HELP / FAQS

If you have a question, please consult our list of frequently asked questions before reaching out for assistance.

Frequently asked questionsGentle Gels / HEMA-Free

HOW LONG DOES A MANICURE USING GENTLE GELS LAST?

Our Hema-free polishes can last up to 2 weeks.

DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS OR ADVICE ON HOW TO MAKE YOUR HEMA-FREE MANICURE LAST LONGER?

Nail preparation is everything for a long-lasting mani. Ensure to follow the guidelines and make sure the nail bed is oil-free before applying product. The key to a long-lasting HEMA-free manicure is also following our Gentle Gels system – ensure you are using Gentle Gels Base & Top Coats and cure each layer for a full 60 seconds.

DOES THIS NEW LAUNCH MEAN I SHOULD BE WORRIED ABOUT USING HEMA PRODUCTS?

Not necessarily! Unless you have a confirmed allergy to HEMA, there's no immediate need to switch your entire line-up to HEMA-free products. If you are a trained nail technician, you can visit our PRO section on the website to find all your essentials.

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE GENTLE GELS VS NON HEMA-FREE?

Choosing Gentle Gels means going for a gentler touch in your at-home nail care routine. They're perfect for sensitive skin or anyone who prefers a gentler approach. With their milder formula, you get great looking nails without sacrificing comfort or performance.

WHY HAS IT TAKEN SO LONG FOR 14 DAY MANI TO LAUNCH A HEMA-FREE RANGE?

Because we're all about quality and safety - we've been ensuring that we don’t compromise on anything, from colours to quality and wanted to keep the same level of excellence while making it safer for everyone. So, rest assured, we've put in the work to provide you with a nail care solution you can trust!

SHOULD I CONVERT MY WHOLE SYSTEM TO GENTLE GELS?

For those looking for a gentler Hema-free option for at-home nail care, we recommend Gentle Gels. If you are a professional and your client has no confirmed HEMA allergy, there is no need to convert your whole system to Gentle Gels.

WHY SHOULD I BUY GENTLE GELS?

If you have a confirmed HEMA allergy, Gentle Gels is a perfect tested option to go for. We also have 83 new Gentle Gels colours that you might not be able to resist! If you have sensitive and brittle nails – Gentle Gels is the way to go.

HOW DO I KNOW GENTLE GELS ARE FOR ME?

If you have an allergy or sensitivity towards HEMA we recommend using our Gentle Gels collection.

CAN I USE GENTLE GELS WITH NON-HEMA-FREE PRODUCTS?

Our Gentle Gels polishes are designed to work as a system, meaning they should only be used with Gentle Gels HEMA-free Base & Top Coats for optimal results. Mixing them with non-HEMA-free products could affect the performance and longevity of your manicure.

ARE GENTLE GELS SUITED TO ALL CUSTOMERS?

Yes, Gentle Gels are suitable for all customers, specifically those who have a confirmed sensitivity or allergy to HEMA.

SHOULD I PREP THE NAILS ANY DIFFERENTLY WHEN USING GENTLE GELS COLLECTION?

Prepping your nails for Gentle Gels is no different to what you are used to with our other collections:

  • Wash hands with warm water and liquid soap.
  • Ensure nails are oil-free to maximise polish longevity.
  • Prep cuticles using the Steel Cuticle Pusher and Cuticle Nipper.
  • Buff nails with the 7-way buffer, following each step.
  • Ensure nails are dry and free from dust before applying polish.
CAN I STILL BUY YOUR REGULAR PRO GEL POLISH?

Yes, you can still purchase our regular Pro Gel Polish. Just keep in mind, it's primarily designed for professional use. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully for the best results.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN YOUR PRO GEL POLISH AND GENTLE GELS POLISH?

The main difference between Pro Gel polish and Gentle Gels polish is that Gentle Gels do not contain HEMA and Pro collection does. It is advised that you follow our Pro Application Guides to obtain the best possible results.

I BOUGHT YOUR PRO GEL POLISH PREVIOUSLY AND I’M NOTA PRO, I’M WORRIED I SHOULDN'T BE USING IT?

No need to worry, Pro Gel Polish is still safe to use as long as you do not have confirmed allergies or sensitivities to HEMA. Ensure to follow our Pro Application Guides to use the Pro Collection safely at home.

I’M NOT A PRO NAIL TECH BUT I WANT TO BUY PRO COLLECTION PRODUCTS, CAN I? WHAT IS YOUR GUIDANCE?

Absolutely! While our Pro Gel Polishes are formulated with HEMA and primarily intended for professional use, you can still achieve great results at home by following our guidelineshere.

DOES YOUR NEW GENTLE GELS COLLECTION STILL WORK WITH THE SAME UV/LED LAMP?

Yes, it does! Our new Gentle Gels Collection still works perfectly fine with the UV/LED lamp. Ensure to cure each layer for 60 seconds for best results.

IS THE CONSISTENCY OF THE GENTLE GELS HEMA-FREE BASE/TOP COAT DIFFERENT VS OTHER BASE AND TOP COATS?

No, it is the same.

WHAT EXISTING PRODUCTS FROM 14 DAY MANI ARE COMPATIBLE WITH THE GENTLE GELS COLLECTION?

Gentle Gels is a NEW system, so it's essential to pair the Gentle Gels Collection with Gentle Gels Top and Base Coats for the best results. Gentle Gels shouldn't be mixed with Builder Gels. However, you can still use our popularMiracle Gel Removeralongside the
Gentle Gels Collection.

IS IT A NON-WIPE FORMULA?

Yes, it is. Once you cure your Gentle Gels Top Coat for 60 seconds, you are good to go!

DOES THE HEMA-FREE TOP COAT HAVE A SHINY FINISH?

Yes! Enjoy a beautiful glossy finish with our NEW Gentle Gels HEMA-Free Top Coat.

WHAT IS THE CURING TIME?

With our HEMA-free Gentle Gels system the curing time is 60 seconds per layer.

Ingredients

I WANT A PROFESSIONAL QUALITY GEL MANI, BUT FIND SALONS TOO EXPENSIVE. IS THE AT-HOME OPTION QUITE COMPLICATED/SAFE? 

Much like dying your hair at home, 14 Day Mani was founded on the basis of providing an alternative solution to expensive salon treatments. With the rising cost of living, we are now even more aware people don't want to compromise on looking and feeling good. Our at professional kits are designed to give you the option. As nail applications can take practice to get right and to ensure you do it correctly and safely, we have created expert guides and videos to provide you with all the tools you need, with minimal risk.

You will find our pro application and removal guides here: https://14daymanicure.co.uk/pages/application_guides

WHAT ARE ACRYLATES AND CAN THEY CAUSE A REACTION?

In simple terms, Acrylates such as HEMA and Methyl Acrylate are a group of chemicals used to bond gel polish, so will be found across all gel nail polishes.There has been recent reports that Acrylates such as HEMA in high levels (over 35%) can cause skin irritation, but in most cases, people will never develop any allergy to Acrylates. However, the risks of any irritation or reaction increase when the wrong application practice takes place. As is this case with any topical cosmetic or skincare product, if you experience any reaction or irritation, stop using the product. Professor Catriona Ryan, Dermatologist said to 14 Day Mani“Allergic contact dermatitis to acrylates is very rare- I have only seen one case of allergic contact dermatitis to gel nails,oncein my career“ .

ARE YOUR PRODUCTS HEMA FREE? 

We offer both so you have the choice! Our NEW Gentle Gels Collection is completely HEMA-free and is safe for at-home use.

HEMA is a widely used Acrylate in gel polishes. Currently our Pro Collection products contain on average 17% HEMA, which is below the recommended upper limit of 35% (to avoid any irritation or reaction). Our professionally written application guides ensure safe application, and following these carefully is key. Always remember to remove excess gel polish from the skin before curing. 

Gel polishes with HEMA and other Acrylates will continue to be widely used for professional application, particularly in salons.

CAN YOUR GEL POLISHES HARM MY NAILS?

Damage to your nails would only occur through misuse of tools or not adhering to our step-by-step pro application guides. It is particularly important to follow the recommended curing times and to remove your gel polish correctly and as instructed. If you do experience any reaction irritation, discontinue use. If you are unsure if you are getting your application right, you can always bring our nail polishes in to your local salon for professional application. For any further questions, please contactcustomercare@14daymani.com.

WHERE ARE YOUR PRODUCTS MADE?

We proudly make the majority of our products in China and Korea, with some of the industries leading nail innovators. Contrary to reports, China is one of the most popular places to manufacture high quality nail polish and some of the biggest nail brands and household names produce here (we know who, but we can't say!). Labelling China a bad place to manufacture is simply not accurate or fair. It's about the vetting process of working with suppliers and outside cosmetic regulators to ensure the products are high quality, meet correct trading standards and most of all perform as you expect them to.

*Note: Cosmetics made in China are not required to be tested on animals. Only cosmetics that are imported and sold in physical stores in mainland China are required to be tested on animals according to China’s animal testing laws. 14 Day Mani is certified Cruelty Free.

WHY DO YOU SAY ‘FOR PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY’?

If a gel nail polish contains HEMA it is required by regulation to be labelled ‘For Professional Use Only’. This is why we provide training videos by nail tech professionals to show you how to correctly apply and avoid any irritation. Our Hema free collection is launching very soon and will be suitable for everyone who is looking for an easy, at-home mani solution.

UV/LED LAMPS

ARE UV LAMPS SAFE?

The most important step when applying gel nail polish is to ensure the product is correctly cured (or set), by using a UV OR LED/UV lamp that is over 34W and of course to always follow the manufacturer’s step-by-step professional  instructions. 14 Day Manicures LED/UV lamp has a 36w UV(for a combined 54w), so it is at a professional level for safe use. 

When it comes to using the UV OR LED/UV  lamp itself, it’s important to remember quite how brief a time your hands are spending under the light, during the application process. Recent studies on the impact of UV exposure via nail lamps were based on daily exposure of 20 minutes - that’s over 3000x more than you spend when actually applying gel polish (usually just 30-60 seconds per layer, so 2-4 minutes per manicure). UV and LED lamps are accredited as low risk. 

While you in fact get more UV exposure simply walking around outside every day, a simple way to add a strong layer of protection is to apply a good quality, high factor SPF ahead of doing your nails (just avoid the nail bed itself); daily use of SPF is now advised to everyone whether they’re gel polish users or not!

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LED AND UV LAMPS?

Both LED and UV lamps are designed to cure your gel polish quickly and effectively for a chip-free and long lasting mani. Contrary to common misconception, both LED and UV nail lamps emit UV wavelengths and work in very much the same way. 

The key difference is that UV lamps emit a broader spectrum of wavelengths, while LED lamps emit a narrower and more targeted number of wavelengths, which accelerates the drying process. LED lamps also don’t require you to change bulbs. 

The 14 Day Mani lamp has been designed to be a hybrid UV LED lamp, which means it is more cost effective than the standalone and more expensive LED lamps, but most importantly it allows for faster drying time, meaning less time spent under the lamp.  It also eradicates the need to change the bulb.

WHAT LAMP IS RECOMMENDED FOR YOUR GEL POLISHES?

We recommend only using the 14 Day Mani lamps as they are designed to be used with our products. In the rare case of an allergic reaction, this can be caused by the skin being in contact with uncured gel, rather than the product itself. Therefore it is extremely important to use the correct lamp to make sure the gel is cured properly.

I PREFER TO GO TO THE SALON FOR MY GEL MANI - CAN I STILL USE 14 DAY MANI?

Absolutely! Our professional-grade range of gel polishes are widely used by nail techs themselves. Simply bring your shades of choice (along with base and top coat) to your salon and ask your nail professional to apply them for you. It also means you don’t have to worry about sharing your shade with anyone else!

Shipping & Returns

WHAT IS THE DELIVERY TIME?

We aim to ship next day if orders are placed before 3pm Mon-Fri. Please allow up to 3-4 working days during busy periods. As soon as your order is completed you will receive an email confirmation and your order will be on its way to its new home.

HOW MUCH DOES SHIPPING COST?

Our standard shipping rates is €5.99 flat rate or FREE on orders over €80 (Ireland only).

We also offer delivery to most of Europe (including FREE Delivery) - for more info about International Delivery,check out our Shipping page.

WHAT IS YOUR RETURNS POLICY?

If you are not completely satisfied with your 14 DAY MANICURE purchase for any reason, we will happily accept a return within 30 days of receipt and issue a refund to your original payment method, excluding shipping and handling. Products must be returned in new condition. Please email info@14daymanicure.ie prior to shipping and use our Irish address linked here

DO YOU SHIP OUTSIDE IRELAND AND THE UK?

We ship to almost everywhere in Europe! Unfortunately Jersey and some other areas are currently not available but we’re working on it.

Gel Application

HOW LONG DOES GEL POLISH LAST?

When applied properly, 14 Day Mani Gel Polish lasts up to 3 weeks with no chipping or lifting! Watch our step-by-step tutorial hereto help avoid lifting and help longevity for up to 3-4 weeks.

HOW DO I REMOVE GEL POLISH?

Check out our Application Guides pageto watch our safe methods for removing you gel polish. We know its tempting, but don’t pick!

HOW MANY COATS OF COLOUR DO I NEED TO APPLY?

We recommend one to two coats polish depending on the colour. Some sheer shades may need three coats.

HOW MUCH TIME DOES IT TAKE FOR CURING?

We recommend curing your 14 Day Mani gel polish for 60 seconds for each coat and 60 seconds for the final top coat using our 54W UV/LED Lamp.

WHAT IS BEST WAY TO STORE GEL POLISH?

We recommend you store 14 Day Mani gel polish in a dry, cool area. Gel polish is heat and light sensitive, so if it's exposed to high temperatures there is a possibility that your gel polish could get clumsy and cure in the bottle. Top Tip: Always be sure to place your gel polish, base or top coat behind your UV/LED lamp when applying your polishes, this can cause it to cure within the bottle.

Orders

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY ORDER WAS PLACED?

Once your order has been placed you will receive a confirmation email that your email is ‘processing”. This means we’re preparing your fabulous order! Once we have completed your order, a confirmation email will be sent to the email address associated with your account which indicates your order is on its way to you.

Please note: If you’re paying with PayPal, it will be sent to the email address associated with your PayPal account, which may be different.

CAN I MODIFY AN ORDER AFTER IT’S BEEN PLACED?

If you contact us 15 minutes after the order has been placed we will do our best to amend any shipment details for you. Contact us on customercare@14daymani.com

CAN I CHANGE MY DELIVERY ADDRESS ONCE I PLACE AN ORDER?

Please ensure you put a correct delivery address when placing your order, as shipping labels are being printed within 24 hours. If you made a mistake and need to amend your delivery address, please emaildepot43@dpd.iewith your tracking number and new address. Please note we cannot guarantee that the change will be made.

CAN I CANCEL MY ORDER?

We cannot guarantee that we will be able to do this but we will try our best to check the status of your order and liaise with the warehouse team. If you placed your order within 24 hours and you would like to cancel it, please contact us by emailing at customercare@14daymani.com.

HOW DO I USE MY VOUCHER OR GIFT CARD?

If you’ve received an e-gift card you will see a long code next to your receipt on your email. You can use this code at the checkout to receive money off your chosen products - lucky you!