You've probably wondered many times what the difference is between these three products, which have similar properties and uses. We're going to help you solve the mystery. But first, here's a clue on how to recognise an oily nail: Usually, people with oily skin also tend to have an oily nail surface. For people with a normal nail surface, buffing the nail and applying Nail Prep (nail degreaser) may be enough. On the market we find several options: acid-free Primer, acid Primer, Nail prep, and Bonder. We're going to explain what each one is and when they're applied so you can clearly see the difference.
Primer
- Acid-free Primer: this is a liquid used to degrease and prepare the nail surface. A small amount of the product should be applied to the middle of the nail and spread out to the free edge. The product won't dry completely if we apply too much, and this can cause whatever product we apply afterwards — acrylic, gel or polyacryl gel — to lift. The nail surface should become completely matte once the product dries. There's no need to clean the nail after applying the primer. This product should only be applied to the natural nail. It's advisable to avoid contact with the skin, as the primer can cause an allergic reaction. At seenaowell.com you can find this product as Base One Nail Primer.
- Acid Primer: This primer is suitable for acrylic nails. It contains a high percentage of methacrylic acid. It's therefore a strong component, and only a small amount should be applied to the natural nail surface. As the product penetrates the nail, it forms micro-pores on the surface that help the acrylic grip the natural nail better. It's not advisable to use this product when applying gel polish.
Nail prep
- Nail prep: This is a product that degreases, cleans and removes oil from the nail surface before carrying out any treatment on it. It's acid-free and prepares the nail in seconds, with no need to clean it after application. This product closes the nail's pores after buffing, leaving it matte. It doesn't affect the nail's own pH and is recommended for the best results when performing a gel polish service. Using it over several consecutive services will help minimise the bubbles that oily nails can create in our nail work. At seenaowell.com you can find this product as Nail Degreaser.
Bonder
- Bonder: This is a UV gel base applied directly to the natural nail. This product is a 2-in-1 product that acts as both primer and gel base. Bonder is acid-free, which increases gel adhesion. A small amount of the product is applied after buffing the natural nail, and the product is cured under the UV lamp for 1 minute. Once hands are removed from the lamp, there's no need to clean the nail with any product.
