Why isn't my jelly hardening?

If your jelly isn't setting properly, it could be due to a number of different factors. Here are some common causes and how you can fix them:

1. Insufficient Curing Time

• The gel may need more time in the lamp to cure completely. Always follow the recommended curing time and make sure each layer gets enough time under the lamp.

2. Faulty lamp

• You are using a UV or LED lamp that is not compatible with the gel.
• The lamp may be too weak or too old so that it no longer provides enough light. We recommend changing the lamp often to ensure that it cures your products properly. A lamp usually loses its strength after about 8000 hours, and if you always have it on in standby mode, it can deteriorate faster. Change the lamp about once a year to be on the safe side.
• Use a lamp recommended by the gel manufacturer. Check the lamp's wattage and calibration.

3. Too thick layers

• If the gel is applied too thickly, the light may have difficulty penetrating and curing the entire layer. Apply thin, even layers of gel. It is better to apply several thin layers than one thick one.

6. Moisture, oil or dirt

• Moisture, oil or dirt on the nail can create a barrier that prevents the gel from curing properly. Make sure your nails are completely dry and clean before applying gel.
• Also, make sure that brushes and other accessories are dry and thoroughly cleaned before contact with the gel. Do not use cleaning products that contain oil as this can mix with the gel and cause it to not cure/attach properly. Also, do not use oil-based/moisturizing products on your hands at least 24 hours before applying nail material.

7. Improper storage

• If the jelly product has been stored in incorrect conditions, it may affect its effectiveness. Store jelly products in a cool, dark place according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• If the gel has been exposed to UV light before application, it may affect its curing ability. Keep gel products away from direct sunlight, UV/LED light and other strong light sources before use.

8. Viscosity and pigments

• Pigment-rich colors, such as those with high pigmentation, very dark, very light or bright colors, may be more difficult to cure. These colors may require thinner layers, longer time in the lamp and stronger UV watts.
• Products with higher viscosity may require longer time in the lamp and/or thinner layers for the light to be able to penetrate.

Please note! Before you start working with thermosetting plastics: Take a good training course that guarantees you get the knowledge you need. This is to ensure that you can handle these materials in a safe and gentle manner.

Jelly that has not been properly hardened can lead to allergies, so it is very important to always follow these precautions.

Summary:

If your gel is not curing properly, it can be due to several different factors. One of the most common causes is insufficient curing time. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and give each layer enough time under the lamp. Another possible cause is that the lamp used is not compatible with the gel. Lamps can become too weak over time, so it is a good idea to change them regularly. Preferably once a year, to ensure that it is working optimally. Incorrect application, such as too thick layers, can also lead to the light not penetrating and curing the entire layer. Therefore, it is better to apply several thin layers instead.

Clean and dry nails are essential. This is because moisture, oil or dirt can create a barrier that prevents the gel from adhering and curing properly. Brushes and other tools should also be dry and free of oil residue. Store gel products in a cool, dark place to avoid them losing their effectiveness. Also, keep them away from UV light before use.

Pigment-rich or viscous gels may require special handling. Such as thinner layers or longer curing times, as these are more difficult to cure. To ensure the correct and safe use of gel products, thorough training is recommended. It is important to be careful, as gels that do not cure completely can cause allergic reactions.