LiNTO FAQ: Nail Bases, Gels & Application

They perform different jobs. A preparation cleanser removes surface oils and residue. A dehydrator helps remove excess surface moisture. A primer supports adhesion between the natural nail and the coating. One does not automatically replace the others.

Choose the preparation steps required by your product system rather than adding extra liquids to every service.

Not necessarily. LiNTO guidance recommends DEHYDRATOR particularly for nails with excess surface moisture and for work in humid conditions. It is not an automatic extra step for every client.

Assess the nail and follow the preparation instructions for the coating you are applying.

Use a nearly dry brush to apply a small amount to the natural nail in the stress area and toward the free edge, keeping it off the skin. Allow it to air-dry according to the product instructions.

Do not flood the nail or repeatedly layer the primer. During a refill, it does not need to be reapplied over retained artificial material.

BASE FRAME is primarily a flexible foundation, including under gel. When used for leveling, LiNTO recommends it for short nails because it retains flexibility.

BASE LEGEND becomes firmer in a leveling layer and is suited to leveling and strengthening, including longer natural nails. Choose according to nail length, condition, and the planned service.

BASE CAMOUFLAGE can be used as a standalone base where the nail condition and application protocol allow. Apply and cure a thin first layer, then apply and cure the leveling layer.

If the client is transitioning from acidic materials, a separate foundation protocol may be needed. Ask a LiNTO technologist to confirm the appropriate approach.

A separate base may be required depending on the gel, nail condition, and application technique. LiNTO identifies BASE FRAME as a foundation option under gel; HAND BASE is another option in the relevant protocol.

Some REPAIR GEL CLEAR techniques use a different application sequence. Follow the instructions for the exact gel rather than assuming every hard gel uses the same foundation.

HAND LINE was developed for thin manicure coatings. The system includes HAND BONDER, HAND BASE, and HAND TOP.

For a sheer, natural-looking tint, BASE CORRECTOR is another option within its own application protocol. Keep the choice focused on the desired finish and the support the natural nail needs.

CORNER GEL is designed for targeted free-edge work, including restoring missing corners and making limited repairs or extensions within the recommended technique.

It is not intended to replace a full structural correction. Its thixotropic consistency becomes more workable under the brush; stir it before use as directed.

PODO BASE is designed for a very thin pedicure coating, not a bulky leveling layer. Apply it thinly without aggressively scrubbing the brush over the nail, which can remove too much material.

PODO TOP completes the dedicated pedicure system without adding unnecessary thickness.

PODO BASE ON-LIGHT was developed as a standalone tinted pedicure base, so a transparent foundation is not routinely required.

Follow its preparation protocol and apply thin layers. If previous products or the nail condition call for a modified approach, confirm the foundation choice with a LiNTO technologist.

For the LiNTO no-wipe tops covered by this protocol, gently buff the cured first layer to a matte finish before applying the second. Remove the filing dust and follow the product instructions for reapplication and curing.

Applying directly over a smooth cured no-wipe surface can result in poor adhesion between layers.

Lifting needs a review of the full service, not just a change of base. Check preparation, the liquids used, product compatibility, layer thickness, and the curing protocol.

For useful troubleshooting, send LiNTO support clear photos, the location and timing of the lifting, your complete product sequence, and the lamp model and curing times.

The removal method depends on the product. LiNTO guidance allows soak-off removal for suitable base and gel-polish coatings applied in thin layers, while hard modeling gels require filing.

Check the instructions for every layer in the coating. A hard-gel structure does not become soak-off simply because it is covered with gel polish. Never peel the coating off.

Do not assume that any lamp will work. Use the equipment and exposure times recommended for the specific product, and ask LiNTO for compatibility guidance if your lamp is not specified.

Insufficient curing can increase allergy risk. Follow the complete curing instructions rather than shortening exposure because a layer appears hard.

No. HEMA-free describes the absence of one ingredient; it does not guarantee that a product cannot cause an allergic reaction. Other nail product ingredients can also cause allergy.

If itching, swelling, blistering, or a rash occurs, stop using the suspected product and seek medical advice. A client with a previous reaction should consult a dermatologist before further gel services. Do not carry out salon allergy tests with uncured nail products.