How to Keep Heat Spikes at Bay
Gel nails are widely loved for their longevity and glossy finish. However, there's an occasional yet significant concern that arises during the curing process - heat spikes. While most clients expect a relaxing experience, some unfortunately experience a burning sensation during gel curing.
What Causes Heat Spikes?
Gel nails naturally release heat during the curing process. Typically, the temperature reaches about 40°c/105°F, comparable to a hot tub's warmth. However, when the curing process's chemical reaction speeds up, the temperature can escalate rapidly. It can climb from 46°c/115°F, where clients begin to notice, up to a painful 65°c/150°F.
Gel educators highlight that heat spikes are a common concern among clients. This issue often arises when the nail technician is rushing the procedure. Some clients believe that "beauty is pain" and mistakenly consider the burning sensation as a normal part of the process.
The Science Behind Heat Spikes
The occurrence of heat spikes is rooted in the chemical reactions of the gel curing process. This heat release is an exothermic reaction, resulting from the formation of chemical bonds. Ideally, the release of this energy is gradual, causing no discomfort. However, if the energy releases too rapidly, it results in the painful spikes.
Different types of gels have varying susceptibilities to heat spikes. Soak-off gels, which form fewer bonds, tend to produce less heat compared to harder gels. Not all hard gels produce significant heat. Some hard gels use slower-reacting resins, leading to reduced heat generation. The choice of curing lamp also plays a crucial role. For instance, using a UV/LED lamp for a traditional UV gel product can intensify the heat released.
Furthermore, it’s important to use the correct nail lamp for curing products. An incorrect match can lead to rapid heat release. Over-filing is another common culprit behind heat spikes. Over-filing makes the nail bed hypersensitive, amplifying the heat sensation.
Solutions to Prevent Heat Spikes
Manufacturer’s System: Ensure you're using the entire system recommended by the manufacturer. This includes the correct base coat, gel color, top coat, and most importantly, the recommended lamp.
Reduced Filing: Take care to avoid over-filing the nails. The aim should be to remove the shine, not layers of the nail plate. If adhesion is poor with minimal filing, reassess your technique or product.
Thin Gel Application: Applying gel thinly reduces the number of molecules reacting, hence decreasing heat release. Trial and error will help in determining the ideal thickness for different gels.
Buffer Layer: Applying a softer gel against the nail plate before a harder gel can act as an insulating layer, reducing the heat sensation.
Client Communication: Before application, discuss with clients about their past experiences with gel nails. Inform them about potential heat sensations, especially if their nails are thin. Assure them that they can temporarily remove their hand from the lamp if the heat becomes uncomfortable.
While various workarounds like flash curing or tapping the client's nails are discussed on online platforms, they might not address the root cause. The focus should be on understanding and preventing the issue rather than finding temporary fixes. Avoid shortcuts and always prioritize client comfort and safety. In the event of a heat spike, it's vital to empathize with the client and explain the situation. Delve into the cause of the issue to prevent it from recurring with the other hand.