Sophia Delgado
Achieving the perfect gel ink nails at home can be a challenging task, but with the right tools, knowledge of the steps involved, and plenty of practice, anyone can become a pro. Doing your own gel nails can save you time and money, and spare you the occasional rude nail technician. This introduction will cover the basics of gel ink nail preparation, application, and removal, as well as provide tips for cleaning and maintaining your gel nails.
How to do gel ink nails:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Supplies | Nail buffer, rubbing alcohol, PH bond, base and top coat, gel nail polish, nail polish remover, acetone, nail polish soak off clip, steel cuticle remover and scraper, nail wraps, nail stickers, UV light, nail file, removal oil, press-on nails, nail clippers, cotton pads, cotton balls, hairspray, gloves |
| Steps | Clip and file nails, buff tops of nails, rinse hands with water, apply PH bond, apply thin layer of base coat and cure under light, apply gel polish and cure, scrape off gel polish if necessary, apply nail stickers, cure nails under UV light, file to smooth edges, apply top coat of clear gel polish, remove with removal oil, prevent stains by wearing gloves and avoiding harsh detergents and soaps, cover nails in the sun |
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What You'll Learn
Getting the right supplies
Gel ink nails are a fun way to express yourself and can be done at home. While it may be intimidating at first, with the right tools and practice, you can achieve salon-grade results. Here is a list of supplies you will need to get started:
Nail Buffer
A nail buffer is used to smooth and polish your nails, creating an even surface for the gel ink to be applied. It is important to ensure that your nails are smooth and free of any jagged edges before beginning the gel ink application process.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is an important part of the gel ink nail process. It is used to clean and prepare the nails by removing any oils or residue that may prevent the gel ink from adhering properly. It is also useful for cleaning your nails and removing any stains or marks that may occur during the application process.
PH Bond, Base, and Top Coat
A PH bond is applied to the nails to help them dry out and create a better surface for the gel ink to adhere to. A base coat is then applied to provide a smooth and even surface for the gel ink. Finally, a top coat is added for shine and protection, giving your gel ink nails a professional finish.
Gel Nail Polish
Choose a gel nail polish in your desired colour or colours. It is recommended to apply thin coats of polish and cure them under a UV light for the best results. You may also want to invest in a nail polish remover and cotton pads or balls for any necessary clean-up during the application process.
UV Light
A UV light is used to cure and harden the gel nail polish. This is an essential part of the gel ink nail process, as it helps to set the polish and ensure that it lasts longer without chipping or smudging. Inexpensive UV lights are available for purchase, and they can also be found for free with certain promotional codes.
Nail File
A nail file is used to shape your nails and smooth any edges. It is an important tool to have, as it helps to create a neat and polished look for your gel ink nails.
Other Supplies
Depending on your specific needs and preferences, you may also want to invest in additional supplies such as nail wraps or press-on nails. Nail wraps, such as the Vanity Table Ohora or Dashing Diva Glaze, can protect your nails and provide added strength. Press-on nails are a convenient alternative to traditional gel ink nails and can be found without the use of liquid glue, reducing potential chemical exposure.
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Preparing your nails
Clip and File: Start by clipping your nails to your desired length. Use a nail file to shape them, gently smoothing the free edge to prevent any jaggedness. It is important not to file too much, as a slightly rough surface will help the gel polish adhere better.
Remove Shine and Dehydrate: Using an e-file and a medium grit arbor band, gently remove the shine from the surface of your nails. Be careful not to dig into the nail surface; instead, use a feathering motion. Cleanse your nails with a product like Swipe liquid or rubbing alcohol to remove any oils. You can also use an acetone-soaked cotton pad and gently dab your nails to ensure they are completely clean and dry.
Apply Nail Strengthener (Optional): If you wish, you can apply a nail strengthener before proceeding. This step can help protect your nails, especially if they are weak or prone to damage.
Push Back Cuticles: Gently push back your cuticles using a cuticle stick or an orange wood stick. Be careful not to cut or trim your cuticles, as this can lead to pain and infection.
Buff the Nails: Lightly buff the tops of your nails to create a slightly rough surface. This step will help the gel polish adhere better and ensure a longer-lasting manicure.
Remember, preparing your nails is a crucial step in achieving the best results. Taking your time with each step will ensure a smooth canvas for your gel polish application and help you get one step closer to achieving salon-quality nails at home.
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Applying the base coat
To apply the base coat, start by clipping your nails to the desired length. Then, use a nail file to shape them and smooth the edges. It is important to ensure that your nails are not too smooth, as this can prevent the gel from adhering properly. Next, use a nail buffer to buff the tops of your nails, removing a small amount of the top layer. This will help the gel polish to stick better. Remember to rinse your hands with water and remove any dead skin, ensuring your nails are completely clean. You can also use an e-file with a medium grit arbor band to gently remove the shine from the surface of your nails. Just be sure to use a feathering motion so you don't dig into the nail surface.
After preparing your nails, it's time to apply the base coat. Paint on a PH or Protein Bond to help your nails dry out and improve the adhesion of the gel polish. Then, apply an extremely thin layer of the base coat gel polish. Remember, the thinner the layer, the better. Cure your nails under a UV light for 60 to 120 seconds. If you are sensitive to the heat of the UV light, keep your hand in front of the light for 30-40 seconds before curing to avoid discomfort.
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Applying the gel polish
Next, buff the tops of your nails to take off a bit of the top layer. This will help the gel polish to adhere better. Rinse your hands with water (no soap) and remove all of the dead skin, then dry your hands and nails thoroughly. You can also use an alcohol swab to wipe your nails clear and let them dry for 5 minutes.
Now you are ready to apply the gel polish. Paint on a thin layer of the base coat gel polish and cure your nails under a UV light for 60-120 seconds. Remember to make this layer as thin as possible to avoid a mess. If you get the polish on your skin, use some acetone to wipe it away.
After curing, apply one or two coats of the gel polish colour of your choice, curing between coats. Again, remember to make each layer as thin as possible. Finish with a hand file and cleanse with Swipe liquid to remove oils.
Finally, apply a top coat of clear gel polish for added shine and cure your nails under the UV light for a final time.
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Removing the gel polish
Removing gel polish can be done at home, but if you are struggling to remove a mark or blemish, it is best to turn to the professionals. Most nail salons will be happy to help, and some may even do it for free or at a low cost.
If you are removing the gel polish yourself, you will need to start by cutting your cotton pads into four pieces and soaking each of them with acetone. Buff the top of each nail to remove the shine, then cover your nail with the cotton pad and a nail polish soak-off clip. Keep this in place for 15 minutes. After this, you can start to scrape off the gel polish with a steel cuticle remover and scraper.
If you want to remove an ink stain from your gel nails, you can moisten a cotton ball with either nail polish remover or isopropyl alcohol. Gently dab the affected area until the blemish fades away. Be careful not to scrub too hard! This method is best used as soon as you notice the discolouration, as it may not be as effective otherwise. If this doesn't work, try spraying the area with hairspray and then gently dabbing.
To avoid damaging your nails, it is important to keep them covered when out in the sun, as UV rays can cause fading, discolouration, and damage. It is also recommended to wear gloves when cleaning to keep household chemicals away from your nails and to avoid contact with harsh detergents and soaps.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a nail buffer, rubbing alcohol, PH bond, a base and top coat, gel nail polish, a nail file, acetone, nail polish remover clips, a steel cuticle remover and scraper, a UV lamp, and a nail drier.
First, clip your nails to the desired length and use a nail file to shape them. Next, buff the tops of your nails to remove the top layer, which will help the gel polish adhere better. Rinse your hands with water and remove any dead skin, ensuring your nails are completely clean.
Paint on a thin layer of PH Bond to help your nails dry. Then, apply a thin layer of the base coat gel polish and cure it under a UV light for 60-120 seconds. Apply one coat of gel polish and cure it under the light. If you get polish on your skin, use acetone to wipe it away. Finally, apply a top coat of clear gel polish for added shine.
