FAQ Gel iQ

What do I need to apply Gel iQ?
Gel iQ (our gel nail polish ) is a treatment in 5 easy steps. Step 1. Gel iQ Pre-Cleanser, Step 2. Gel iQ Base Coat, Step 3. Gel iQ preferred colour, Step 4. Gel iQ Top Coat and Step 5. Gel iQ High Shine Cleanser. The starter kit contains everything you need, apart from your preferred colour shade, which you choose separately, and remover products.

Preparations before/after treatment:
While applying products, protect the surface where you are sitting with a towel. Make sure there is plenty of ventilation as you work. Ensure you have good lighting. If you still have polish or traces of it on your nails, remove it with Depend (super quick) blue nail polish remover. Before you apply Gel iQ, file your nails to the preferred length and shape. Have cotton buds handy to be able to remove unwanted gel from the skin easily using the Pre-Cleanser. In case of spillage on the lamp, bottle or top, clean with Pre-Cleanser and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Do I need to prepare my natural nails before applying Gel iQ?
No, you do not have to prepare your natural nails by buffing them or applying a strong primer, which can affect the condition of your nails and should therefore be avoided. Gel iQ requires only light cleaning with a mild Pre-Cleanser prior to applying the gel products.

How long does it take for Gel iQ to cure in the UV/LED lamp?
The UV/LED lamp has been specially developed and has a curing time of 30 seconds for each stage of gel application. The symbiosis between lamp and gel produces an evening-out effect, where any ridges disappear during curing, even if the gel has not been applied evenly. Always cure for 30 seconds between each coat using the UV/LED lamp. A shorter curing time will result in under-cured material and consequently an increased risk of allergy and a less durable finish.

Why do my fingers burn when I put them in the UV/LED lamp?
The lamp generates heat and may feel slightly hotter if you have thin nails or apply too thick a coat of gel to the nail. This abates after treatment.

How often can I apply Gel iQ?
Gel iQ lasts for up to two weeks, and so we recommend not changing colour more frequently than this. If you do, the effect on your nails is more severe, which may cause a deterioration in the condition of your natural nails. We also recommend that after removal you wait a week before applying Gel iQ again and check your nails to ensure that they are in good condition. If not, then wait until they are in good condition again. If you want to change colour more frequently, we suggest that you use Depend 7day Hybrid Polish or Depend O2 Minilac instead.

What are the risks of allergies?
Gel iQ contains ingredients that have the potential to cause an allergic reaction in sensitive persons. Do not use this product If you have ever experienced any reaction after use of UV/LED-cured nail products. If you are allergic to acrylates, as these products may cause an allergic reaction. If your cuticles are split or damaged, etc. or if your nails are in poor condition (thin, dry or split). Or If you bite your nails or have short nails, where the tip of your nail (the top) ends below the skin of your fingertips. Stop using this product if you develop redness or itching. If you experience a smarting pain, itching or swelling during the treatment, remove uncured material using a cotton wool pad moistened with Gel iQ Pre-Cleanser, and then wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If the problems persist, contact a doctor for advice. If skin irritation or rash occurs after treatment: Get medical advice/attention. Read through and follow all the instructions for use and the safety information carefully before treatment.

What do I do if I get Gel iQ polish on skin or cuticles?
Avoid contact with skin. Remove unwanted gel from skin or cuticles carefully using Gel iQ Pre-Cleanser on a cotton bud. Once curing is complete, wash skin carefully with soap and water to remove any incidental contamination.

Can I use a regular nail polish between Gel iQ Base and Gel iQ Top?
No, never combine Gel iQ Base or Top with regular nail polish. Gel iQ products are specially developed for curing with a UV/LED lamp in five steps.

Can I combine Gel iQ with other brands during use?
Never combine Gel iQ with other brands during use. NB! If you have gel left over or an LED lamp from Depend’s previous UV/LED gel range GelLack, these can be used alongside Gel iQ products.

Can I use Gel iQ on my toenails?
Yes, for toenails, use the same application techniques and removal methods as for fingernails.

Storing Gel iQ at home
Gel iQ is sensitive to light. Take care, therefore, to screw the top on immediately after use. Wipe the thread on the neck of the bottle, so there is less risk that the bottle will be difficult to open next time you use it.

How to remove Depend Gel iQ
Depending on your nail type and the condition of your nails, you may or may not find it difficult to remove the gel. We have therefore opted to use two different removal methods. We recommend, in the first instance, using method 1 to remove the gel. This method works for most nail types. Otherwise we recommend method 2.

How to remove Depend Gel iQ with method 1
Metod 1 with Gel iQ Remover Oil removes Gel iQ gently using vegetable oil. For this method to work, there must be a certain amount of growth between the cuticle and the gel, which you would naturally have if the gel has been on for two weeks. This method is very gentle on the nail and cuticle, and the special chemistry of this product produces a reaction between the remover oil, the water, and the gel. See the Instructions for method 1.

How to remove Depend Gel iQ with method 2
Depending on your nail type and the condition of your nails, you may or may not find it difficult to remove the gel. Method 1 using remover oil will work in most cases, but in some instances, for example if you have extremely dry nails, you may need to use method 2, Gel iQ Remover and Gel iQ Removal Wraps Foil. See the Instructions for method 2.