Caution when curing Clear Calgel and Color Calgel

Both the Clear and Color Calgel contain photo-initiators which causes the gel to cure and harden upon exposure to UV.

Why the gel will not cure if the application is too thin

When the application of the gel is too thin, the amount of photo-initiators will be insufficient to complete the curing process. This is usually the reason why the gel does not harden even after placing the nails under the UV lamp for a long time. You may experience the same outcome with either the Clear Calgel or Color Calgel. This occurs particularly when applying Color Calgel with strong, clear colors, which may give the impression that applying a small amount (and therefore a thin layer) is adequate.

Why the gel will not cure if the application is too thick

A similar outcome is expected in the opposite situation, or when the application of the gel is too thick. This happens only with Color Calgel.
When the gel coating is too thick, the pigment in the gel blocks the UV light from reaching the photo-initiators at the bottom of the layer and fully curing the gel. While the top of the gel layer may harden, the bottom of the coating does not. In this situation, the Color Calgel separates into 2 layers: an uneven surface that hardens, under which is a layer of partially cured or uncured gel. The coating will not properly adhere to the natural nail, and may cause the gel to lift or peel.

With Color Calgel, it is necessary to apply a coating with sufficient thickness that still allows some transparency. In doing so, the UV light will cure the gel properly. To achieve full color, it is recommended to apply thin layers of Color Calgel 2 or even 3 times.
Additionally, when applying Calgel in an environment where there is much moisture or oil, use the method called ‘wipe and apply.’ This means that each nail must be wiped clean with Calguard and dried, immediately followed by the gel application, and repeating this process one nail at a time for all 10 fingers. The method ensures the best application of Calgel without any moisture or oil adhering to the nail plate.

Storing Calgel

Both the Clear Calgel and Color Calgel cure and harden when exposed to UV light. For this reason the gel comes in black jars to shut out the UV light; however, the gel will chemically react to either direct or reflected light, and begins the curing process in as little as few seconds under exposure to the sun’s UVA. Make sure to store the gel container in a dark, cool place. When using the gel, do not place the container under or close to the UV lamp.