Gel manicures use a special gel polish containing polymers, which harden (or cure) under a UV light.
A manicurist applies a gel base coat, then nails are placed under the UV lamp to dry for 30 to 60 seconds. The manicurist then applies the gel color polish, after which the UV lamp is again utilized Lastly, a gel top coat is applied, and the nails are again dried under the UV lamp. Gel nails require no additional drying time and last, on average, up to two weeks without chipping. The safest way to remove gel manicures is at the salon.