Sophia Delgado
Applying gel polish to natural nails can be done at home with the right tools and preparation. The gel manicure is a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting, chip-resistant, and glossy finish that strengthens nails and protects them from breaking. To achieve salon-worthy results, it is important to properly prepare the nails, apply the gel polish, and care for the manicure post-application. This involves filing, shaping, and pushing back the cuticles, as well as using a nail dehydrator and primer. The gel polish is then applied in thin coats, cured under a UV or LED lamp, and finished with a top coat. Maintaining healthy cuticles and reapplying a top coat can extend the life of the manicure, while proper removal techniques are essential to avoid damaging natural nails.
How to Apply Gel Polish to Natural Nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail shape | Desired shape, common shapes include oval, square, and almond |
| Nail buffer | Buff the surface to remove the natural shine and create a rough surface for better gel polish adhesion |
| Cuticles | Push back with a cuticle pusher, do not cut, and moisturize with cuticle oil or cream after applying polish |
| Nail dehydrator | Apply to remove oils from nails |
| Primer | Apply to help gel polish bond to nails |
| Base coat | Apply a thin layer, covering the entire nail, cure under a UV or LED lamp for 30-60 seconds |
| Gel polish | Choose desired shade, apply a thin, even layer to each nail, cure each layer under the lamp, may need 2-3 coats |
| Top coat | Apply to maintain shine and prevent chipping |
| Removal | Do not peel off gel polish, soak a cotton ball in acetone, wrap nail with aluminum foil, and let sit for 10-15 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
File and shape nails
Before applying gel polish, it is important to file and shape your natural nails. This process will help you achieve your desired nail shape and ensure that your nails maintain their strength. Here is a step-by-step guide to filing and shaping your nails:
First, choose your desired nail shape. Popular shapes include square, almond, and oval. Once you have decided on a shape, gently push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher or the flat side of a dual-sided tool. Then, use the pointed end to gently remove any dead skin cells from underneath the cuticle. This step will provide a clean nail bed for painting and help your manicure last longer.
Next, grab a nail file. If you are using a board hand file, place it under your nail and bring it in a bit, rather than filing on top. This will help you avoid filing off the top coat. For an almond or oval shape, you can use a medium grit file, such as a 150 or 180 grit file. Start by filing the sides of the nail straight down, and then gently round the corners in one direction to achieve the desired shape. Be careful not to dig your file and move it back and forth, as this can damage the connection between the nail and the nail plate.
If you are reshaping a French tip nail, be aware that filing will break the seal on the white tip, causing it to collect pigment. Once you are happy with the shape, dust off your nails with a dry brush. Then, wet the brush with 90% alcohol and dust them off again, remembering to brush under the nails.
Now that your nails are filed and shaped, you can continue with the next steps of your gel manicure!
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Push back cuticles
Pushing back your cuticles is a crucial step when preparing your nails for a gel manicure. This step ensures that your gel polish will apply evenly without lifting at the edges. It is also important to avoid cutting your cuticles, as this can lead to infections.
To push back your cuticles, you will need a cuticle pusher. It is recommended to use a pusher made of surgical steel, as this will be gentle on your nails. You can also use an orange stick, which is a wooden cuticle pusher with a flat end for pushing back cuticles and a pointed end for cleaning under the nails.
Before you begin pushing back your cuticles, make sure your hands and nails are clean. Soak your hands in warm water to soften the cuticles, and then gently push them back using your chosen tool. Be careful not to use too much pressure, as this can damage the nail bed.
Once you have pushed back the cuticles, you can continue with the next steps of your gel manicure. It is important to follow the correct order of steps to ensure the best results and longevity of your manicure. This includes shaping your nails, buffing the surface to remove any shine, and applying a nail dehydrator and primer.
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Remove shine and dust
Removing the shine from your nails is an important step in preparing your nails for gel polish. This process helps to create a slightly rough surface, allowing the gel polish to adhere better and last longer. To remove the shine, you can use a nail buffer to gently buff the surface of your nails. Make sure to go around all the edges of the nail to ensure that all shine is removed. This step will also help smooth out any ridges on your nails.
After buffing your nails, it is crucial to remove any remaining natural nail oils and dust. Use a lint-free wipe and a gel residue wipe-off solution to clean your nails thoroughly. You can also use a nail dehydrator at this stage to ensure that all oils are removed. Be sure to avoid touching your nails after this step to maintain a clean base for the gel polish.
Additionally, you can use a nail primer to further enhance the adhesion of the gel polish. The primer will help the gel polish bond to your nails more effectively. It is important to choose a high-quality primer that is suitable for your nails.
By following these steps and removing the shine and dust from your nails, you will create an optimal surface for the gel polish to adhere to. This will result in a longer-lasting manicure and ensure that your gel polish applies evenly without lifting or chipping.
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Apply base coat and cure
Once your nails are prepped, it's time to apply the base coat. Choose a high-quality gel base coat and apply a thin, even layer to each nail, making sure to cover the entire nail, including the edges or free edge of the nail. Capping the edges will prevent the polish from lifting. The base coat acts as a foundation for the gel polish, helping it to adhere to your nails.
After applying the base coat, you'll need to cure it. Cure the base coat under a UV or LED lamp for the recommended time, which is usually around 30-60 seconds. You can use a UV lamp to ensure a long-lasting manicure. If you're using an LED lamp, the curing time may be shorter, so refer to the specific instructions for your chosen product. During the curing process, the light from the lamp hardens the gel polish, creating a durable, chip-resistant finish that extends the life of your manicure.
It's important to note that you should avoid touching your nails or exposing them to moisture during the curing process. This will ensure that the gel polish sets properly and doesn't smudge or lift from your nails. If you're using a nail lamp with a timer, you can set it according to the recommended curing time for your specific gel polish brand.
If you're a beginner, it's a good idea to invest in brushes with caps to prevent accidental curing. Keep your nail brushes away from direct sunlight, as this can also cure the gel polish prematurely. Additionally, make sure your workspace is well-ventilated, as the curing process can produce a strong odour.
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Apply colour and cure
Now it's time to add some colour to your nails! Choose your desired shade of gel polish and apply a thin, even layer to each nail, making sure to cover the entire nail, including the edges. It's important to apply the polish in thin coats to avoid bubbles and ensure a smooth finish. Remember to avoid getting the polish on your cuticles and skin. If you do, use a small brush dipped in acetone to clean up the edges.
Once you've applied the first thin layer of colour, it's time to cure it. Place your nails under a UV or LED lamp for the recommended time, usually around 30-60 seconds. This will vary depending on the brand of gel polish you're using, so be sure to check the instructions. Curing the polish under the lamp will harden and set it, giving your manicure that long-lasting effect.
Depending on the opacity of the polish and the coverage you desire, you may need to apply additional coats. If so, repeat the process, applying a thin, even layer of colour to each nail and curing it under the lamp. It's important to cure each coat before applying the next one to ensure proper setting and avoid smudging. Typically, you may need 2-3 coats of polish to achieve full coverage.
After you've applied and cured the final coat of colour, your nails will be looking vibrant and beautiful. But don't forget to finish with a top coat to add extra shine and protection. Apply a thin layer of top coat to each nail and cure it under the lamp for the recommended time. This will help seal in the colour, prevent chipping, and ensure your manicure lasts longer.
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Frequently asked questions
First, shape your nails to your desired length and style using a nail file. Then, gently buff the surface with a nail buffer to remove the natural shine and create a rough surface for the gel polish to adhere better. Push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher to ensure your gel polish will apply evenly.
You will need a nail file, a nail buffer, a cuticle pusher, a nail dehydrator, a primer, a gel base coat, your chosen gel polish colour, and a UV or LED lamp.
Soak a cotton ball in acetone and place it on your nail. Wrap each nail with aluminium foil and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Avoid peeling off gel polish, as this can damage your natural nails and leave them weak.
