My first set of gel nails

[JohnDaleswife]

I just got my first set of gel nails the other day at my local vietnamese nail salon where I go regularly. They cost me $30 for a full set. The usual acrylic ones cost $25. They didn't do anything different what so ever except use a gel powder and a gel clear coat on the top. Not sure if they are worth an extra $5 for a full set or not.

I guess the supplies could cost more. Not sure.

 

[happily single]

Did you need to place your hands under a "lamp" after each coat? if so that sets the gel powder and makes them last longer.

 

[*pixie*]

True gel is a gel, not "gel powder". More than likely, they put the usual acrylic on, but then did a gel top coat, and called it a set of gel nails. They are notorious for doing this.

 

[JohnDaleswife]

Is was a type of gel powder. I know for a fact it was not acrylic because I know what they keep their acrylic in and it was a totally different jar/substance. But it was not a true gel to begin with. The only time I put my hands under a light was at the end when I was letting them dry. I was thinking that I should have been doing some type of light/lamp, but I also knew I am at a discount vietnamese place. I mean, they look good, and they seem real sturdy, which I need. But I don't know if they are worth an extra $5 for a full set or $3 for a fill-in just yet.

 

[ShariVT]

real gel nails need to be under the light after each coat. I have never seen gel powder and would suspect you are only getting a gel top coat. I have had gel nails for over 10 years and I think they are worth every penny.

 

[*pixie*]

real gel nails need to be under the light after each coat. I have never seen gel powder and would suspect you are only getting a gel top coat. I have had gel nails for over 10 years and I think they are worth every penny.

This. Gel powder is an oxymoron, gel is gel and powder is powder. It may have been a different jar/substance, but it wasn't gel. Most likely acrylic cut with something else. I wouldn't form an opinion on gel nails based on this experience. As to whether it's worth it, probably not, it's not really gel.

 

[CookieandOatmeal]

I get a gel manicure every two weeks and they are definitely worth it. No chips at all. Definitely worth $30 including tip.