Liam Carter
Adding sequins to gel nails is a fun way to spice up your manicure and is easier to master than it looks. There are several ways to apply sequins to gel nails, including using a sponge applicator, dotting tool, or simply sprinkling the sequins onto your nails. You can also use nail glue or clear acrylic to place sequins individually onto the nail. If you're using loose sequins, it's important to use nail glitter, which is made specifically for nails, as regular craft glitter can be damaging to your nails. To ensure your sequins stay put, finish with a top coat.
How to Apply Sequins to Gel Nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Nail glue or clear acrylic, a tiny nail brush, a sponge applicator or dotting tool, tweezers, a store-bought "rhinestone picker", or a small, sharp tool |
| Base coat | Clear polish or any color of your choice |
| Top coat | Essie Gel-Setter Top Coat, Essie Matte About You, or a gel top coat |
| Sequins | Cosmetic glitter, craft glitter sequins, confetti, or chunky sequin glitter |
| Application method | Dip the brush in the adhesive, pick up the sequin, and tap it onto the nail delicately; use a sponge applicator or dotting tool to apply the sequins to the nails, or simply shake the sequins directly onto the nails |
| Additional tips | Use a top coat to lock in the sequins and make them last longer; apply as thin a layer of sequins as possible to achieve a smooth, even finish |
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What You'll Learn
Using nail glue or clear acrylic
To apply sequins to gel nails, you can use nail glue or clear acrylic. Start by applying a base coat of your choice. This can be a clear polish or any colour you like. You can then apply a regular or matte top coat on top.
Next, you will need to apply your sequins. Using a small nail brush, dip the brush into your chosen adhesive, pick up your sequin, and tap it delicately onto your nail. You can also use a Sponge Applicator or Dotting Tool to apply the sequins. If you are using a Dotting Tool, you can pick up the sequins with the tool and place them onto your nail, gently pressing down to secure them. For fine loose sequins, simply shaking the product over a tacky nail will work well.
To ensure your sequins are locked in, finish the nail off with a top coat. This will ensure your sequins stay in place.
It is important to use cosmetic glitter or nail glitter, as regular glitter could be damaging to your nails.
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Applying a base coat
It is essential to leave the tacky layer that will be left on your nails after curing the second coat of colour. This tacky layer will help the sequins stick to your nails. If you wish to add rhinestones, diamonds, or other accessories, you can apply a small dot of glue or clear nail polish to the spot where you want the embellishment to stick.
Using nail glue or clear acrylic and a tiny nail brush, you can then pick up the sequins and delicately tap them onto your nail. For loose sequins, you can also sprinkle them directly over the tacky layer and gently press them onto the nail. Remember to tap off any excess sequins.
To ensure a smooth finish, gently buff the sequins into your nail using a small nail art brush in circular motions. This will help the sequins lie flat and feel smooth while also adhering to the tacky layer.
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Using a sponge applicator
Applying sequins to gel nails can be done in several ways, and one of the most popular methods is by using a sponge applicator. This method can help you achieve a stunning, professional-looking manicure with minimal effort. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply sequins to gel nails using a sponge applicator:
Step 1: Prepare Your Nails
Start by ensuring your nails are clean and dry. Push back your cuticles and shape your nails to your desired length and style. It's important to create a smooth base for the gel polish and sequins to adhere properly.
Step 2: Apply a Base Coat
Apply a thin layer of base coat to your nails. This step is crucial as it helps the gel polish stick better and protects your nails. You can use a clear base coat or choose a coloured base that complements your sequins. Allow the base coat to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Apply Gel Polish
Select your desired gel polish colour and apply it to your nails. It is recommended to apply thin, even coats and cure them under a UV or LED lamp according to the manufacturer's instructions. Repeat this process until you achieve the desired opacity, usually requiring two or three coats.
Step 4: Dip the Sponge Applicator into the Sequins
Choose the sequins you want to use, which can be in the form of loose sequins, cosmetic glitter, or confetti. Dip the sponge applicator into the sequins. If you're using a sponge applicator set, you can cut the sponge to your desired shape and size to ensure precise application.
Step 5: Dab the Sequins onto Your Nails
Using a gentle dabbing motion, pat the sponge applicator onto your cured gel polish. The sequins will adhere to the tacky layer of gel polish. You can build up the intensity by repeating this process, layering the sequins until you achieve your desired look. Remember to work quickly, as the gel polish has a limited time frame during which it remains tacky.
Step 6: Seal with a Top Coat
Once you're happy with the amount of sequins on your nails, it's time to lock them in place. Apply a thin layer of top coat to each nail, sealing the sequins and creating a smooth finish. You can choose a regular or matte top coat, depending on your preference. Allow the top coat to dry completely.
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Using a dotting tool
If you are using a store-bought dotting tool or a DIY tool made with a straight pin, you can dip the tool into your chosen colour of nail polish and then apply it to your nails. If you are using a bobby pin, pull it open and then dip one end into the nail polish. For a DIY tool made with a paintbrush or makeup brush, simply flip the brush over and use the end of it. For a ballpoint pen, dip the end into the polish and apply as needed. If using a toothpick, hold it on your nail for a few seconds to allow the dot to grow. If you are using a Band-Aid, put it on your nail and then paint over it with the colour you want.
When using a dotting tool with nail polish, you can apply small dots of polish to your nails, wait a few seconds for the polish to become sticky, and then place the sequins onto the dots of polish. You can also use a dotting tool to pick up individual pieces of sequins and place them onto your nail. This method is especially useful for applying loose sequins or creating simple designs.
After applying your sequins, seal them in with a top coat to ensure they stay in place and last longer. You can use a clear top coat or choose a coloured or matte top coat to add a unique finish to your manicure.
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Applying a top coat
There are a few different types of top coats you can use, depending on the desired look and feel of your nails. If you're using a gel nail polish system, you'll need to use a gel top coat and cure it under a UV or LED lamp. This will give your manicure a long-lasting, high-shine finish. If you're not using a gel system, you can use a regular or matte top coat. A matte top coat will give your nails a more subtle, understated look, while a regular top coat will enhance the shine and sparkle of your sequins.
When applying the top coat, it's important to use a light touch. Start by dipping your nail brush into the top coat polish, then gently brush it over your nails, being careful not to disturb the sequins. Apply a thin, even layer, and avoid overloading your brush with polish to prevent dripping or pooling.
If you're using loose sequins, you may need to apply two layers of top coat to fully encapsulate and protect them. Allow the first layer to dry completely before applying the second. This will add extra shine and ensure your sequins are securely adhered to your nails.
For a truly long-lasting manicure, consider adding a layer of builder gel before your top coat. This will provide an extra layer of protection and help your manicure stay smooth and even.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a semi-cured gel strip, sequin glitter, a top coat, and an acrylic brush. You can also use nail glue or clear acrylic and a tiny nail brush to apply the sequins.
First, apply a gel strip as usual and cure it. Then, add the sequin glitter and cure again. Dab and push the sequins onto your nails. Finish with a top coat.
Yes, but it may take a bit more practice. Apply a base coat and two coats of colour, curing between each layer. Don't wipe off the tacky layer. Sprinkle the loose glitter over the nail and gently press it on. Buff the glitter into your nail using circular motions to help it stick.
You should use nail glitter, which is made specifically for application to nails. Regular glitter could be damaging to your nails.
