The Truth About Gel Nails: What No One Tells You (Until It’s Too Late)

Let’s be real, gel nails are the holy grail of manis. Glossy? Check. Chip-free for weeks? Check. The power to make you feel like you’ve got your life together even when you’re in your pyjamas at 3PM? Triple check. But while gel nails might look flawless, there are a few sneaky truths no one tells you until you’re halfway through a set wondering why your fingers feel like they’re being microwaved.

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As a professional nail artist, I’ve seen it all—and I’m here to give you the lowdown on the stuff your friends, your nail tech, and even TikTok might’ve left out. Let’s get into it.

So… What 

Is

 a Heat Spike?

If you’ve ever experienced a mini panic under the nail lamp, like suddenly your nail bed’s on FIRE, congratulations, you’ve met the infamous heat spike.

A heat spike is a sudden, intense warming sensation (low-key burn) that happens when gel, especially builder gel or hard gel, cures under the lamp. It feels a bit like your nail is having a meltdown but don’t worry, it’s more science than sabotage.

What Causes It?

It’s all down to chemistry. When gel is curing under a UV or LED lamp, a reaction called polymerisation occurs. Basically, all the little molecules in your gel start linking up to form a solid. This chemical reaction creates heat, and if the product is applied too thickly, or your natural nails are thin or sensitive, that heat can build up fast. More product doesn’t necessarily equal better nails, it just means you’re more likely to feel like your fingertips are in a toaster.

Is It Bad for Your Nails?

Okay, let’s clear this up. One or two heat spikes? Annoying, yes. Dangerous? Not necessarily. But repeated exposure to intense heat during curing can potentially cause damage, especially if:

• Your natural nails are already weak or over-filed
• You’re using super thick layers of gel
• You’re forcing yourself to keep your hand in the lamp even when it’s clearly saying “Help me!”

The golden rule? If it hurts, take it out.

How to Avoid the Dreaded Spike

The good news is: you can prevent it. Here’s how:

• Thin layers are your best friend. Think pancakes, not bricks.
• Use a low-heat or soft-cure setting if your lamp has one.
• Flash cure your nails. Pop them in the lamp for 2–3 seconds, then pull them out, give it a breather, and go back in to finish the cure. Ensure you still cure for the correct time to avoid under curing.
• Tell your nail tech! A good nail tech will know exactly how to adjust the process to suit your nails. Don’t suffer in silence, this isn’t the Hunger Games.

Since we’re being honest, here are a few other things that don’t get mentioned often but should:

You’ll develop a sixth sense for when your gel is about to lift.

One moment you’re in love with your mani, the next you’re fixated on that tiny corner lifting on your index finger like it’s a full-blown crisis. Don’t pick it. I repeat. Do not pick it. Book in for a fix or gently file it down until you can get to your nail tech.

Cuticle oil is not optional.

If you’re investing in gels but skipping the cuticle oil, you’re basically buying designer shoes and walking through mud. Keep those nails and surrounding skin hydrated, and your mani will last way longer. I’ve listed a few of my favourites below:

Shop here

You cant remove gel with regular nail varnish remover.

I can’t tell you how many people have messaged me in a panic like, “I’ve been scrubbing for 40 minutes and it’s not budging.” That’s because gel polish needs soaking in acetone and a little patience. Wrap it, don’t rip it!

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You might fall into a never-ending cycle.

One gel mani turns into another, and before you know it, your natural nails haven’t seen the light of day in six months. No shame here—it’s me, I’m you—but don’t forget to give your nails a rest every now and then if they’re feeling weak.

Final Thoughts (And a Little Reassurance)

Gel nails are amazing, and when done right, they’re safe, beautiful, and super satisfying. But they do come with a few quirks, like the occasional heat spike.

So if you’ve ever flinched under the lamp, picked off a gel set, or walked out of the salon with a silent tear from a rogue file, trust me, you are not alone.

Tell me your gel nail horror stories, heat spike moments, or questions in the comments. And if this helped you feel more confident about your next gel appointment, send it to your nail-obsessed bestie, they deserve to know the truth too.

#GelNails #Nails #NailHacks #Beauty