What is a Japanese Gel Manicure?

Nail technicians in Japan use a different type of gel than what is typically found in nail salons in other countries. Generally, these gels are made in Japan and sold in pots.

The pot and brush method was the original application method for gel polish, but the American market quickly introduced it into standard nail polish bottles for faster application, while Japanese nail artists retained this method.

The main difference in the formula is that Japanese gel is usually solvent-free, meaning it's not technically a "gel polish" as we know it.

Gel polish is a hybrid gel composed of resin and polish-like ingredients, most often solvents. Solvents are like acetone: they are very powerful and evaporate quickly, which can lead to faster chipping, change the consistency of the gel over time, and dry out the nails.
Solvents are not bad, however, gels that don't contain them are more durable.
For this reason (and others we'll discuss in a moment), Japanese gel is generally more durable and considered healthier for the nails.

Is a Japanese manicure good for your nails?

A Japanese manicure could be more beneficial for nails than a classic gel manicure.

Most Japanese gel nail systems do not require a dehydrator before applying the base coat. This is a particular advantage for sensitive nails.
However, the nail bed still needs to be cleaned with a cleanser (90% alcohol) to degrease it, but this does not damage or stress sensitive nails.

There is also no need to buff or file the nail plate. The gel adheres easily to natural nails, and most Japanese brands offer non-filing bases.

What is the difference between gel and Japanese gel?

Classic gel (what we usually use in salons and at home) and Japanese gel are quite different for many reasons.

Japanese gel is usually sold in pots or jars, unlike the more common bottles.
As a result, the technician will dip a brush into the pot and apply thin layers to the nail, unlike the brush in a bottle.

Generally, for colored gels, this gives the formula a more pigmented look, as the layers are a bit thinner.
However, the gel itself is more viscous, making it ideal for creating extensions, filling ridges, or giving nails an ultra-smooth appearance.

This can also contribute to longevity and chip resistance, as the nail is harder and less prone to breakage.
Another major difference lies in product removal.
Japanese gel is a bit thicker than classic gel polishes; it therefore needs to be filed quite thinly to be completely absorbed.
Generally, the gel is thinly filed before applying a new one on top.
The gel is only completely removed when you want to take a break.
This is completely different from traditional gel manicures, where the gel is completely removed and redone each time.

Adapted article. Source.