Gel nails are a popular choice for beauty enthusiasts who want a glossy, long-lasting manicure without making frequent trips to the salon.
However, individuals must use the right tools and techniques to achieve professional-looking results at home that last up to three weeks, according to Cortiva Institute.
Nail care experts emphasize that a successful at-home gel manicure depends on proper preparation, correct application techniques, and safe removal practices.
According to Cortiva Institute, proper nail preparation and the use of thin, evenly cured layers are key factors in achieving a long-lasting gel manicure at home.
Proper nail preparation includes cleaning and trimming the nails, shaping, and buffing the nail surface, according to nail experts.
“Proper nail preparation is crucial for a long-lasting gel manicure,” Cortiva Institute notes.
Before starting the process, beginners should make sure they have a UV or LED nail lamp, gel base coat, gel polish, gel topcoat, a nail file, a buffer, a cuticle pusher, lint-free wipes, isopropyl alcohol or nail cleanser, cuticle oil, and acetone for removal.
Gel Nail Step by Step Guide
Before beginning the application of gel nail polish, begin by removing old polish, washing your hands, and shaping your nails with a file.
After the cleaning process, gently push back the cuticles and lightly buff the nail surface to remove shine.
Beginner tutorials from Mylee and other professional nail educators advise lightly buffing the nail surface to remove shine and create a better surface for gel adhesion.
Once complete, wipe off the nail dust and oils with a lint-free wipe soaked in isopropyl alcohol and nail cleanser.
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Step 2: Apply Base Coat
Apply a thin layer of gel base coat to each nail even layer of the gel base coat to each nail, ensuring the product does not touch the skin or cuticles.
Cure the base coat under your UV or LED lamp according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3: Color Gel Application
Experts recommend applying two to three thin coats of gel after curing the base coat.
Additional nail technicians argue that ‘capping the free edge’ by lightly brushing polish across the nail tip prevents gel chipping.
However, each coat of color should be fully cured before applying the next layer.
Nail technicians and experts advise against applying thick coats, as they can cure unevenly and affect the final appearance of the manicure.
Apply a gel topcoat after the desired color is applied to seal the manicure and add shine, and cure before wiping off any remains of the products.
Step 4: Curing Process
During the curing process, users should follow the curing times recommended for their specific lamp and gel system.
Under-curing can leave the gel soft beneath the surface, leading to dull-looking nails that chip more quickly.
According to at-home gel manicure tutorials, a properly applied gel manicure typically lasts 10 to 14 days before showing signs of wear.
To finish the gel nails application process, apply cuticle oil around the nails to restore moisture and keep the surrounding skin healthy.
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Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid
According to nail care experts, several common mistakes can shorten the lifespan of a gel manicure or affect its appearance.
The common mistakes include applying gel polish in thick layers rather than thin, uneven coats, rushing through the nail preparation stage, and allowing the product to pool at the cuticle area.
To avoid irritation and allergic reactions from gel nail application, experts advise following the recommended curing times for each coat, using lamps compatible with the gel products, and avoiding direct skin contact with uncured gel.
How to Remove Gel Nails Safely
According to Cortiva Institute, gel nails should never be peeled or picked off to avoid stripping layers from the natural nail and leaving it weak or damaged.
Instead, one should lightly file the shiny top layer, soak cotton in acetone, place the cotton on the nail, and wrap with foil for 10 to 15 minutes.
Experts recommend the use of hand cream and cuticle oil after gel removal to maintain nail health.
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