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South China Morning Post

Do these manicure trends offer a better alternative to gel nails? SNS and BIAB are popular techniques for creating a durable and glossy look – and may be safer too

The nail world is a wild one – one minute, it's all about intricate art and brash colours; the next, minimalist neutrals are in. But through every glitter craze and French tip revival, one hero has stood the test of time: the gel manicure. Gel has earned its reputation for that unbeatable, long-lasting shine and durability that laughs in the face of daily wear. But as the industry rolls out endless new formulas, one question is on everyone's mind: does gel still deserve to be on top, or is it finally time to let another contender wear the crown? The allure of gel manicures Gel polishes by brands such as Mylee currently dominate the market. Photo: Handout Advertisement Gel manicures have more than earned their place in the beauty hall of fame. Anna Parvatova, creative director at SNS Nails, emphasises that gel polish continues to dominate the market, largely thanks to its reputation for reliability. 'A few decades ago, gel emerged as an edgy alternative to traditional nail polish,' she notes. 'Beauty enthusiasts soon favoured it because it is more durable and less damaging to the nails than more traditional methods, among other advantages.' The promise of a chip-free finish that lasts up to three weeks, all while flaunting a high-gloss look, makes it clear why gel is still such a strong contender. The dark side of the shine Cally Gel UV & LED Soak-Off. Photo: Handout However, beneath all that shine lies a catch: the UV light-curing process. Though UV light might seem innocuous in small doses, frequent exposure can raise concerns about skin damage and a potential link to skin cancer. 'Some salons are turning to LED lights, which emit less UV radiation, but the risk, however reduced, still lingers,' professional manicurist and international nail educator Fran Méndez explains. Then there's the removal process. 'Letting nails soak in acetone isn't exactly a spa treatment; it's drying, and if removal isn't done right, natural nails can end up brittle and damaged,' she adds. What are the alternatives?