The next generation of GEL POLISH

Nail expert, cosmetic chemist & international judge, VITALY SOLOMONOFF, shares why he believes cream gel polish will elevate the nail sector by reducing allergy risks

Gelish Cream Gel Palette in Neon & On & On £19.99 + VAT www.gelishmorgantaylor.co.uk

For the past two decades, the nail industry has enjoyed a revolutionary innovation that was introduced in the mid-2000s: gel polish. Despite some of its drawbacks, gel polish remains at the top of the list for nearly every nail company worldwide, due to its practicality, ease of application and client preference.

However, as with any innovation, there is always room for improvement. Laboratories around the globe have been working tirelessly to overcome the limitations of traditional gel products, such as runniness, the risk of skin contact, allergic reactions and challenges with achieving precise aesthetic results. Brands such as NSI and Gelish have stepped up to the plate, introducing gel polish-style formulas that mark the dawn of an exciting era for coloured nail products.

A revolution in packaging & texture

A striking example of this innovation comes courtesy of Gelish. The brand has launched four Cream Gel Palettes, each featuring six nail shades. The packaging is sophisticated, resembling compact powder or blush cases, presenting a visual treat that instantly elevates the product’s appeal. Opening one of these palettes, you’ll notice the product’s unusual waxy texture, characterised by extremely high viscosity and intense colour saturation. For application, a flat, resilient brush is used: a departure from traditional bottle-and-brush systems. This approach offers a fresh, streamlined experience for nail professionals.

Transformative application

The first reaction from professionals using this paste-like cream gel polish has been nothing short of delight. The product works effortlessly, offering a seamless application experience that ticks lots of boxes for the modern nail professional.

Key features include:

• Workability. The gel’s self-levelling properties allow for a flawless finish with minimal effort.

• Precision in detail. Technicians can create perfect lines near the cuticle area, as well as intricate designs, without worrying about runniness or mess on the skin.

• Highly pigmented colours. One coat often suffices, saving both time and product.

• Exceptional adhesion. The gel adheres beautifully, ensuring long-lasting results.

Gelish Cream Gel Palettes in Pretty Pastels, Act Natural and Getting Reddy £19.99 + VAT each www.gelishmorgantaylor.co.uk

“The product works effortlessly, offering a seamless application experience that ticks lots of boxes for the modern nail professional.”

These qualities make this product particularly appealing – not only for routine salon use, but for high-pressure scenarios like nail art competitions.

Big benefits

One standout feature is how easy it is to create pink & white designs. The product allows for fast and precise formation of beautifully curved smile lines, which can prove a challenge – even for seasoned nail artists.

Beyond aesthetics, the cream gel polishes enable professionals to build impeccable nail architecture, without causing unwanted thickness around the cuticles or edges of the nail plate. This significantly reduces the risk of lifting, ensuring a durable and professional finish.

Even more impressive is the absence of heat spikes during curing: a common issue with traditional gels. This makes the product suitable for use on even the thinnest or most damaged nails, offering clients unparalleled comfort during the application process.

A solution for allergy sufferers?

Perhaps the most groundbreaking aspect of cream gel polishes is their hypoallergenic properties. CleanestiQ Labs, a Philadelphia-based company, conducted small-scale studies with volunteers who had confirmed allergies to traditional gel polishes. The results? Zero reported cases of allergic reactions.

Expert endorsements

Serge Korchagin, a renowned nail expert, technologist & international nail judge, shared his thoughts after testing the product at the Paragon Salon in Philadelphia. “The product is flawless and easy to work with, and I want to keep using it over and over. I’m thrilled to be at the forefront of a new era of excellent, controllable products. The cream gel coverage is incredibly light yet durable, and we haven’t witnessed issues like onycholysis (nail lifting), even when using the product during pedicures.”

NSI Cream Gel Polish Palettes £24.95 + VAT each www.nsinails.co.uk

Serge Korchagin

Other nail technicians have echoed this sentiment, describing their experience with the cream gel palettes as ‘addictive’ and praising the product’s transformative impact on their work.

Final thoughts

Gel pastes and creams signal a bright future for the nail industry. Thanks to technological advancements in formulation and consistency, these products meet exceptional standards of quality, durability and client safety.

However, as with any new product, there’s always room for development. For example, larger packaging options would cater to high-volume salons, while an expanded colour range would offer even more creative possibilities for nail techs worldwide.

The introduction of gel pastes and creams has redefined what nail products can achieve. By addressing long-standing challenges and exceeding expectations in performance, aesthetics and safety, these products are not just innovations: they are solutions that elevate the nail experience for professionals and clients alike.

As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear: we are witnessing the beginning of a new chapter in nailcare: one that prioritises artistry, health and innovation in equal measure.

www.cleanestiq.com @cleanestiq & @vitalysolomonoff