How to: Ultimate Chrome and Unicorn App
Chrome, unicorn, and mermaid pigments are absolute salon must-haves! They create magical effects your clients will dream of in an instant.
But… the perfect chrome effect isn't always as simple as 1-2-3. Are you encountering problems, such as the pigment not settling properly, the finish being grainy, or the chrome starting to chip after a few days?
Don't worry! We've put together a handy step-by-step plan to solve these problems.
Problem 1: Chrome pigment doesn't stick well
Application : Chrome Pigment should be applied last, after building up the nail (for example, with T-Gel/ BIAB , Gel Polish , Builder Gel , or Acrygel ) and after the topcoat . Always use a Top No Wipe product without a sticky layer.
Buffing: This means applying light pressure and rubbing it over the surface. Buff the pigment into the topcoat immediately after it emerges from the lamp, while it's still warm. Heat helps the pigment create static and "stick" to the topcoat. Buffing can be done with a makeup applicator or your bare fingertip, using the warmth of your skin.
Extra tip: Make sure the topcoat hasn't cooled too much or been touched. If necessary, cleanse with TS Cleanser and buff the pigment in again with a bare finger for extra warmth.
Problem 2: Finish becomes grainy and not reflective
Cause: This can happen if the pigment is polished into a sticky layer instead of a smooth Top No Wipe. The pigment's micro-glitters must lie flat for the desired mirror effect, and this is only possible with a smooth top coat without a sticky layer.
Solution: Remove the sticky layer from the underlying product with TS Cleanser. Apply Top No Wipe and let it cure. Reapply the Chrome Pigment.
Problem 3: Visible streaks & bumps
Reason: The top coat was applied unevenly or too thinly. Every imperfection in the application is emphasized and magnified by the Chrome Pigment.
Solution: Check the reflection of your work light on the surface of the Top Coat before curing. Make sure the entire surface is even and smooth before placing your hand under the light.
Problem 4: Chrome chips after a few days
Reason: The Chrome Pigment wasn't properly sealed after application and finishing. Because it's a "dry" product between two layers of Top Coat, you'll need to perform three additional steps to properly seal the pigment and prevent chipping.
- Step 1: File the free edge of the nail with a 220/240 grit file or a 180 grit buffer file . Remove excess dust and pigment with a soft brush. Use the TS Fan Brush to sweep pigment from the cuticles and sidewalls.
- Step 2: Apply TS (Ultra)Bond to the free edge, not to the surface. Also apply Top No Wipe to the free edge. Apply this very thinly, about 2-5mm, to the free edge, without any raised bumps or noses. Cure for 15-30 seconds.
- Step 3: Finish the entire nail with Top No Wipe and cure it completely for a long-lasting, chip-free result of up to 4 weeks.
Want to see how I do it?
Then check out my Instagram reel for a step-by-step demonstration!