* The gel creates a hard, smooth surface. This makes it difficult to see the natural growth of your nails. The line where the gel ends and your natural nail begins is often more obvious than the actual growth.
* The gel can chip or break. When this happens, it can expose the natural nail underneath, making it look like your nails have suddenly grown.
* The gel can lift. This is when the gel separates from the natural nail, creating a gap. This gap can make it look like your nails have grown a lot faster than they actually have.
To sum up: Your nails are still growing under the gel, but the gel itself can make it difficult to notice.