NIC Nail Technician Written ExamNail Technology ProceduresHard
A client has a full set of gel enhancements and wishes to change the color. The technician applies a new layer of gel polish directly over the existing filed and buffed gel enhancement. What is the most likely reason this approach might lead to premature chipping or peeling of the new gel polish?
- AA base coat specifically for gel polish was omitted.
- BThe new gel polish is incompatible with the underlying hard gel.
- CThe existing gel enhancement was not buffed sufficiently.
- DA dehydrator was not applied before the new gel polish.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. A base coat specifically for gel polish was omitted.
Even over an existing enhancement, a dedicated gel polish base coat is essential for proper adhesion of the color gel polish. It creates a sticky layer that grips the color, preventing chipping and peeling, regardless of the underlying product.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While compatibility can be an issue, most gel polishes adhere well to properly prepped hard gel with a base coat; the base coat is the missing link.
- C. Insufficient buffing can cause issues, but omitting the base coat is a more fundamental adhesion failure for gel polish.
- D. Dehydrators are primarily for natural nail adhesion, not typically required between an existing cured enhancement and new gel polish (though cleansing is).
Gel Polish Base Coat Function
The foundational layer of a gel polish application, designed to create a strong adhesive bond between the nail plate (or enhancement) and the colored gel polish.
- Formulated to grip the nail surface and the color gel.
- Prevents staining of the natural nail.
- Cures to a tacky layer, which helps the color adhere.
Memory trick: Base coat forgotten? Your color's adhesion is rotten!