Chemistry in the studio – but without lab coats

You know the moment: gel applied, hand under the lamp – done! But what exactly happens there?

In this article, we explain the polymerization of UV gel – in a way that is easy to understand for anyone who wants to know a little more.

What exactly is polymerization?

Polymerization is a chemical process in which many small molecules (monomers) combine to form long chains (polymers). This is exactly what happens when gel cures on the nail.

What exactly happens during the polymerization of UV gel?

When you apply UV gel and cure it under the lamp, a complex chemical process takes place in just a few seconds. This process transforms a liquid or gel-like substance into a hard, stable plastic – the polymer.

The three main components in UV gel:

1. Monomers
   → Small molecules that can link together to form chains.
   (e.g. urethane acrylate, methacrylate compounds)

2. Oligomers
   → Shorter molecular chains that make the gel more stable.

3. Photoinitiators
   → These start the reaction as soon as they are exposed to UV or LED light.

This is how polymerization works – step by step:

1. Light hits the gel
   The UV or LED lamp emits light at a specific wavelength (e.g. 365–405 nm).

2. Photoinitiators absorb light
   These molecules are light-sensitive. They are activated by light.

3. Start of radical formation
   The activated photoinitiators release so-called free radicals – extremely reactive molecules.

4. Chain reaction begins
   These radicals attack the double bonds of the monomers – the monomers “hook” together to form long chains.

5. Networking is created
   The chains also connect crosswise to form a three-dimensional network = solid, hardened gel .

Why does it sometimes get warm during this process?

The reaction is exothermic – that means:
Heat is released when the molecules bond.
Especially with thicker layers or highly reactive gels, this can lead to a heat spike.

Good to know:

• UV and LED gels differ in their photoinitiators → therefore they require different lamp types.

• If the lamp is too weak or old, the gel will not harden completely → this can lead to lifting or allergies.

• The dispersion layer gel (“sweat layer”) is a byproduct of polymerization – it contains incompletely reacted molecules and is removed after curing.

In short:

This is how it works in the nail salon:

1. The gel contains monomers and photoinitiators.

2. The UV or LED lamp activates the photoinitiator.

3. This triggers the reaction of the monomers.

4. The gel hardens – a solid polymer network is formed.

Result: A shiny, firm nail surface that lasts!

That's why it sometimes burns.

The resulting reaction is exothermic – heat is released . With a thick application or on sensitive nails, this can cause a brief burning sensation.

Tips for relieving burning sensations:

• Working in thin layers

• Use high-quality gels with controlled heat development.

• If necessary: ​​briefly remove from the lamp and then cure again.

And what about safety?

• Modern gels are highly developed and tested

• Important: Good ventilation in the studio

• Gloves or dust extraction help with filing work.

Discover UV gel for professional nail salons now.