Hard gel is a hybrid combination of acrylic and gel. The strength of the acrylic and flexibility of gel make it a great combination that is durable and long lasting.
Acrylic powder is combined with gel, no monomer liquid is needed (the acrylic activating liquid) as the gel replaces this. It is cured like gel polish, which sets the product. There is no mixing of product, as the acrylic and gel is ready mixed in a tube, and like acrylic hard gel can be backfilled, so no need to remove at each appointment, just file, prep and fill as per manufacturer instructions.
It is quite thick; a solution (a bit like putty) is used as a ‘slip’ to mould the gel into position of the nail plate. Only one application is required, the trickiest part is getting the right amount and not over moulding, too much moulding can create air pockets, which can lead to cracking. Once it is evenly over the nail plate it is cured under a lamp.