The Ultimate Guide to Solid Nail Glue Gel: Application, Removal, and Benefits of GELLEN
For DIY nail enthusiasts, the struggle with traditional liquid nail glues is a tale as old as time.
From messy spills and sticky fingers to the dreaded air bubbles that compromise the longevity of a manicure, liquid adhesives have long been the standard despite their flaws.
However, a new trend is taking over social media feeds and beauty routines alike: Solid Nail Glue Gel.
As seen in recent viral demonstrations featuring the GELLEN Solid Nail Glue Gel, this innovative product promises to revolutionize how we apply false nail tips. This guide explores everything you need to know about solid nail glue, from its unique consistency and application method to the surprisingly satisfying removal process.
What is Solid Nail Glue Gel?
Solid nail glue gel is a hybrid product that combines the adhesive properties of nail glue with the moldable texture of a thick hard gel. Unlike traditional liquid glues that run and drip, solid glue gelāsuch as the GELLEN variety featured in 15g containersāhas a putty-like consistency.
Key Characteristics Visible in Usage
- Non-Flowing Texture: As demonstrated, you can handle the glue with your fingers (or a tool) without it sticking instantly or running down your cuticles. It holds its shape until pressed.
- Repositionable: Because it requires a UV or LED lamp to cure (harden), you have infinite time to adjust the nail tip before locking it in place.
- Gap Filling: The thick viscosity allows the glue to fill the gap between your natural nail and the false tip perfectly, eliminating air bubbles which are the leading cause of fungal infections and pop-offs.
The Application Process: How It Works
Based on the visual demonstration of the GELLEN product, the application process is distinct from standard glue. It is more akin to applying a press-on nail with acrylic but without the harsh chemical smell or time pressure.
1. Preparation
Start with clean, prepped nails. The cuticle area should be pushed back and the nail plate buffed to remove shine. This ensures the gel adheres to the keratin of the nail rather than natural oils.
2. Scooping the Product
Using a tool or the nail tip itself, scoop a small bead of the solid glue. The GELLEN jar contains 15g (0.53fl.oz) of product, which is substantial given that you only need a pea-sized amount per nail. The gel is clear and looks like a small diamond or crystal before application.
3. Press and Position
Place the bead of glue inside the well of the false nail tip. Press the tip onto your natural nail starting from the cuticle area and slowly pushing down toward the free edge. This action spreads the solid gel evenly across the nail plate.
- Visual Note: In the video, you can see the gel spreading smoothly without oozing out the sides excessively. If it does, you can easily wipe it away before curing because it hasn’t hardened yet.
4. Curing
The packaging explicitly states “UV/LED Lamp Needed.” This is a critical distinction. The glue will not dry on its own. You must place your hand under a UV/LED nail lamp (usually for 60-90 seconds) to polymerize the gel. This chemical reaction turns the soft putty into a rock-hard bond.
The Removal Revolution: Safe and Satisfying
One of the most captivating aspects of the viral video is the removal process. Traditional nail glue often requires soaking in pure acetone for 15-20 minutes, which can be drying and damaging to the skin and nail plate. The demonstration offers a glimpse into a different, potentially gentler removal method.
Using the “Spray and Peel” Technique
The video shows a liquid being sprayed onto the nail where the glue meets the cuticle. While the specific contents of the spray aren’t labeled in the clip, this is typically a mixture of rubbing alcohol and oil, or a specialized glue de-bonder.
- The Spray: A liquid is applied to loosen the bond.
- The Lift: A metal cuticle pusher or flat tool is wedged gently under the solidified glue.
- The Peel: Instead of chipping away, the GELLEN glue is shown peeling off in one solid, rubbery piece.
This suggests that while the bond is strong, the rubberized nature of the gel allows for a cleaner removal that is less likely to shred the natural nail layers compared to brittle cyanoacrylate (Super Glue) based adhesives.
Analyzing the GELLEN Product Specs
When shopping for nail enhancements, the specifications on the packaging matter. Let’s break down the details found on the GELLEN Solid Nail Glue Gel jar.
15g / 0.53fl.oz Volume
A standard bottle of liquid nail glue is often 2g to 7g. A 15g jar of solid glue is significantly larger. Because the product is solid, there is zero wasteāyou use exactly what you need, and it doesn’t dry out inside the container as long as the lid is kept closed and away from sunlight.
UV/LED Lamp Needed
This requirement categorizes the product as a “soft gel” or “hard gel” adhesive. It means the product is photo-reactive.
- Pros: You get a salon-grade bond that can last 3-4 weeks.
- Cons: You cannot use this product on opaque press-on nails that light cannot penetrate. It is designed specifically for clear or semi-transparent “Soft Gel Tips” or “Full Cover Tips.”
Why Switch from Liquid to Solid Glue?
Based on the user experience shown, there are several compelling reasons to make the switch.
1. No More Air Bubbles
Air bubbles look unsightly (appearing as white spots under the nail) and create pockets where water can get trapped. The solid nature of this gel forces air out as you press down, creating a flawless, glass-like seal.
2. Durability and Flexibility
Solid glue gels usually cure with a slight flexibility. This acts as a shock absorber. If you hit your hand against a surface, the glue absorbs the impact rather than snapping, which keeps your extensions on longer.
3. User-Friendly for Beginners
Liquid glue sets in seconds. If you stick the nail on crooked, you are stuck with it. With solid gel, you can place the nail, look at it from different angles, fix it, and then cure it. This relieves the anxiety of “messing up” for DIY users.
Essential Tips for Success
To replicate the effortless results seen in the video, keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid Skin Contact: Before curing, ensure no gel is touching your skin. Curing gel on your skin can lead to contact dermatitis or allergies over time.
- Flash Cure: If you are struggling to hold the nail in place while putting your hand in the lamp, use a small handheld “flash cure” light to set the nail for 10 seconds, then do a full cure in the big lamp.
- Clear Tips Only: Remember, the light must reach the glue to harden it. Do not use this with solid colored plastic press-ons unless they are translucent.
Conclusion
The GELLEN Solid Nail Glue Gel represents a significant shift in home manicures, moving away from messy, brittle adhesives toward durable, salon-quality gel bonds. As the video demonstrates, the ability to mold the adhesive, cure it on command, and remove it cleanly offers a level of control that traditional glues simply cannot match. Whether you are a seasoned nail artist or a beginner looking for a “glimpse of the neon” salon look at home, solid nail glue is a tool worth adding to your kit.
By choosing a product that prioritizes ease of application and the health of the natural nail, you can enjoy long-lasting extensions that look professional and feel secure.