One way to start is with the LCN kit, which includes the light and samples of their gel, as well as a video (I think). This is THE LIGHT YOU HAVE TO HAVE (*see update info above though about the new LE light!), so even if you decide on a differant gel later, you will still use it with the LCN lamp (I know the manufacturers don't like it---but this lamp cannot be beat---not that I have found yet anyway! AND BESIDES THIS IS MY SITE AND MY OPINION!)
I use 3 of them at each station, 2 in front, one for each hand, and one on the left side of my L shaped station for repairs, overlapping clients, etc.
So now, if you buy any other light (or already have one) other than the LCN, I recommend curing the FIRST COAT OF GEL FOR TWICE AS LONG AS THEY (THAT PARTICULAR GEL LIGHT MANUFACTURER) TELL YOU TO! REALLY, THIS WILL MAKE A DRAMATIC IMPROVEMENT IN THAT PRODUCTS PERFORMANCE...TRY IT MY WAY FIRST PLEASE...THEN TRY THEIR WAY, if you are happy with their results then you have lost nothing but a little time, and I'd LOVE TO HEAR ABOUT ANY OTHER LAMPS ON THE MARKET ACTUALLY PERFORMING THE WAY THEY SHOULD (and not just for the full-set, I want to see continued good results 2-3-4 fills down the line!).
THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THESE OTHER LAMPS, THEY ARE JUST TOO SLOW FOR MY PATIENCE LEVEL, AND IN MY OPINION THEIR OWN INSTRUCTIONS ARE WRITTEN INCORRECTLY, which is why I say to cure for double the time they tell you to(especially the all-important 1st coat!)
When somebody else comes out w/ a lamp as good as the LCN I can't wait to be the first to try it. Hopefully some AMERICAN company will get on the ball and gives us a lamp as good as the LCN (made in germany). Anybody out there in manufacturer land listening?
UPDATE: LE (Light Elegance Gels in Oregon, USA)IS WORKING ON THIS VERY IDEA AS WE SPEAK!!!!KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED! Please hurry Jim!
As for gels, if you want something less expensive than the LCN gels, try the STAR Calcium Kapping gel (I use something similar to this that I private labe). THEY (mine and the star) have a differant consisitency than the LCN gels, which I personally happen to prefer, but others prefer the LCN or even IBD lines of gel, it's all a matter of individual preferance. LE has a 1 component that would be similar in consistency to the star and their 3 step system woulkd be similar to the LCN.
I can't TELL you which to choose, you have to experiment and decide for yopurself, all I can offer is my opinion and what I use---but that may not be the answer for you! Once you have the LCN light, you only have to buy individual containers of gel from the other companies, and not invest in another whole kit! (This is MY opinion, each nail tech must decide for themselves if this is the right methodology for them! Always consult the manufacturer of your specific product line for specific info.) Return to menu
