How Gel-X Saved My Career: A Nail Tech’s Guide to Working Safer and Smarter

How Gel-X Benefits Nail Techs: A Personal Insight

Have you ever thought about how Gel-X affects us nail techs? We often neglect the effects that different application types have on our own health and well-being as we work. I’m here to dive into the effects of Gel-X from a nail technician’s perspective. 

1) Respiratory Health: Breathing Easier with Gel-X

As I mentioned before, Gel-X has little to no fumes, making it much less harmful to your respiratory health. There is no detectable smell for the client and only a mild scent for the nail tech. There are also several things nail techs can do to protect their health and minimize the risk of future issues. 

Tip: Great ways to minimize fumes, whether you’re home-based or working in a salon:

  • Use a dust collector. 
  • Keep an air purifier near your workstation. 
  • Add plants to your nail space that are great at filtering air (such as spider plants or snake plants). 
  • Empty your nail trash regularly. 

2) Physical Health: Reducing Strain with Gel-X

Gel-X is much easier on your hands than acrylic. While it’s true that if you master acrylic application, you won’t need to file as much, acrylic still typically requires more use of the drill.  

Excessive use of the nail drill can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome due to the repetitive vibrations. Investing in a high-quality drill helps reduce these effects. When working with acrylic, drill use is more prolonged, for both shaping and removal. With Gel-X, there’s much less product to remove, so the process is faster and less physically taxing. 

3) Allergies: A Personal Experience with HEMA

Gel-X products are minimal and it’s much easier to find HEMA-free options compared to acrylic systems. Although there are now more HEMA-free acrylic options to explore, I no longer offer acrylic for several reasons outlined in this article. 

In 2023, I personally developed a severe HEMA allergy that nearly caused me to quit doing nails altogether. (Photo attached below, viewer discretion advised.) Because of this, I honed my skills with Gel-X and began focusing solely on perfecting its application and retention. This allergy made me question my whole career choice. I did tons of research to find out what could be causing this allergy and came to the conclusion that HEMA was the culprit. I gave myself time to recover and changed the way I do nails completely. I also researched ways I could protect myself in the future.

HEMA allergic reaction

4) Lifting & Greenies: Protecting the Natural Nail

One of the best things about Gel-X is that greenies are a rare sight. Lifting is unlikely, but even when it does happen, the way the natural nails are protected before applying the tips helps prevent damage or infection. 

I have a technique I use to ensure natural nails are protected. This way, even if a nail extension comes off, the natural nail remains healthy. If you’d like to learn more tips for protecting your clients’ natural nails, follow us on Instagram @okeibeautiful. We’ll soon be offering valuable resources for nail techs, so make sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay updated. 

5) Versatility: Multiple Uses for Gel-X Products

Gel-X is incredibly versatile. The same products can be used across various services. For example, the full-cover tips used in Gel-X can also be used for press-ons. Simply buff the surface of the Gel-X tip, apply a base coat, and design your nail—it’s an easy way to expand your service offerings.  

You can also use the builder gel (used as “glue” in Gel-X) to perform structured manicures. This keeps your product use consistent and your techniques streamlined. Lastly, Gel-X tips make great practice nails. I personally use the less popular sizes to test new designs—this helps reduce waste and makes full use of the tips. 

Final Thoughts

Long story short: Gel-X offers many amazing benefits. It helps preserve your health and allows you to work longer in this career compared to acrylics. I’ve had a great experience with Gel-X and continue learning how to improve client retention with this method. You can also find all products I use on my Amazon storefront. You’ll find protective equipment along with other items that will help you do your job as a nail tech more seamlessly. 

  If you learned something from this post, leave a comment, I’d love to hear your feedback. 

  Stay beautiful and stay blessed. 

– Keila Cuartas, Owner, Okei Beautiful