Using liquid latex is important especially when you do not want your manicure to be messy. This is a simple product that saves you from cleaning up the nail cuticles with gels or polishes. Thus, when you get the product, you may wonder asking, how to use liquid latex for nails.
Well, nothing is easier than applying liquid latex to nails. The process is simple when the formula of the latex is superb and the applicator is also the right one. However, you need to apply the liquid latex on the cuticles around your nails.
So, to know the entire process of using liquid latex and other information regarding the topic, bear with us till the end.
The Purpose of Using Liquid Latex for Nails
Undoubtedly, liquid latex serves a great purpose for nails. The latex formula acts as a protective coating around the cuticles of the nail beds temporarily.
From outer appearance, liquid latex may seem like other nail gels or polishes. But the truth is they come in the same container as regular nail polish. And their purpose is also different.
Nonetheless, the application method is regular and almost the same; except you are not supposed to apply them on nail beds but rather around the nail beds.
However, applying liquid latex before applying nail gel or nail polish makes the nails look sharp and beautiful. Very obvious that you don’t like the sight of your nails when you apply the gel over the cuticles as well.
But the truth is no one is that steady while applying nail polish or gel only on the nail beds. Messiness is a must. Also, not every one of us has that time as well. Thus, to make a clean manicure and make your nails beautifully done, liquid latex for nails is used.
Advantages of Liquid Latex
- Makes manicuring easier.
- Offers beautiful nails if done properly.
- Polishing nails become quicker.
- Painted nails also become smooth.
- Works as a barrier between your skin and nails.
- Cuticles become free of extra sloppy nail polishes or gels.
Disadvantages of Liquid Latex
- Many people are allergic to latex.
- Latex on the skin might cause a burning sensation.
- If the formula is not good, it will not work properly.
- When cured, wiping off the latex become tough.
- A thick layer takes time to cure.
How to Use Liquid Latex for Nails?
As we mentioned earlier, the process is very easy. Anyone can do it when she knows the steps properly. Liquid latex is also known as latex tape. However, the steps are given below.
Step – 1: Prepare Your Nails
This is the very first thing to do while applying liquid latex and nail polish. Manicuring is all about preparing your nails and the last thing is to apply nail polish.
Hence, file your nails and clean up around the nails and their cuticles properly. Make sure the nails are dry and clean before going to the next step.
Step – 2: Apply the Liquid Latex
In a nail polish container, the formula of liquid latex comes. It also contains a convenient applicator or brush. Now, with the brush, apply the latex on the cuticular or skin part around the nail.
There is no certain amount that is indicated to take for this purpose. The brush itself will take an amount and it depends on you whether you want to apply a thin layer or a thick layer.
The thin layer has some benefits as it cures quickly. Moreover, for simple nail art, the thin layer of liquid latex works well. Hence, while putting nails gel or stamping over it, you can apply a thin latex layer on the cuticles.
Again, for sponging your nails, the thick layer of latex will do great. Also, for other manicuring nail arts, the thick layer helps a lot though they also take more time to cure.
However, while applying make sure you properly cover the cuticular area without touching the nail beds. Apply latex around the nail beds of all your fingers.
Step – 3: Now, Do the Manicure
After applying the latex, it is time to be done with your manicures. Apply any nail art you want. Go with the process normally as you would go. Be messy as well since it is not going to be a problem.
You can adopt any creativity from painting nails to sponging and stamping, and also, you can add glitter. Just go with your favorite color and design for your nails.
Step – 4: Let the Nail Gel and Latex Cure
When you are done applying latex and then painting nails, it is time for curing. You can use a UV lamp for this purpose. Complete drying and curing are important in this step.
Otherwise, the paint of the nails will also come off along with the latex when you pull it. That situation would be way messier. Surely, you do not want such a situation.
Again, you can use LED lamps for curing purposes as well. Both devices are quick curer. However, LED lamps are way quicker since their bulbs have narrow wavelengths.
Step – 5: Lastly, Remove the Latex
Here comes the exciting part of this process which is removing the latex. This part is also very satisfying. Even it may take you to your school days when you happened to pour glue accidentally on your skin. And when it became dry, you loved peeling off the glue which satisfied your mind.
So, basically, this is the thing you need to do in this last step. Peeling latex will also give the same satisfaction. However, you can use tweezers to do this, or else you can simply use your fingers. After peeling off the latex, voila, you will get a smooth and clean manicure!
Learn How to use Liquid Latex For Nails:
What to Use Instead of Liquid Latex for Nails?
There are several alternatives that you can use instead of liquid latex. They are given below.
- Use cuticle oil, Vaseline, or cream. You can also use a similar type of product. These products keep the nail gel or polish off your skin. For having oil components, the gel does not get dry or stick to the skin, and later, you can easily wipe off the skin area. For applying oil or Vaseline on the cuticle, you better use a Q-tip.
- Moreover, you can also use Elmer’s glue instead of liquid latex. This glue is basically used for crafts.
- Again, you can use normal tape as well. Tape is always available in a home. However, using tape for this purpose is a bit time-consuming, since first you have to cut them into round pieces.
Can You Use Glue Instead of Liquid Latex for Nails?
You can definitely use glue instead of liquid latex for nails. In fact, it is the cheapest way. However, it is suggested to use Elmer’s glue as we have already mentioned.
This white substance is used in schools for learning crafts. However, you can use it instead of liquid latex following the same application method.
As an applicator, you can use Q-tip or a small paintbrush for kids. Again, if you have an old polish brush, it can also work. Nonetheless, make sure to clean and dry the brush before applying it.
Also, make sure you do not apply too much glue. Otherwise, it will take a while to dry. So, when the glue dries, you can use a cuticle stick to scrape it off. Again, you can simply peel off the glue using your fingers.
Here is Some Tips & Tricks to Use Liquid Latex for Nails:
Can You Use Liquid Latex under UV Light?
Well, yes you can take the applied liquid latex under the UV lamp for curing. It actually depends on you. Some people want to peel off the liquid latex after it dries normally. They do not really cure latex.
Again, some professionals suggest drying the liquid latex under UV light. It works either way. You just need to find which way works best.
Where to Buy Liquid Latex for Nails?
Liquid latex is available in any local store of beauty products. They are easily available and come in different price ranges. The range varies from brand to brand. So, go to any local beauty store near you and get liquid latex. You can also rely on online stores like Amazon and Walmart.
Learn How to Make Your Own Liquid Latex:
Final Thoughts
Painting nails is fun and also, an art. So, now that you know how to use liquid latex for nails, you can do it more creatively.
Your manicuring will be a lot easier and after peeling off the latex, your nails will look awesome! So, give yourself a break and grab liquid latex!
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