Sophia Delgado
Polygel nails are a popular choice for those who want long-lasting, strong nails. The method involves using a base coat and nail tips to achieve the desired length and shape before applying the polygel directly to the natural nail. Some people opt for the lazy girl method, which doesn't require much filing and uses regular false nail tips as the container for the polygel. Others prefer to freestyle the polygel on top of the nail tips, shaping them as desired. Regardless of the method chosen, polygel nails offer a durable and aesthetically pleasing option for those looking to enhance their natural nails.
Can you put poly gel over nail tips?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you put poly gel over nail tips? | Yes |
| Advantages | You don't need much filing to get a perfect shape, adds strength with both polygel and nail tips, and you get the cleanest undersides this way |
| Disadvantages | Holding a small nail tip and applying polygel with it can be very inconvenient, especially when you have long nails |
| Steps | Prep your nail with basic cuticle removal, nail shaping, and filing shine off; file the inner surface of the cuticle side of the tips to make it adhere better with polygel; put some base coat in the tips and cure it for about 10 seconds; squeeze a suitable amount of polygel into the nail tip and use a brush with slip solution to press the polygel and make it fulfill the whole tip; put it on your nail and press with some pressure; cure it for about 60 seconds; file the cuticle side to make the edge of the nail tip disappear and make polygel connect with your real nail naturally; apply a layer of top coat on it and cure for 30 seconds |
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What You'll Learn
The Lazy Girl Method
Firstly, you will need to prepare your nails by ensuring they are clean and filed to your desired shape. You can then apply a base coat to your nails. Next, you will need to apply the nail tips. You can use nail glue or a base coat to stick the nail tips down. Once you have applied the nail tips, you can cut and shape them to your desired length and style.
Now you can apply the polygel. Apply a thin layer of polygel directly to your nail and shape it as desired. Remember not to make the polygel too thick, or it will leak out from the sides. If there is any leaking polygel, use a slip solution or 75% alcohol to brush it off. Then, cure the polygel for about 60 seconds. You should use a nail clip to hold it, to prevent air bubbles from forming.
Finally, file the cuticle side to make the edge of the nail tip disappear and make the polygel connect with your real nail. Apply a layer of the top coat and cure for 30 seconds. You can add some gel polish or rhinestones before the top coat, depending on your desired design. Repeat these steps for the rest of your nails.
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Using nail glue
To use the "lazy girl method," start by applying a suitable amount of polygel to the nail tip. Use a brush with a slip solution to press and spread the polygel evenly across the entire tip. If you don't have a slip solution, you can substitute it with 75% alcohol, which usually comes with the polygel kit. This method is particularly useful if you have long nails, as it can be challenging to hold a small nail tip and apply polygel simultaneously. A nail tip holder can be a helpful tool to overcome this issue.
When using nail glue, it's important to note that the order of steps may vary. Some people apply a base coat first and then glue the tips on, while others glue the tips and then apply a base coat. You can use nail glue to attach the tips and shape them as desired before proceeding with the standard polygel steps. This method can result in strong and long-lasting nails, even when subjected to various activities such as cleaning, outdoor romping with pets, skiing, or swimming.
While using nail glue can be effective, there are a few considerations. Some people have reported that their fake nails, applied with instant nail glue, only lasted about a week. Additionally, the thickness of the polygel layer might be a factor, as thicker layers may not work well with thermal gel polishes painted over them. It's also worth noting that some nails may be too thick to work with regular nail glue, so a base coat might be a better alternative in those cases.
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Using a base coat
Yes, you can put poly gel over nail tips. Using a base coat is an essential step in this process, as it helps the poly gel adhere to the nail tips securely and creates a smooth surface for application. Here is a detailed guide on using a base coat when applying poly gel over nail tips:
Prepare Your Nails:
Before applying the base coat, ensure your nails are clean and dry. Gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher or wooden orange stick. You can also lightly buff the surface of your nails to create a slightly rough texture, which will help the base coat and nail tips adhere better.
Apply the Base Coat:
Select a high-quality base coat designed specifically for gel nails. Carefully apply a thin, even layer of the base coat to each nail, making sure to cover the entire nail surface. Allow the base coat to air-dry completely, which usually takes about 60 to 90 seconds.
Cure the Base Coat:
Curing the base coat is a crucial step. Place your nails under a UV or LED lamp for the recommended time, typically 30 to 60 seconds. The curing process hardens the base coat and creates a durable foundation for the nail tips and poly gel.
Adhere the Nail Tips:
After curing the base coat, it's time to attach your nail tips. Gently press the nail tips onto your natural nails, positioning them as close to your cuticles as possible without touching the skin. You can use nail glue or the base coat itself as an adhesive. Some people prefer using the base coat as glue to achieve a cleaner look and stronger adhesion.
File and Shape the Nails:
Once the nail tips are securely attached, file and shape them to your desired look. You can use a nail file to adjust the length and shape of the tips. Make sure to smooth any rough edges and create a seamless blend between the nail tips and your natural nails.
Apply Poly Gel:
With the base coat and nail tips in place, you can now apply the poly gel. Follow the standard poly gel application process, carefully spreading the poly gel over your nails and shaping it to your desired look. Remember that poly gel has a gummy-like consistency and won't dry unless cured.
Cure the Poly Gel:
After applying the poly gel, cure it under a UV or LED lamp according to the manufacturer's instructions. Curing will harden the poly gel and give your nails long-lasting strength and durability.
Finish and Maintain Your Nails:
Finally, shape and buff your nails to achieve the desired look and feel. You can also add a top coat for extra shine and protection. To maintain your poly gel nails, avoid harsh chemicals and activities that may cause chipping. If you wish to remove the poly gel, gently file it off; soaking will not remove it.
Remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to nail art. With patience and experimentation, you'll be able to master the technique of using a base coat to apply poly gel over nail tips, creating beautiful and long-lasting nail enhancements.
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Using dual forms
Poly gel nails are a popular choice for those who want long-lasting, strong, and natural-looking nails. Using dual forms is a beginner-friendly method for achieving the perfect poly gel nail look. Dual forms are flexible, reusable plastic tools that help shape and form nail extensions using poly gel. They provide a pre-shaped curve that mimics the natural arc of the nail, making it easier to achieve a consistent and flawless application.
Step 1: Prep Your Nails
Start by preparing your nails. Push back your cuticles and ensure your nails are clean and dry. You may also want to shape your natural nails to your desired length and shape, as the dual forms will be applied directly on top.
Step 2: Select the Appropriate Dual Forms
Choose dual forms that are slightly wider than your natural nails. This will prevent the poly gel from overflowing and allow for proper adhesion. Match the curvature of the dual form to your natural nail as closely as possible for a comfortable and natural-looking fit.
Step 3: Apply the Base Coat
Apply a thin layer of base coat to your nails and cure it under an LED nail dryer for about 60 seconds. This will help the poly gel adhere better and create a stronger bond.
Step 4: Place the Dual Forms
Gently press the dual forms onto your nails, ensuring they cover the sidewalls perfectly without pressing too hard. The dual forms should fit snugly and follow the natural curve of your nails.
Step 5: Apply the Poly Gel
Start applying the poly gel from the cuticle area and spread it outward, making sure it's thinner near the cuticle and sidewalls to prevent bulkiness. Use a small amount of poly gel at first, and add more as needed.
Step 6: Cure the Nails
Cure the poly gel under a nail lamp for a brief period, around 10 seconds, to start setting the gel. After the initial cure, you can relax your hand as the gel will not shift.
Step 7: Shape and File
Once the poly gel has set, you can remove the dual forms and begin shaping and filing your nails to your desired length, shape, and thickness. Use a nail file to gently shape the poly gel and create your preferred nail shape.
Step 8: Apply a Top Coat
Finally, apply a layer of top coat to seal and protect your poly gel nails. This will give them a smooth finish and add shine.
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Using press-on nails
Press-on nails are a great alternative to salon manicures. They are user-friendly, affordable, and convenient, and can be applied in minutes. They come in a variety of shapes, styles, and colours, and are suitable for all budgets.
Press-on nails typically come in a kit that includes the nails, a cuticle pusher, a file, and nail glue. The nails themselves are usually divided into a five-compartment container with multiple sizes for each nail, so you can find the right fit for your left and right hands. Some kits also include sticky, double-sided tabs instead of glue.
Before applying press-on nails, it is important to prep your natural nails. File and lightly buff each nail, and push back your cuticles. You can also apply a nail strengthener to keep your nails healthy. Wipe each nail with an alcohol wipe and ensure they are completely dry.
When you are ready to apply the press-on nails, select the correct size for each finger and set them out in order. Apply a small drop of glue to both the press-on nail and your natural nail. Hold the press-on nail straight and lay it on your natural nail bed, right above your cuticle line. Ensure that the press-on nail is not glued to your cuticles. Press gently and hold the nail down for 10-20 seconds until it is firmly in place. Repeat this process for the rest of your nails.
Once all the press-on nails are in place, you can file them to match the natural shape of your nails and remove any excess glue with clippers. Wash your hands and you are done! With proper care, your press-on nails can last up to two weeks.
To remove your press-on nails gently, apply a little cuticle oil around the edges to break down the adhesive. Gently lift the nails at the edges with a cuticle stick and avoid pulling them off by the ends to prevent damage to your natural nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can put poly gel over nail tips. This method is known as the "lazy girl method" and is considered beginner-friendly.
To apply polygel over nail tips, start by prepping your nails with basic cuticle removal, nail shaping, and filing shine off. Next, apply a base coat to the nail tips and cure it for about 10 seconds. Squeeze the desired amount of polygel into the nail tip and use a brush with a slip solution to press the polygel and make it fill the entire tip.
Polygel over nail tips can last for a good amount of time, with some users reporting that it can easily last beyond two to three weeks.
