Ultrabonds & Primers

Ultrabond and Primer: The Layer That Holds Your Base

Lifting often starts with the preparation, not with the base itself. A dehydrator first removes moisture and oils from the nail plate. The primer then creates the actual bond and works like double-sided tape between the natural nail and the base, gel or acrylic.

Acid-Free Ultrabond

Acid-free ultrabonds do not disturb the nail's natural pH, so they are gentle enough for thin and weak nails. After drying they leave a tacky layer that holds the base in place. They air-dry without a lamp and suit gel polish manicures as well as most extensions.

Low-Acid Bonder

A low-acid bonder sits between the two types. It is still gentle on the pH, but gives extra grip on brittle, thin nails that tend to split and peel.

Acid Primer

Acid primers are based on methacrylic acid. Besides bonding, they degrease, dehydrate and disinfect the nail plate, and they give maximum adhesion for gel or acrylic modelling and on problem nails where coatings keep lifting. Apply a very thin layer to the nail plate only, keep it off the skin and let it dry completely.

Which One to Choose

• Gel polish on healthy nails: an acid-free ultrabond.
• Thin, brittle or splitting nails: an acid-free or low-acid bonder.
• Extensions, acrylic, oily nail plates or recurring lifting: an acid primer.

Primer in the Prep Sequence

1. Push back the cuticle and remove the shine from the nail plate.
2. Remove the dust and apply a dehydrator.
3. Apply the ultrabond or primer and let it dry.
4. Continue with the base coat.

Ultrabonds and Primers by Brand

• DARK: acid-free Ultrabond that adds no thickness and air-dries in about 30 seconds.
• DNKa': low-acid Ultrabond for brittle and thin nails.
• HEYLOVE: acid-free Ultrabond that respects the nail's natural pH.
• Kodi: acid-free Ultrabond and an acid primer based on methacrylic acid.
• LUNAmoon: acid-free Ultrabond with a tacky finish and an Acid Primer that also disinfects the nail plate.
• TOUCH: acid-free Ultrabond without alcohol that leaves a sticky layer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an ultrabond and a primer?

"Ultrabond" usually means an acid-free primer that bonds by leaving a tacky layer. A classic acid primer works more aggressively and is used where maximum adhesion is needed, such as extensions and problem nails.

Do I need a dehydrator before the ultrabond?

Yes. The dehydrator removes moisture and oils, and the ultrabond then bonds to a clean, dry nail plate. The two steps complement each other.

Does ultrabond need curing in a lamp?

No. Ultrabonds and primers air-dry. Wait until the layer is dry, then apply the base.

Can I use an acid primer under gel polish?

Yes, especially on oily nails or when gel polish keeps lifting. Use only a very thin layer, applied to the nail plate and not to the skin.

Can I combine an ultrabond with a base from another brand?

Yes. Ultrabonds and primers prepare the natural nail, and you can follow them with the base you normally use.