage. Curing gel properly comes down to the amount of UV light, the range of UV light, and also the formula of the gel.
Hi Liz, again great tutorial! You speak so clearly and concisely.i to lived in Arizona before moving back to Australia, hubby's Australian. What part do you live in if I may ask, I lived in Mesa. Also do find any issues using gel in that climate?I know acrylic can be hard to use sometimes in that heat. Cheers from Melbourne Australia 🌺🐨
Great make gel runnier but with air conditioning it's less of an issue. Gel that's too cold can get thicker as well. Australia is beautiful! Hi from AZ!
I use gel polish, also i've tried the dipping acrylic, my hands are in perm solution and water all most all the time. Can apply the dipping acrylic over the gel nail polish? Something that will make my nails polish stay on longer. Thank you
#4 China Glaze their gel polishes have a base built in. On that note what about gel colors that cure "tack free". Eg. YN "Mission Control" gel paints & Crystal Nail "Royal Gel"
Hi, thanks for all your awesome videos. I have a question regarding accidentally cutting a client. We’ve all done it and im sure it will happen again even to the best of us. So...if you cut a clients cuticle and it bleeds the tiniest bit, do you tell your client you can’t proceed the service and send the home/leave?
I haven't seen Labyrinth since I introduced my 24 yr old to it YEARS ago. I need to pull it out and show it to my younger 2. Dobby is FREE!!!! hehe In NC we have to have dirty and clean implement boxes. And the school I went to, it got drilled into your head from day 1 to have a clean and dirty implement box. I keep some of mine in those cheap plastic pencil boxes, so I can at the very least sanitize the box too. I have a few repeat manicure clients, I do store their files, blocks and a few other things, and they are people that are Germaphobes or had gotten an infection or fungus from a not so clean salon. I use 180 too for practically everything. In school we were told to not accept clients with open sores, some conditions, rashes, etc on their hands, feet or head.
Hi, I just subscribed and have learned lots about the lamps and more. I’m licensed in hair and nails. I have 36 watt UV not LED., from Cosmoprof here in Ontario and good so far except slow timing. Is LED faster curing time?. I only do Gels and never tried Acrylic so far. I want to get one high powered lamp and which one is that and also cost affordability. My lamp was $130.00 professionally. You deserve thumbs up and I don’t understand how people gave you thumbs down and 7.👍🏻💕
Hi Liz love u so much I saw ur aal videos fundamental also its very very helpful .I have one question about base coat that once I applied base coat and by mistaken I apply wrong color I got remind that it's wrong color so I wipe out with alcohol but after that I feel base coat adhesion is no there so I again apply base coat than apply color I want to know what to do in that condition if we apply wrong color or something we forgot just after base coat?
Hi Liz! hope you are well! cannot express enough how great your videos are. Thank you for taking the time and sharing. One of the many things i learned from this video is that when a wound has been made, you can use hydrogen peroxide+neosporen or styptic. Is there anything else beside these 3 +bandaids that a nail tec should have in there "EHBO"-kit? Looking forward to your next video's and hope to be able to meet you in person one day! kind regards!
Thanks Mei! Every nail tech should have a bio hazard kit in their desk. I will discuss this more in an upcoming safety video. You should def have rubber gloves (nitrile is great because they don't cause latex allergies), stiptyc, and "blood spill clean up" supplies. Cuts can happen so being prepared is key. I will cover this very soon.
Can you tell me if thetes a difference between he'll and poly-gel? I know that "gels" come in various thickness but is the term gel just short for poly-gel or are they 2 different things?
Most of my polishes are 3-in-1, but I used one as colour only for this manicure. My base, colour, and top coats are all from different brands. I wiped the inhibition layer using isopropyl alcohol after base coat, my last colour coat, and the top coats (my matte and shiny top coats are no wipe, but I wiped anyway. lol). I also lightly shake all bottles and roll for about 20-30 seconds. This has been the longest I've worn a gel manicure at nearly 10 days. However, one of my matte top coats did chip at the free edge (I used two different brands). Does any one have any suggestions as to why this occurred??? Also, thank you very much, Liz!!. The Nail Fundamentals have helped me tremendously!. These were really great questions. May you consider doing Q&A videos every couple of months if possible.
This was the most informative youtube video that i have ever seen!! I dont say that loosley neither. You have gift to speak so cleary, effeciently and to the POINT!. You are super knowledgable ( I hope i spelled that right) I leared so much in this video..( i have been a tech for about 2 years and I NEVER knew or proably cared about the logistics of a watt!. Now, i have a new profound respect for how lamps work! thank you sis!!!!
Oh thank you! I really appreciate your kind words.
I can't wait for your e-file video!
And I still can't get over how much you are helping the entire nail community with this series. Imagine how many clients you've saved from a bad experience with these videos. I've learned sooo soo much from you already, keep up the amazing work!
I am just amazed at the way you were able to answer every question with so much clarity. You are not only knowledgeable but also appear to be such a sweet soul. You have some sort of gracefulness & are so beautiful, I just keep looking at you when you talk. Thank you so much for your time & for sharing every bit of things you have learnt over the years. Keep up the wonderful work you are doing. God bless.
My former nail tech (I loved the process so I'm a diyer now) gave me the nail file after using it on me and said that I could take it home and use it if I needed it and next time I could bring it with me so it wouldn't go to waste. Being a biologist I loved the attitude and fully support it
As a person who does her nails at home when the chance presents itself and a nurse , I’m so happy to hear you letting people know the health risks involved with some of these behaviors some techs are sharing. I’m referring to the storing of nail files especially. Well done. I also want to add that yes, when a client is present, tossing the disposable pieces and placing dirty instruments in a designated area speaks volumes about the services one can anticipate receiving when choosing their business to spend their money. Though I can see what the nail tech was trying to achieve by filing instruments and/or products used in their session for each client, it would lead me to believe that the tech was either a beginner ( which would have me less confident in my end result) or that they were cheap, in which I would feel more comfortable taking my business elsewhere because everything about the service will become a nickel and dime set up. I know things can become extras within but let’s not make it top priority. Happy to pay for those but should can be understood with a detailed price board hung up and on the website. Point it you don’t want your customer thinking you might try to get over in them because you showed that things are tight financially and trust can be lost. I hope I’m describing what I’m trying to share. Anyway, good luck to you all and Liz keep up the wonderful teaching. Your videos are full of wisdom.
You should come out with your own line of nail products. Some nail "personalities" have their own line and they don't have nearly the amount of knowledge and integrity you have. You're a natural born educator. I live in NY or else I'd go to your salon in a heartbeat.
Thank you for gifting us with ALL your knowledge!
Hello Magz……..😊
My goodness! You’re a wealth of knowledge! So interesting and learning so much.
OMG guess what?!?!? I did a hard gel overlay and it came out awesome! Thank you!!!! P.s. I was adopted from russia when I was 9 yrs old.
Awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi, Liz. I just found your channel and subscribed. Your channel is clearly the best out there for the depth and breadth of instruction and product information you provide.
Just one correction to bring up regarding treating cuts or other wounds: never use hydrogen peroxide on an open wound or cut. Hydrogen peroxide actually damages any healthy tissue around the wound (the "bubbling" action that people like to see is actually the oxygen in the damaged and healthy tissue being removed, which is not good) and inhibits the healing process. Cleaning the cut or wound with running cool water and mild soap (not antibacterial soap) is sufficient.
Thank you for providing well-thought-out videos with incredible product and process information!
Thanks for the awesome feedback! People can def use any antiseptic they like. I actually love hydrogen peroxide for lots of things and have used it forever. The release of oxygen causes foaming, which helps to remove dead skin and clean the area, and it is readily available anywhere. The goal is just to clean the wound and care for it properly to prevent infection. ;)
I have contact dermatitis from the exact reasons Liz spoke of and I recently befriended a doctor who strongly suggested using ISOPA (70-99 is fine. The higher the number, the less water) on my fingers. I thought he was nuts and we experimented on one finger. For the first time in a year, my hands are 100% clear. He also advocates using same on cuts. He’s used it following surgery. Yes, it will sting but I’m now a believer. It’s cheap and effective😍
I had a paronychia/cuticule infection when I was in my 20's. Painful and needed to be lanced by the doc. No fun! I was working in the ICU at the time and likely got infection from having hangnails and such. This was in the day when we didn't wear gloves for everything. Every since, at the first sign of anything tender in the cuticle area I do warm betadine finger soak/if no allergy to iodine or peroxide (not mixed together). I am not a nail tech/RN by degree, and the other day I did exactly what Liz mentioned and cut my cuticle with a manual nail file. Started the soaks, three times a day. Marked improvement in 24 hours. Nothing to mess about with, if no improvement you must see a doctor for any progression. Thanks Liz for all you great advise. I am working my way through your videos. This is my retirement hobby. Who know, may take a class and sit for certification. :}
So glad I found u even though it's 3 years after the fact. I wish I had seen your videos prior to starting school. U explain things so well.
I really love this series! Thank you so much for making these videos. I've been doing my own nails for over 30 years (with a few years in there where I gave my nails a break) and I realize how much I have forgotten (or never knew) about using acrylic. Plus I love learning more about gel!
May I make one small suggestion, please? When you talk about "gel", I really think it would be very helpful, especially to beginners, to specify whether you are referring to actual gel (hard or soak off) or gel polish. Thank you!
Actually yes I will try to do that more but usually when I say gel I mean all gel. I usually only specify when there is a need, and most of the time gel is gel regardless of the formula. But def good suggestion.
@@TheNailHub Thank you so much for the clarification!
Another “out of the park” educational video! As another poster mentioned, you are really helping educate the nail community! Thank you❣️
On another note, I responded on another posters reply about how a doctor friend of mine recommended using straight isopropyl alcohol on cuts, contact dermatitis etc. originally thought he was grossly mistaken but he was right!! I’ve been suffering with contact dermatitis for a year without any relief. I wear gloves (appropriate nitrile 8 ml as suggested on the allergy FB Page) and I now vigilantly wipe brushes/jars/work space etc) Still was not able to clear it up. Bought so many recommended lotions/salves. Used dr prescribed steroid cream. Nothing was clearing the skin/peeling/bleeding. Stopped the steroids. Thins the skin & wasn’t helping. Met this new friend who is a doctor and he told me about using ISOPA I began with 50% because that’s what he had on hand. I’m away so I had no access to my own alcohol (70 & 99%). My hands cleared in 48 hours!! I use the alcohol a couple of times/day. I haven’t had clear, healthy hands in almost a year. I also am applying cuticle oil daily and moisturizing my hands to prevent dryness. Thought this may help anyone else with similar issues. 😍
Wow that is awesome Susan! Thanks for sharing this!
So informative there is so much disinformation on TH-cam so it’s nice to have some info from a professional. I’m not a nail tech but I do my own gel nails because of my weird work schedule :( and this is sooo helpful thank you for taking the time out of your day to do these!!
Completely irrelevant I know, but I just wanted to say how beautiful your makeup is in the video, you look stunning girl! Another really helpful informative video and yey for yarn, I'm a huge knitting and crochet fan, I'm almost as addicted to yarn as I am to nail products! Lol.. not so great at embroidery but love creating things with my hands, looking forward to the next installment 😍💕xxx
I adore the fact that you're a nerd. I think it helps make you fantastic at teaching all this nail stuff!
Merci!
I leaned a lot from you. Each one of ur video make sense to me. Thank you so much 😊
Thank you so much. Just a DIYer here, I love all the information you share and have learned so much. Cheers!
I love that you are into textile stuff - I also embroider & crochet.
I use the Young Nails slick pour system to provide a cover over my nails and provide a thin layer for gel polish. Other companies have similar systems. I like the powder + gel system because the formula removes a lot easier than gel polish alone. Instead of scraping bits off my nail after soaking (I’m not very good at the soak off) the powder + gel system flakes off and dissolves easily, which was a good solution for me. I also found that the powder + gel system allows me to gently file off my gel color and retain the acrylic/gel coverage for a polish change. I just use a buffer to even out the gritty texture.
Glad to hear it works for you. I'm not a fan but to each their own. :)
You are wonderful for sharing so many great tips, Thank you :)
Thank you so much for this Fundamentals series... I just got motivated to buy an e-file to do my own nails, because now I know how to handle it
I've always loved your videos, but you just totally skyrocketed to superstar in my book after saying you love the movie Labyrinth!! I am a huge, huge fan of the movie and also know every single line. I'm loving your David Bowie candle too!!
I am about to learn doing gel nails, by my self and I walk in to a lot of ...difficulty (for example choose a lamp) But you are giving me so much inside information,it is so detaild!! Al your videos are super helpfull thanksss
Brilliant Q&A, not only are your nails amazing but your make up is flawless too. I bet your house is gorgeous!
Oh that’s a great tip! I’m always storing my personal nail stuff in baggies! Now I’m going to throw them away! Only the nail files! Thank you for sharing 💞
Question 9: if you have an infection or fungus, go to your doctor for and medicine. Over the counter creams only treat the appearance of the fungus especially. You need an rx to get rid of it. I am a pharmacy technician and just helped a patient with my pharmacists assistance.
Like always very very good informations, thank you for sharing your knowledge 😄💜
I love all your videos! You have helped me so much. But now that I know you are a nerd like me… I’m even more happy!!! Did anyone else wait eagerly to see the awards at the end…
Hey Liz! I must say I’ve been really enjoying this new series. I have follow you since your podcast days! I’ve learn so much from you. I’m starting as a nail artist and this has helped me so much. These are the important things to know when you are starting out with gel and I feel that many nail schools don’t teach you that much. I wanted to ask you: what’s the best way to advoid your customer nails from getting little particules of weird dust that sits in the sticky inhibition layer between curing. It really annoys me. Thanks again for your wisdom.
You work with yarn too!? I learned to knit about 6 years ago after I unfortunately experienced a spinal injury! Then last year I was on a crusade to lose weight (lost nearly 70 lbs) and I taught myself to crochet! I am highly productive with crafting but all of a sudden my nails have started growing beautifully so I’ve decided to start doing my own gel nails as I was tired of my nail polish not lasting long enough! I’ve been watching your videos as I just love to absorb information! Another hobby to add to the list, I also keep some amazing goldfish as well!
Between Labyrinth, Harry Potter and your incredible knowledge, you are my kind of people! Lol. I have learned a TREMENDOUS amount from you. I started researching doing my own nails due to the continuous disappointment with local nail salons. Your fundamentals series have been the most informative by far. Thank you so much. Do you have any recommendations on how to help heal natural nails when they have been overfiled and overworked from extensions, nail art, ect? Or just what to use to protect natural nails while growing out the damage.
My dear I've never seen someone so left AND right brained!
Awesome thanks. Very informative 💜
Finally a professional nail channel Can’t thank you enough 🙏 Your videos have increased my business and knowledge in new found ways. I’m having problems with the polish “shrinking” at the very tip though it doesn’t lift it doesn’t look great with a very dark color. What am I doing wrong? Thanks
That makes me so happy! :) If it is shrinking at the tip it might have something to do with the formula or could be a product incompatibility between the base and the color. Try dry wiping the inhibition layer with a clean brush to remove the excess uncured gel. This should help the dark color apply nicely without "swimming" on top and moving around.
Haha! I’m a Harry Potter nerd too! I love the little Dobby in the background!!!
After your opinions on 3 in 1 gel polish I’m SUPER interested in what you think of 3 in 1 builders like Akzentz trinity. As for the acrylic and gel method Amy Masters has been doing her genre method for years with great success so that’s something to think about before dismissing the method also young nails advertises this as a non resin dip method. Last thought is the uv/led lights dilemma.... I’ve been using sun 5 uv/led from the sun uv/Led store on AliExpress for a year and a half on the 6 different lines I use. I have 3 one for pedicures and the other 2 on my tables. I love them they cost me $40 each (on sale) !!! So I would rather be able to buy 3 lamps for less than the cost of 1 lamp that goes ‘with’ my system. I understand the warranty issue with company’s but honestly Sun Uv/Led makes a lot of the brands lamps anyway... so that’s my opinion 😂. I love your videos Liz keep up the great work xxxxx
Thanks! 3-in-1 hard gel is very different than the cheap gel polish colors that come from typical China sources. I actually own and have used both Akzentz Trinity as well as Amy's Masterworks. These hard gels are not at all what I am talking about in this video and both work great. What I'm specifically talking about here are 3-in-1 gel polish.
The Nail Hub I figured that there had to be a huge difference between the polishes and the hard gels ❤️
I have quite a few 3-in-1 soak-off gels from Madam Glam and Bio Seaweed Gels and have had great success with both (no unpleasant smell at all). I have no experience with the inexpensive gels from China however.
That was really informative, and you’re right - there were some totally interesting questions (things I wouldn’t have even thought of yet!) So thanks so much Liz 🙏🏼
Your personal aesthetic reminds me of Jennifer Connelly! Tfs!
Omg girl I love video games, crochet and cross stitch too! Maybe it’s a nail thing
Another home run! All great questions, and interesting answers. I also enjoyed learning a little more about you. I crochet too, and have tons of embroidery things, though I don’t embroider very well. I lived in Phoenix for some 25 years, and most of my family still lives there. I’ll be visiting in November. Now I feel like we’re neighbors or some other non-creepy stuff. Lol
Hello Pam……..😊
I’m so excited, I live in Arizona too. I have a question, how do I avoid filing a notch, when filing the side of the free edge?
Turn the finger so you can align your file. Check out my video on nail files: th-cam.com/video/--I71QGnGkE/w-d-xo.html
As usual very informative video. Thank you for sharing and the efforts put in to the channel! I dont know why but i never thought to search you on instagram... fixing my mistake right after this comment! I just wanted to ask to explain how do one finds out that gel polish is cured properly/fully. I know that gel polish goes hard after it is cured on 50%? So if you dont use the recommended lamp, dont cure for the recommended time, have bought cheap polish with no instructions regarding curing time, we run the risk of having hard gel colour coat which is not fully cured? What risks does this bring?
Thank you in advance!
We will discuss how to test gel if it's curing properly in a future video. But the quick answer is paint some on a form, cure it, peel it off (with gloves on to protect your skin) and see if it is cured underneath and inside. Only really risk is product breakdown which means the service won't last as long as it is supposed to. And other issue could be the uncured gel could get on the skin but that is very minimal. Usually it is quality of service related.
*I've seen TH-camrs nail techs that show how the "make" polygels by mixing gels with acrylic powders(some use clear, some use white, some use both of these and some also add non brand pigments). They use it on clients and themselves and just cure it in the lamp after applications. So, are their "mix" not getting cured?
*About the wattage~ I have a portable 24W lamp for when I travel so what if I just cure longer or double period of the recommended time? Is what I've been doing and seemed to work.
*Looking forward to the "How to test gels video 😀
*Hope you get feeling better quickly and all the symptoms completely clear. Please take good care ❤ We need you!
Also hope Ms Celina is doing better as well. If you speak to her please give her my love and let her know she's in our thoughts and hearts.
I really loved this video and you're helping me learn with every one I watch. You definitely know your stuff, thank you soooo much! x
Omg you tell everything , every single detail .thats great and informative ♥️♥️♥️
Your a girl after my own heart... nails, yarn, Harry Potter, Labyrinth.... love... love... love...
Rebecca Hill Lol just what I was thinking!
Saaame!! Haha 😂
Yay! Nerds unite! I completely get what you're saying about not storing files etc for clients. That makes a ton of sense. But the thought of all that stuff going into the landfill gives me the heebies. I think manufacturers need to step up now and make these items fully recyclable for nail techs. I have no idea if its doable, but it should be. Any chance you could tell me what eyeshadow(s) you're wearing in this video? ;D
I hear you. Here's a great link for a place that helps recycle salon waste. greencirclesalons.com/ And I am wearing several colors from the HUDA BEAUTY Desert Dusk Eyeshadow Palette. 😀
I wondered about this same thing with all the waste. Thanks for asking.
Wow! Awesome video! I'm here fm your recent visit and tea with Suzi! New sub and I'm really looking forward to bingeing on your past videos and seeing your new ones!💜
I love your videos. Ever thought about setting up your online academy?
What kind of tools would you use with people who have diseases such as diabetes. Or any other chronic disease that involves blood circulation?
Omg I love Labyrinth- even my 10 yrs old daughter loves it . Good taste
Great info! And Omgsh I loved getting to know you a little more!
Great video! Thank you for all your informative previous videos. They're so helpful!😊x
Hello, I just found your channel and plan to watch all your vids, I’m new to doing my own. At the end you asked for questions no matter how basic, so here goes mine! My gel top coat started peeling from the free edge, I’m wondering what might have caused this? I capped my free edge, but, some ran underneath my nail, so that I can understand, as it bugged me and it popped up, but so far another has peeled. Gel over dip powder was my procedure. Thank you so much, you’re very, very helpful and super easy to follow and grasp because of your thoroughness! I look forward to your series!
Absolutely love your labyrinth pop funkos love ludo I grew up with the movie to & I am absolutely obsessed with Harry Potter too.
Love your videos, they are so very informative! This is minor, but for the sake of accuracy: nail lamp wattage (and lightbulb wattage) is the power consumption, not a measure of the light level emitted. Your reasoning is still on track though; together, more individual LEDs will consume more power than fewer LEDs, therefore have a combined higher wattage. This also explains why household LED lightbulbs have a lower wattage but still emit the same level of light as a higher watt incandescent or compact fluorescent bulb. 🙂
That is true but in nail industry terms when shopping for lamps manufacturers have used wattage as a way to show potency. We should really have lamps that have lumen ratings but instead everything is generically listed in Watts and in a way is meant to indicate how powerful of a lamp it is even though wattage normally only refers to power consumption. Unfortunately people who don't know all that will rely just on wattage when shopping for lamps much like they do RPMs on e-files even though that doesn't really dictate potential. So as a general rule it's safe to operate under the assumption that more Watts on the package means more UV light and increased curing strength. Glad you're liking the series!
hmmmm I dream Of 85c Files....... Quality Files here in Australia ..... usually around $2.50 AU not US EACH lol
Are nail services also a bit more expensive in general?
Me too....I'm in Canada and they're not cheap!😉
Hopefully this will Be covered eventually but I’ll ask anyway. I do my own nails at home, I want to add tips. Can I add tips then do gel polish without adding a builder? Also, is there a such thing as switching color too often? I’ve found myself switching every week just because I have tons of colors and like to switch my color.
Thank you!!!!
Yes we will cover tips soon. Short answer, no in 99% of cases you cannot just use gel polish over tips. And yes you can definitely overdo it. I recommend leaving any color on or at least 10-14 days at a time. Changing more often than that means you are more likely going to thin out your nails and cause damage.
The Nail Hub thank you!!! Can you recommend some brand name led lamps? I have a red carpet one, causing curing issues. Would like a better quality one! Just for me at home so nothing salon quality but when I google so many come up from “cheap” sites and I’m not sure what’s good quality or not
The Kokoist one I use is really great. It's the Kokoist Infinity.
Would you be able to suggest a good dust extracting system? I am having a heck of a time finding something that works good and actually sucks up all the dust! I am so over all the gel dust!!! I can’t take it. Thanks for any information and btw I love your videos.
Hey Liz! great video! Additional question on keeping your implements closed but not enclosed completely in something. What about when you clean your implements and use those sterilization pouches? Are these not supposed to be used?
Those small lamps, I have a pink one, I only use it for freezing the gel when I do art work but then I use my big lamp to cure the set FULLY.
Thank you so much for taking time to gather questions and answering us 😍💓💟💓🌸 Great Nail Fundamentals Q&H well answered 😍😉😊💟💓🌸
Good job!
Great video x I’ve learnt so much - thank you soooo much
Yes swiss cheese effect with my top coat i couldnt figure out how to explain this to anyone thank u for explaining this!
You spoke of incompatible products. Is there a universal gel basecoat and topcoat you recommend ?
Not sure if this really exists as a manufacturer of a universal gel base coat would have to test every gel on the market for compatibility. But there are some that play nicer than others. Are you a DIYer or a professional? That way I can recommend things you can actually buy. :)
Aw thank you !! Yes, i am a DIYer:)
Thank you, well done
not about nails, but your make up is flawless, its mesmerizing
#3 I honestly I don't know which companies started first. For LeChat has a product line called "Gelee", base on the "Dipping System" where you use "resin" and "dipping powder". Star Nail International have a line called "AcryGel UV Gel", where you combine gel and acrylic powders.
The Labyrinth is THE BEST
I love that you're a David Bowie fan!!!
Hi Liz ! I recently changed to gelish gel polishes vs the cheaper collections on amazon.. do you recommend gelish ? Also I wonder if I can use my $30 LED lamp vs getting a more expensive lamp . What don you think? What other brands do you recommend ?
Love this video, very informative, I’ve just subscribed...keep them coming 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼💖💖 Thankyou
Labyrinth is my favorite movie! I also watch the repeatedly! 😁❤️
Hi Liz, thank you for doing these amazing videos, i have started following your tips, tricks and education and have had great success. Can you do a desk/chair setup video? and can you tell us about how to avoid back/neck pain?
I have a question, after drilling and filing I brush off the dust. When I wipe the nail before gel base coat or builder gel do I cleanse the nail or just use a dry lint free pad?
Hi! I discovered your channel not long ago and I'm really enjoying all your videos. So I recently bought a 27 watt lamp and so far I've used it 3x and seems to be ok. I'm only doing my own nails with regular gel polish. Nothing too fancy. Since it's only 27W and you suggest 36+ should I just cute a little longer to get a better manicure?
Thanks!!!!
Wattage really doesn't tell you how much UV light is being emitted. My guess is even if you cure it longer it may not fully activate the photoinitiators in the gel and you won't get a full cure. With lamps you get what you pay for 100%. But it's hard to say just based on wattage. Curing gel properly comes down to the amount of UV light, the range of UV light, and also the formula of the gel.
Hi Liz, again great tutorial! You speak so clearly and concisely.i to lived in Arizona before moving back to Australia, hubby's Australian. What part do you live in if I may ask, I lived in Mesa. Also do find any issues using gel in that climate?I know acrylic can be hard to use sometimes in that heat. Cheers from Melbourne Australia
🌺🐨
Great make gel runnier but with air conditioning it's less of an issue. Gel that's too cold can get thicker as well. Australia is beautiful! Hi from AZ!
Another question when applying gel polish over Acrylic or builder gel nails do you have to apply base coat to the nail?
#900 phone voice 😜🤣 hope you're feeling better! Great video.
😂🤣 haha
I use gel polish, also i've tried the dipping acrylic, my hands are in perm solution and water all most all the time. Can apply the dipping acrylic over the gel nail polish? Something that will make my nails polish stay on longer. Thank you
Loved this video. Thank you so much.
#4 China Glaze their gel polishes have a base built in. On that note what about gel colors that cure "tack free". Eg. YN "Mission Control" gel paints & Crystal Nail "Royal Gel"
Hi, thanks for all your awesome videos. I have a question regarding accidentally cutting a client. We’ve all done it and im sure it will happen again even to the best of us. So...if you cut a clients cuticle and it bleeds the tiniest bit, do you tell your client you can’t proceed the service and send the home/leave?
I haven't seen Labyrinth since I introduced my 24 yr old to it YEARS ago. I need to pull it out and show it to my younger 2. Dobby is FREE!!!! hehe In NC we have to have dirty and clean implement boxes. And the school I went to, it got drilled into your head from day 1 to have a clean and dirty implement box. I keep some of mine in those cheap plastic pencil boxes, so I can at the very least sanitize the box too. I have a few repeat manicure clients, I do store their files, blocks and a few other things, and they are people that are Germaphobes or had gotten an infection or fungus from a not so clean salon. I use 180 too for practically everything. In school we were told to not accept clients with open sores, some conditions, rashes, etc on their hands, feet or head.
What light would you recommend for builder gels.
Hi, I just subscribed and have learned lots about the lamps and more. I’m licensed in hair and nails. I have 36 watt UV not LED., from Cosmoprof here in Ontario and good so far except slow timing. Is LED faster curing time?. I only do Gels and never tried Acrylic so far. I want to get one high powered lamp and which one is that and also cost affordability. My lamp was $130.00 professionally. You deserve thumbs up and I don’t understand how people gave you thumbs down and 7.👍🏻💕
Hi Liz love u so much I saw ur aal videos fundamental also its very very helpful .I have one question about base coat that once I applied base coat and by mistaken I apply wrong color I got remind that it's wrong color so I wipe out with alcohol but after that I feel base coat adhesion is no there so I again apply base coat than apply color I want to know what to do in that condition if we apply wrong color or something we forgot just after base coat?
Omg love love laberthyn totally memorized n Dobby is sooooo cute
Thanks Liz
I grew up with labyrinth!!!!! Love love love!!
I love you so much and have watched a gazillion of your videos
Totally agree on gel-acrylic And 3in1 gel polishes..... It doesn't work well
also, what color lipstick is this?? i looove it! lol
Hi Liz! hope you are well! cannot express enough how great your videos are. Thank you for taking the time and sharing.
One of the many things i learned from this video is that when a wound has been made, you can use hydrogen peroxide+neosporen or styptic. Is there anything else beside these 3 +bandaids that a nail tec should have in there "EHBO"-kit?
Looking forward to your next video's and hope to be able to meet you in person one day!
kind regards!
Thanks Mei! Every nail tech should have a bio hazard kit in their desk. I will discuss this more in an upcoming safety video. You should def have rubber gloves (nitrile is great because they don't cause latex allergies), stiptyc, and "blood spill clean up" supplies. Cuts can happen so being prepared is key. I will cover this very soon.
Thank you for responding and looking forward to it! Have a fantastic day!
@The Nail Hub What is your Alcohol to Acetone ratio? Do you have a specific ratio or do you "eyeball" it? Thanks!
Hi please watch my video on making gel cleanser. I go through this in detail.
Can you tell me if thetes a difference between he'll and poly-gel? I know that "gels" come in various thickness but is the term gel just short for poly-gel or are they 2 different things?
How, when, and why did you become a Certified Nail Tech? I'm a graphic designer and I would to do this as a side job or design products even. Thanks!
I really like this video and your make up
Most of my polishes are 3-in-1, but I used one as colour only for this manicure. My base, colour, and top coats are all from different brands. I wiped the inhibition layer using isopropyl alcohol after base coat, my last colour coat, and the top coats (my matte and shiny top coats are no wipe, but I wiped anyway. lol). I also lightly shake all bottles and roll for about 20-30 seconds. This has been the longest I've worn a gel manicure at nearly 10 days. However, one of my matte top coats did chip at the free edge (I used two different brands). Does any one have any suggestions as to why this occurred???
Also, thank you very much, Liz!!. The Nail Fundamentals have helped me tremendously!. These were really great questions. May you consider doing Q&A videos every couple of months if possible.
Chipping usually is from the gel either being to rigid for whats underneath or it is because it is not adhered to what's underneath.
@@TheNailHub oohhh... ok. I'll buff the polish before applying the matte top for my next manicure. Thank you!.