Builder gels are popular for their durability and ability to create beautiful nail enhancements, but one challenge professionals encounter during curing is “heat spikes.” This brief, intense heat can be uncomfortable for clients, but with the right techniques, it can be minimised or eliminated. Here’s what causes heat spikes, and how to manage them for a more comfortable curing experience.
A “heat spike” is a sudden, intense warmth some clients feel as builder gel hardens under a UV or LED lamp. The warmth is caused by polymerization—the reaction that makes the gel solidify. Builder gels are thicker and denser than other gels, which means they can heat up faster and more intensely, especially under stronger lamps.
Heat spikes aren’t random. They occur due to factors related to the product, the lamp, and the client. Here are a few causes:
Most UV/LED lamps have a low-heat mode that slows down the curing process and reduces heat. Lower settings allow the gel to cure gradually, lessening the chance of a heat spike. Be sure to check your lamp’s settings to make curing as comfortable as possible.
Thin layers cure more gently than thick ones, making a noticeable difference in comfort. Applying the gel in thinner coats reduces the heat reaction, making it less likely for clients to feel an intense warmth. High-quality builder gels work well in thin applications, providing durability without the discomfort.
Encourage clients to ease their hands into the lamp gradually, instead of placing them all the way under at once. This gradual exposure reduces sudden heat buildup. If a client feels any warmth, they can pull their hand back slightly to slow the process. This tip is simple but can greatly improve comfort.
