Gel nail polish is a special varnish formula that is cured under ultraviolet lamps. Advocates of gel nail polish manicures assert that the gel formulas last at least two weeks without chipping, making them much more practical than regular manicures. Similarly, the gels are thought to be gentler than other overlays such as false tips and acrylics, which helps maintain strong and healthy natural nails. Most salons charge significantly more for gel nail polish applications, and many clients also pay to have the treatment removed.

A professional manicurist is usually required to apply gel nail polish, for a few reasons. First, the special gels are typically only available for purchase by salons or licensed nail technicians. Second, each layer of polish must be cured underneath an ultraviolet lamp to ensure the manicure develops its defining hardness and durability. The actual application is far less complex than the application of acrylic nails: gel nail polish is painted on the nail with a small brush much like traditional varnish.

Removing gel polish can be a do-it-yourself project or left to salon professionals. In salons, special removal wraps are soaked in removing liquid and placed over each nail. People removing their gel polish at home can place a nail polish remover-soaked cotton ball on each nail and secure it to the finger tip with foil. Sometimes, lingering traces of polish need to be removed with a nail file.

Many people consider gel nail polish to be much more convenient than traditional manicures or false nails. Delayed chipping is the most popular virtue of gel polishes, since consumers can enjoy several weeks of well-kept nails without any upkeep or fillings. Gel polish can be applied over natural nails as well as artificial ones, so just about anyone can receive this treatment. Furthermore, people who grow tired of their manicure before it chips and is removed can simply paint over the gel nail polish with normal nail varnish. Another big bonus of gel nails is that the natural nails do not have to be filed down, and removal is often gentle due to soak-off varieties of gel polish.

Despite all of the positives, there are also some negative aspects of gel nail polish. The procedure is less common than more traditional manicure methods, so not all salons are equipped to offer gel polishes. Initial costs of gel manicures are also higher than regular manicures or acrylic applications, and people who choose to have the gel removed professionally will probably have to pay another fee. People who are wary of ultraviolet exposure from the curing lamps should avoid gel nail polish manicures.