Ever noticed gel colours looking different after a sunny holiday? Discover why UV exposure can affect certain pigments, which shades are most susceptible to fading, and how clients can keep colour looking vibrant for longer.
Have you ever noticed that certain gel shades can look slightly different after a holiday or prolonged time in strong sunshine? While professional gel products are designed to provide long-lasting colour and shine, exposure to intense UV light can sometimes affect specific pigments over time.
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is powerful enough to break down certain colour pigments. This process, known as photodegradation, can cause some shades to gradually fade, lighten or shift in tone when exposed to prolonged periods of strong sunlight.
This is particularly noticeable in regions with high UV indexes or during activities where hands are continuously exposed, such as driving, gardening, beach holidays or outdoor sports.
Not all pigments react to UV exposure in the same way. In general:
- Bright pinks, reds and corals may lose some vibrancy over time.
- Neon shades are especially susceptible, as fluorescent pigments are naturally less UV stable.
- Certain purples and blues can sometimes shift slightly in tone after extended sun exposure.
- Darker, highly saturated shades and more neutral colours typically show less noticeable fading.
Not at all. Even the highest-quality professional products rely on carefully selected pigments, and some colourants are inherently more sensitive to UV radiation than others. This is true across many industries, from automotive paint to fabrics and cosmetics.
Manufacturers work to balance colour vibrancy, safety regulations and long-term stability, but complete immunity to intense sunlight isn't always possible for every pigment.
A few simple habits can help maintain colour vibrancy for longer:
- Apply SPF to the hands when spending long periods of time outdoors.
- Wear gloves during activities with prolonged sun exposure.
- Avoid leaving hands directly in strong sunlight for extended periods where possible.
- Keep nails well-maintained with regular appointments and fresh top coat applications.
Some degree of colour change in certain shades after prolonged UV exposure is completely normal and is a result of how specific pigments interact with sunlight. It doesn't impact the performance, durability or wear of the gel itself — simply the appearance of the colour over time.
Understanding the science behind pigments allows both nail professionals and clients to make informed choices and maintain beautiful results all year round.
