Can You Paint Over Polygel Nails?

Polygel nails are incredibly popular because you get the benefits of beautiful gel nail polish and acrylics without the downsides.

The unfortunate part of polygel nails is that there aren’t a whole lot of colors to choose from, which leaves at-home manicurists asking the question - Can you paint over polygels?

The answer is yes; you can definitely paint over polygel nails, making them an incredibly adaptable and versatile choice for your next manicure.

Keep reading to find out which nail polishes work best over polygel nails and how to do it successfully.

How to Paint Polygel Nails: Two Ways

If you want to paint your polygel nails, you have two options: regular nail polish or gel polish. Both come with their pros and cons.

Before diving into how to paint polygel nails, let’s take a quick look at how you should prepare for the polish.

Follow this polygel nail technique:

• Prep the natural nail. First and foremost, you will want to prep your natural nails. Buff the surface, remove any oils and push the cuticles back.
• Apply a dehydrator/primer/gel base coat. Then, you will want to dehydrate the natural nail to allow for proper adhesion using a dehydrator, primer, or gel base coat.
• Apply nail tips or forms if using. If you want to create length like real nail technicians, use forms. They are durable and long-lasting, like acrylic nails.
• Apply the polygel, then cure. Take the time to ensure you’re satisfied with the thickness of your nails. Cure until they are entirely dried.
• Buff with a medium-grit nail file. You want to create a somewhat rough surface to help polish adhere.
• Choose between gel polishes and traditional polish, and follow the detailed instructions below!

Gel Polish/Gel Nails

Many people love gel nails because of their durability and sleek, glossy appearance.

Are you a part of the gel nails crowd? Then you will be glad to know you can apply gel polish on top of your polygel nails.

All you need to do is the following:

• Choose your desired color of gel polish.
• Apply the first coat on top of the polygel nails, then cure with a UV light.
• Apply a second coat to seal the color and strength, then cure once more.
• Apply a top coat to lock it in and enjoy your flawless “gel manicure.”

Don’t forget that you can also apply some lovely nail art on top of your new nails!

Regular Nail Polish

You can also use a regular nail polish that you would use on your natural nails.

The benefit of using traditional nail polish is that you aren’t “stuck” with a single color.

In fact, you can swap the shade of your nail polish every day if you wish!

That’s because nail polish remover will not compromise the stability of your polygel nails.

So, when you’re done with one color, simply swipe it off with nail polish remover and apply a new coat. (The same technique cannot be used for a gel coat!).

To use nail polish, do the following:

• Apply the top coat before you paint nail polish.
• Choose which nail color you want to apply to the nail plate.
• Apply nail polish on top of your poly gel fingernails.
• Apply another thin layer of polish.
• Wait for the wet polish to try, and enjoy!

Other Options to Decorate Polygel Nails

As mentioned previously, polygel nails don’t come in a whole lot of colors or “pizazz.”

But if you don’t want to paint polygel nails, don’t worry - there are a couple of other great choices to zhuzh up your nails and nail tips.

Nail Stamps

One of the perks of going to a nail salon, rather than doing artificial nails on your own, is the option for intricate designs and patterns. You know, the ones everyone goes gaga over on Instagram.

But these same great looks can be created right from home - and on top of your polygel polish!

Using nail stamps is simple. You will need regular polish and your chosen nail stamp pattern. Then, roll the design over your nails. Wait for it to dry, and seal it with a top coat gel.

Nail Stickers

The downside to stamps is that they can be a little messy, especially when you first learn how to do them. Is there a better option? You bet - nail stickers!

Nail stickers are just like any other kind of stickers you use. Simply find the stickers you like, pull them away from the page, and adhere them to your nail.

Then, file off and remove any “extras.”

The fun part about stickers is that they come in colors that cover the entire natural nail plate, or they can be a quirky and cute natural nail overlay instead.

So, decide whether you want to add small details or cover the entire nail.

Whichever one you decide on, make sure that you cover it with a regular or gel top coat to ensure it stays locked in.

FAQs

How long do polygel nails last?

If you apply your polygel nails properly, they can easily last up to four weeks. It’s more typical for them to last around three weeks, whether applied at home or by nail techs.

Is polygel good for your nails?

Polygel is notably one of the safer choices in the nail industry. That’s because no harsh chemicals are involved or released into the air, unlike other types of manicures like acrylics.

How to remove polygel nails?

The easiest way to remove polygel nails is to file away the top layer using a hand nail file. Then, soak the nails in acetone or wrap acetone-soaked cotton balls onto the nails.

The nails should quickly come off at this point. Ensure you apply cuticle oil or cream to your fingertips to hydrate them after using acetone products.