hi there i use calgel and when i frist started i sometimes found that they felt weak and broke but after trial and error i realised it was because i was using the clear too sparingly (sp) now i make sure i have a good coat of clear on the apex and thin free edge and cuticle, i have used other soak offs and find calgel REALLY strong, when i do french using comp white i only use the clear where the white will go then cure for 30 wipe lightly buff then continue to apply white then onto clear and i'm really careful to only cure for 30 secs and use calcrystal after. hth