Broadway Gel Nails: Application Guide For Perfect Manicures

The Broadway Nails Real Life Brush-On Gel Nail Kit is available at Boots for £13.49. The kit includes 3 bottles (brush-on gel, brush-on activator, and brush cleanser), 48 short-length tips, and a nail file. The application process involves attaching the tips to the nails, filing them down, applying the gel and activator, and then painting over the nails with nail varnish. The Broadway Nails kit is easy to use and does not require UV lights, making it a convenient and affordable alternative to salon gel manicures.

Preparing your natural nails

Trim and File: Start by trimming your natural nails to your desired length using a nail clipper. Then, use a nail file to shape your nails and smooth out any rough edges. File in one direction, preferably from the sides towards the centre, to avoid splitting your nails.

Push and Clean Cuticles: Soak your hands in warm water for a few minutes to soften your cuticles. Then, use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles. Avoid cutting or removing your cuticles, as this can lead to infection. Use a soft nail brush to clean under your nails and remove any dirt or debris.

Buff and Smooth: Gently buff the surface of your nails with a nail buffer to create a smooth base. Buffing will also help remove any ridges or imperfections on your nail plates, ensuring a more even application of the gel nail kit.

Moisturize and Nourish: Apply a small amount of cuticle oil or hand moisturizer to your cuticles and nails. Massage it into your cuticles and the surrounding skin to nourish and hydrate the area. This step will help prevent dryness and promote healthy nails.

Remove Residue: Before applying the gel nail kit, ensure your nails are clean and free of any oils or residue. You can use an acetone-based nail polish remover to wipe your nails, ensuring they are completely dry before proceeding with the next steps of the Broadway Gel Nail Kit application.

By following these steps, you will create a solid foundation for your gel manicure, ensuring it adheres properly and lasts longer. Remember to always handle your natural nails with care to maintain their health and strength.

Applying the gel and activator

To begin, apply the gel to your nails. The kit is suitable for both natural nails and artificial nails. If using artificial nails, apply the tips to your nails like normal stick-on fake nails and file them to level the surface with your natural nail. After applying the gel, immediately brush on the activator while the gel is still wet. Use the brush from the brush cleanser bottle, and be sure to dip it back into the cleanser before dipping it into the activator for each new nail.

The number of coats of gel and activator may vary, but it is typically recommended to apply at least two coats of each. Allow the layers to dry between applications, and be mindful that this may take a few minutes. Once you have applied the final coat of activator, allow your nails to dry completely. This should take around 10 minutes.

After the gel and activator have been applied and dried, you can proceed with the rest of your manicure. This may include applying nail varnish or a top coat to achieve your desired look.

Using the brush cleanser

The Broadway Nails Brush-On Gel Nail Kit comes with a brush cleanser, which is an important part of the kit and should not be skipped. The brush cleanser is used to clean your brush between applications of the activator.

After applying the gel to one nail, you should immediately brush on the activator while the gel is still wet. Before moving on to the next nail, dip the brush into the cleanser and then into the activator to start the process on a new nail. This step should not be skipped, as it prevents the brush from stiffening and becoming useless.

The brush cleanser can also be used if your brush starts to harden during the application process. Simply dip the brush into the cleanser and then continue with the application.

It is worth noting that some users have reported that the brush-on gel bottle seems to be almost empty upon opening, and that the gel dries out while in use, even when the bottle is capped.

Drying and polishing

Drying:

Allowing adequate drying time between each layer is essential for achieving the best results with the Broadway gel nail kit. Each layer of gel and activator should be given time to dry before proceeding to the next step. The recommended drying time between layers is about 5 to 10 minutes. It's important to note that the drying time may vary depending on the thickness of the application and environmental factors. To accelerate the drying process, some users have suggested applying a small amount of activator to the crease of the real nail and the tip, after filing.

Polishing:

Once the gel and activator layers are dry, you can proceed to polish your nails. Start by applying one or two coats of your chosen nail varnish, depending on the desired opacity and colour intensity. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next. After the nail varnish is completely dry, finish with a top coat to add shine and protect your manicure.

Some users have reported that the Broadway gel nail kit provides a smooth surface for polish application, resulting in a professional-looking finish. It's important to note that the kit does not require UV lights for curing, which is a convenient feature. However, some users have experienced issues with the gel taking a long time to dry completely. In such cases, a top coat can help seal the manicure and prevent it from picking up lint or hair.

Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the Broadway gel nail kit offers a versatile solution, as it can be used with or without the nail tips. Some users have achieved a natural look by carefully filing the bottom of the tips to blend them with their nail beds. This allows for a mix of natural nails and tips, accommodating different nail shapes and lengths.

Removing the gel

If you are removing the nail tips as well as the gel, the process is a little different. As one reviewer notes, you can simply pull off the tips and let your nails grow out. However, if you are in a hurry, you can file the bottom of the tip down to blend with your nail bed. This will ensure a smooth and seamless finish.

It is important to note that the Broadway Nails Brush-On Gel Nail Kit does not come with nail polish remover, so you will need to purchase this separately. The kit is also reported to take longer to dry than the time stated on the packaging, so it is recommended that you allow ample time for your nails to dry before removing the gel. One reviewer notes that their nails still hadn't dried after ten hours, so be sure to leave enough time to avoid any smudging or unwanted results.

Overall, the Broadway Nails Brush-On Gel Nail Kit is a great option for those who want a professional-looking manicure at home. The removal process is straightforward, and with the right tools and techniques, you can easily achieve salon-quality results.

Frequently asked questions