Isla Bennett
Gel nail polish is a popular choice for toenails due to its long-lasting wear and durable finish. It is absolutely possible to apply gel nail polish to your toes at home, but it is important to note that the application and removal process may be more challenging compared to fingernails. Toenails are typically thicker and harder to reach, making the gel application and curing process more complex. To apply gel nail polish to your toes, start with clean, dry feet and gently buff away any existing colour. Then, shape the free edges and prep the regrowth areas. Push back the cuticles, remove any excess tissue from the nail plates, gently remove the shine, and trim and shape the free edges. Next, apply a base coat, followed by one or two thin, even coats of gel polish in the colour of your choice. Cure the gel polish under a UV or LED lamp, and finish with a top coat.
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What You'll Learn
Clean, file and prep toenails
To prep the toenails, gently push back the cuticles without breaking the seal, remove any excess tissue from the nail plates, gently remove the shine, and trim and shape the free edges. You can also push back the eponychium area of the toenails and remove any dry skin. Start at the skin, go around the skin, and then come back to do it on the nail plate. When going over the nail plate, don't smooth out the nail, just give it a little bit of texture by making them a little bit matte.
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Apply a base coat
Applying a base coat is an important step in achieving a flawless gel pedicure. It serves as a safety layer, protecting your natural nails and ensuring the gel polish adheres better. Here's a step-by-step guide to applying a base coat for gel nail polish on your toes:
- Start by ensuring your toenails are clean, dry, and properly prepared. Use a manicure brush to remove any dust or dirt from the nail surface. You can also use an alcohol brush with 90% alcohol to thoroughly clean the nails.
- Gently push back your cuticles, being careful not to break the seal. Remove any excess tissue or dry skin from the nail plates and trim and shape the free edges as needed.
- Choose a suitable base coat gel. Opt for a product specifically designed for use as a base coat, such as a builder base, to ensure a strong and durable foundation for your gel polish.
- Apply a thin layer of the base coat gel to each toenail. Work quickly and carefully to ensure an even and precise application.
- Allow the base coat to dry completely. Depending on the product, you may need to cure the base coat under a UV or LED lamp. Follow the specific instructions provided with your chosen base coat.
- Once the base coat is fully cured, you can move on to the next step, which is typically applying the colour gel of your choice.
Remember, taking your time and following the proper steps will help you achieve the best results and ensure the longevity of your gel pedicure.
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Use thin, even coats of gel polish
When applying gel nail polish, it is important to use thin, even coats. This is because the thicker the layer of gel polish, the longer it will take to cure, and the more likely it is to shrink, bead up, or pull away from the nail plate. Working quickly with gel polish is essential to achieving a perfect application.
To ensure your coats are thin and even, you will need to work with clean, dry feet and nails. Start by sanitising your feet with soap and water, and then use a sanitising gel. Next, gently push back your cuticles, being careful not to break the seal. Remove any excess tissue from the nail plates, and trim and shape your nails to your desired length and shape. You can use a hand file or an electric file for this.
Once your nails are prepared, apply a thin, even base coat to protect your natural nails and help the polish adhere better. Then, apply your thin, even coats of gel colour. Depending on the colour intensity you want, you may need to apply one or two coats. Remember to work quickly, and avoid touching the skin or cuticle with the gel. Before curing, use an alcohol brush to wipe away any gel that has come into contact with your skin.
Finally, cure your gel polish under a UV or LED lamp, following the manufacturer's instructions.
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Cure gel polish under a UV or LED lamp
Curing gel polish is the process of using a specially designed UV or LED light to seal and harden the gel nail polish on your nails. This process is known as polymerisation because it causes the molecules in the gel polish to bond together, forming a solid layer of colour that won't chip or wear off easily.
Using a lamp is essential to cure gel nail polish. Without it, the molecules in the gel won't be able to bond together correctly, and your manicure will remain soft and susceptible to damage. While some brands of gel polish don't require a UV or LED light to cure, most professional technicians agree that using a lamp is the best option for ensuring a long-lasting, chip-resistant manicure.
UV and LED lamps are an effective way to cure gel nail polish, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. LED lamps typically cost more than UV lamps, but they tend to last longer, while UV lamps often need bulb replacements. LED lamps cure gel polish faster than UV lamps, and they don't produce as much heat, which can benefit people with sensitive skin or nails. On the other hand, some technicians prefer UV lamps because they offer more power and often provide a wider working area.
To get your LED nail lamp running, start by selecting one with a power rating of at least 36 watts. Place the product on an accessible surface close to where you plan to paint your nails, and plug it into any nearby electrical socket. With your freshly painted nails, position them directly underneath the LED lamp. Ensure one hand is covered with a single coat of nail polish designed for this kind of lighting. Once in place, ensure the shine from the lacquer faces upwards to receive maximum illumination benefits and long-lasting results. To ensure a pristine manicure, keep your hands flat on the table or base of the lamp and separate your fingers.
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Apply a top coat
Once you are done applying the gel colour of your choice, it's time to apply a top coat to finish off your pedicure. This will help to seal in the colour and add shine to your nails.
To begin, take your chosen top coat and apply a thin, even layer over each toenail, making sure to cover the entire nail surface. If you are using crystals or other nail art, you will want to seal everything with a top coat to ensure your design stays in place.
After applying the top coat, cure your nails under a UV or LED lamp. This is an important step as it helps to set the gel polish and ensure it lasts longer. Cure for the recommended time, which is usually around 60 seconds.
If you are using a non-wipe top coat, it will come out of the lamp with a tacky layer. This is normal, and you can simply use an alcohol wipe or brush to remove the sticky residue. Finish off by applying some cuticle oil to nourish your cuticles and the surrounding skin.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can apply gel nail polish to your toenails.
Start with clean, dry feet. Push back the cuticles, remove excess tissue from the nail plates, and gently buff away any remaining colour. Then, shape the free edges and prep the regrowth areas. Ensure your toenails are clean, filed, and properly prepped before applying the gel nail polish.
It is recommended to use a green and clean gel polish to protect your nails and health. Green Flash™ gel polish is an alternative to traditional gel polish, as it is up to 84% plant-based and can be removed like regular nail polish without damaging your nails.
Apply a gel base coat to protect your natural nails and help the polish adhere better. Then, apply one or two thin, even coats of gel polish in the colour of your choice. Finish with a top coat. Cure the gel polish under a UV or LED lamp.
It is recommended that you do not leave gel nail polish on your toenails for longer than three weeks to allow the nail to breathe.
