Should you use prep & primer with your Japanese/Korean Gels

When it comes to Korean and Japanese gels, the question of whether or not to use a prep or primer can be a tricky one. Most of their products claim that no primer is needed, but is that always the case? Let's explore when you should consider using primer.

Let's first talk about Japanese gels. Japanese gels have slowly gained popularity for their soft gels with easy soak off. Most Japanese gel systems are based on the principle of no prep or primer, relying on their base coat to secure that bond between your nails and their products. 

However, the reality is that not all nails are the same, and not all Japanese gel products work seamlessly for everyone. Many individuals often see lifting near the cuticle area or at the tip of the nail. This can be frustrating, especially when you expect your gel manicure to last.

To address the occasional lifting issue with Japanese gels, I've come to conclude that with a little bit of primer it will help with this issue. Primer acts as a bonding agent, ensuring that the gel adheres firmly to the natural nail. By applying primer, you can enhance the retention of your Japanese gel manicure.

However, it's essential to note that when you introduce primer into the equation, it can extend the soak-off time for your soft gels.

Now with the rise of Korean gels, the use of prep and primer can vary widely depending on the brand and product you choose. While some Korean gel brands offer their own prep and primer solutions, many also follow the Japanese gel system, emphasizing the "no prep/primer" approach.

What sets Korean gels apart is the diversity in their retention capabilities. Different brands may behave differently on your nails, and what works for one may not work for another. For example, I've tested the Dgel Winnie the Pooh base on myself and I will say that it perform excellently without a primer. While using Fgel's base I will say that it might need a bit of extra help with lifting (separating) from the tip of the nails.

And then there's Izemi, a brand that stands out for its remarkable strength, almost akin to hard gels. With Izemi, you get the best of both worlds—strength and durability. Izemi is a popular soft gel and the gel is made for minimal nail bed damage and no heat spike.

So, the big question is: should you use primer with your Korean and Japanese gels?

The answer is, it DEPENDS. Your decision should be guided by your individual experience and the results you observe.

If you find that you or your clients frequently experience lifting issues with certain gel products, introducing a bit of primer into your routine can be a game-changer. The primary goal here is to minimize lifting and enhance the longevity of your manicure. A well-applied primer can make a noticeable difference in achieving this. On the other hand, if lifting isn't a common issue for you or your clients, there may be no need to add an extra step to your gel application process. Some people have naturally unique chemistry that allows them to skip the primer without problems.

Choosing the Right Primer

If you decide to use a primer, it's crucial to select one that is compatible with gels. Not all primers are created equal, and using the wrong one can lead to issues with adhesion and durability. Some well-regarded gel primers that I use daily is Ugly Duckly (for professionals) and Apres, which I trust for their reliability.

So the decision to use a prep or primer with Korean and Japanese gels ultimately comes down to your specific needs of you or your clients. If you find that lifting is a recurring problem, don't hesitate to give primer a try. However, be prepared for slightly longer soak-off times. Remember that the goal is to have beautiful, long-lasting nails, and a bit of experimentation might be necessary to find the perfect formula for you. Good luck.