Sophia Delgado
Solid gel nail polish is a highly-pigmented, long-lasting, and easy-to-use alternative to traditional gel nail polish. Solid gel nail polish is known for its thick, cream-like consistency, which makes it easier to apply and design. The process of applying solid gel nail polish involves several steps, including nail preparation, applying a base coat, the gel colour, and a top coat. The longevity of the manicure depends on proper aftercare, avoiding harsh chemicals, and prolonged water exposure. Solid gel nail polish offers versatility in creating single-colour applications, nail art, and designs such as ombre and blooming. With proper application and care, solid gel nail polish can provide a durable and stylish manicure for up to three weeks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Push back cuticles, apply cuticle remover, clean nails, apply cuticle oil, massage cuticles, buff nails, wash and dry hands |
| Base coat | Apply an even layer of base coat gel polish to entire nail, cure under a lamp for 60 seconds (LED) or 120 seconds (UV) |
| Gel colour | Apply a thin layer of gel polish, ensure even coverage, cure under a lamp for 30 seconds (LED) or 2 minutes (UV) |
| Nail art | Create designs using different colours and techniques |
| Top coat | Apply a top coat and cure for 60 seconds |
| Longevity | Up to 21 days with proper care |
| Removal | File nails, soak in nail remover, push off gel polish, clip and file nails, rehydrate with cuticle oil |
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What You'll Learn
Nail preparation
Start by filing and shaping your nails to your desired length and shape. This creates a smooth surface for the gel polish to adhere to. Use a nail file to gently buff the surface of your nails, removing any ridges or uneven areas. This step helps to ensure a smooth and even application of the gel polish.
Next, push back your cuticles. Use a metal cuticle pusher to gently push back the cuticles on each nail. This step is crucial as it creates a clean and smooth nail bed for the gel polish application. You can also apply a cuticle remover if needed to further clean and smooth the nail surface.
After cuticle care, it is important to clean your nails. Wash your hands with soap and water to remove any dirt, oil, or residue. Dry your hands and nails thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.
Now, you can apply cuticle oil. Massage a small amount of cuticle oil into your cuticles and the surrounding skin. This step helps to nourish and moisturize the area, ensuring that your manicure looks neat and healthy.
Finally, buff your nails once more. Use a gentle nail buffer to create a completely smooth surface on your nails. This step helps the gel polish adhere better and creates a flawless finish. Remember to remove any dust created during the buffing process before moving on to the next step, which is applying the base coat.
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Applying a base coat
Once your nails are prepped, it's time to apply the base coat. Remove the brush from the bottle and wipe off any excess product. Then, brush the base coat onto each nail, making sure to cover the entire nail, including the free edge. Be sure to apply a thin, even layer to each nail.
After applying the base coat, it's time to cure it. Cure the base coat under an LED lamp for 30 seconds to one minute, or under a UV lamp for two minutes. If you're using an NSI brand lamp and polish, refer to their instructions, which recommend curing for 30 seconds under LED or two minutes under UV light.
If you're using a solid gel polish as your base colour, you can now take an oval nail brush and scoop up a small amount of product. Apply this directly to your nails, using the thick consistency to create precise designs. If you're using a regular gel polish, you can paint your chosen colour over the cured base coat and cure it again under the lamp.
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Applying the gel colour
Firstly, prepare your solid gel polish of choice. Using a flat, even brush, dampen it with a small amount of gel top or base coat. This step will help you achieve a smooth and streak-free finish. Next, use the flattened side of your brush to gather a small amount of solid gel polish. Apply this to your nail enhancement surface or directly to your nails, depending on the type of gel polish you are using.
When applying the gel colour, start by placing the gel near your cuticle line. Leave a slight margin, then pull the product forward towards the free edge. Ensure you cover the entire nail with a thin, even layer of gel. Cure your nails under an appropriate lamp. If using an LED lamp, cure for 30 seconds, or for UV lamps, cure for 2 minutes.
If you desire a more opaque colour coverage, simply repeat the previous step. Apply a second layer of your chosen solid gel polish, curing again under the lamp. After achieving your desired colour, finish with a top coat to seal the deal. Cure your nails one last time under the lamp, completing the process.
Remember, the longevity of your manicure depends on proper aftercare. Avoid harsh chemicals or constant water exposure, as these can cause premature lifting and peeling. With the right care, your solid gel polish manicure can last for up to 3 weeks.
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Creating nail art
Prepare Your Nails
Start by pushing back your cuticles with a metal cuticle pusher. Apply a cuticle remover if needed to create a clean and smooth surface for your polish to adhere to. You can also file and shape your nails to your desired length and shape.
Base Coat
Apply a base coat gel polish to your entire nail. This will help your manicure stay put for longer. Cure the base coat under a Pro LED lamp for 60 seconds or 120 seconds if you're using a UV lamp.
Choose Your Polish
At this point, you can choose to use either regular gel polish or solid gel polish for your base colour. If you opt for regular gel polish, paint your chosen colour over the cured base coat and cure again under the lamp for 60 seconds. If you're using solid gel polish, take an oval nail brush and scoop up a small amount of product. Apply it directly to your nails, being careful to keep the application within your nail bed.
Get Creative
Now comes the fun part – creating your nail art designs! Due to its thicker consistency, solid gel polish is excellent for precise designs. You can use it to create various looks, from mandala-inspired nail art to pastel nail art. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colours, techniques, and combinations of regular and solid gel polish to find what works best for you.
Top Coat
Once you're happy with your nail art, seal it all in with a top coat. Cure your nails under the lamp for another 60 seconds to finish and protect your design.
With these steps, you can create long-lasting and beautiful nail art designs. Remember to care for your nails properly after application to ensure the longevity of your manicure. Avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged soaking of your nails in water to prevent premature lifting and peeling of the polish.
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Sealing with a top coat
Sealing your nail art with a top coat is the final step in applying solid gel nail polish. This step ensures your nail art stays put and lasts longer. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to sealing with a top coat:
Before applying the top coat, ensure your nail art is completely dry. It is crucial to let each layer of polish dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step. Once your nail art is dry, it's time to move on to the top coat. Take your chosen top coat and, using a flat, even brush, dampen it slightly with the product. A flat brush will help you achieve an even layer without any streaks.
Scrape the excess product off the brush onto a surface before applying it to your nails. This ensures you don't apply too much top coat, which can cause smudging or uneven coverage. Gently apply the top coat to your nails, being careful not to overload the brush or apply too much pressure. Use gentle, nail polish-like strokes to ensure an even application.
Cover the entire nail surface, including the free edge, with a thin, even layer of the top coat. Allow a little room at the cuticle line, and pull the product forward towards the free edge. Cap the free edge by applying the top coat slightly under the tip of your nail, sealing in the colour. Cure your nails under an LED lamp for 30 seconds or a UV lamp for 2 minutes.
Finish by removing the tacky dispersion layer that forms after curing with a nail wipe saturated with cleanser. Finally, condition your cuticles and the surrounding skin with a nourishing cuticle oil. This will help keep your cuticles healthy and moisturised. Following these steps will ensure your solid gel nail polish stays intact and looks flawless for up to 3 weeks.
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Frequently asked questions
Start by pushing back your cuticles with a metal cuticle pusher and apply cuticle remover to create a clean, smooth surface for your polish to adhere to. Clean your nails well, apply cuticle oil, massage and push the cuticles. Once done, buff your nails. Now, wash your hands and dry them properly.
A flat, even brush is the best choice for solid gel polishes. Make sure to dampen the brush with a little gel top coat or gel base coat to help you get an even layer with no streaks. Take an oval nail brush and scoop up a small amount of solid gel polish and apply directly to your nails.
With proper care, solid gel nail polish can last up to 21 days. Avoid using harsh chemicals or constantly soaking your nails in water to prevent premature lifting and peeling.
To remove solid gel nail polish, file the nail surface and buff off any residue. Soak your nails in nail polish remover for 5-10 minutes, then push the gel polish away with a cuticle pusher.
