Gel Nails: Cnd's Step-By-Step Guide To A Perfect Manicure

how to do gel nails cnd

CND offers a range of gel nail products, including the CND Shellac Gel Nails and the CND Plexigel System. The former is a popular choice for those seeking long-lasting, high-shine nails, while the latter is a brush-in-a-bottle gel nail enhancement system that provides strength, length and shape for up to 3+ weeks. Both systems offer detailed, step-by-step guides for at-home manicures, ensuring that anyone can achieve salon-quality results. The guides cover everything from filing and shaping to curing and finishing, with tips and tricks for a flawless application and long-lasting wear. With CND's gel nail systems, you can have beautiful, healthy-looking nails that are strong, protected, and shaped to perfection.

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Using CND Shellac Gel Polish

CND Shellac Gel Polish is a popular choice for those wanting to do their gel nails at home. The process is simple and straightforward, and the results are long-lasting and beautiful. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to achieve perfect gel nails using CND Shellac products:

Preparation:

Before starting the application, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and products, including the CND Shellac Gel Polish, a CND LED Lamp, a nail file, and some pump bottles to store your liquids. It is also recommended to use a base coat and a top coat for optimal results.

Step 1 – Shaping:

Start by filing the edges of your nails with a 240-grit nail file to achieve the desired shape. With CND Shellac, you do not need to file your nail bed, which makes the process less damaging to your nails.

Step 2 – Base Coat:

Apply a thin coat of the CND Shellac Gel Base Coat to all five nails. Remember to apply each layer thinly and evenly for the best results.

Step 3 – Curing:

Cure your nails under the CND LED Lamp for 10 seconds using the preset button. Do not remove the top film layer after removing your nails from the lamp.

Step 4 – First Layer of Colour:

Apply a thin layer of CND Shellac nail polish to the nail plate and edge. If applied correctly, it should look slightly semi-sheer. Cure each hand for one minute in the CND LED Lamp, using the appropriate preset button. Again, do not remove the top film after curing.

Step 5 – Clean Up:

Before curing the Shellac, use a wooden cuticle stick to clean up any messy polish application on the cuticle or skin.

Step 6 – Second Layer of Colour:

Apply another thin layer of CND Shellac nail polish. This second layer will provide additional coverage and enhance the colour.

Step 7 – Top Coat:

Apply a thin layer of CND Shellac Top Coat to all five nails. Cure each hand for one minute in the CND LED Lamp, using the preset button.

Step 8 – Wipe Nails:

Wipe each nail clean with a lint-free nail wipe soaked in 99% alcohol. This step is crucial to achieving the full shine of the polish. After wiping, your nails should be dry, hard, and not tacky.

Step 9 – Cuticle Oil:

Finish the process by applying and massaging CND Solar cuticle oil into your nails. This will help combat any dryness caused by the gel polish and keep your cuticles healthy.

By following these steps and using CND Shellac products, you can achieve salon-quality gel nails at home. Remember to take your time, work in a well-ventilated area, and always read the instructions on the products before beginning the application process.

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Applying CND Plexigel Bonder

CND™ Plexigel Bonder is a bonding agent that anchors CND™ Plexigel to the natural nail, providing secure adhesion for 3+ weeks. It is the first step in the CND™ Plexigel System, which is used to anchor the Shaper or Builder gel to the natural nail. It prevents lifting and provides an attraction layer during sculpting.

To apply CND™ Plexigel Bonder, start by performing P.R.E.P. and ensure the nail is thoroughly cleansed. Remove any shine from the surface of the nail. Gently roll the bottle to blend. Dip the brush into the bottle, then press it against the edge of the bottle to drain. Brush on a thin, even layer of Bonder to all five nails, sealing the edge after each application. Cure for 10 seconds in the CND™ LED Lamp using preset button 1. Follow with CND™ Plexigel Shaper or Builder, depending on the chosen service.

It is important to note that CND™ Plexigel Bonder is designed to be used as a system, and proper protocol must be followed to ensure success. When using CND™ Shellac Gel Polish over CND™ Plexigel, apply the gel polish directly over the top film of the gel. If shaping or finishing is required, do that first, then remove dust and cleanse the surface with Top Finish (99% IPA). Then, go straight to the first layer of Shellac. Finish the Shellac application with a Shellac Top Coat, such as Original or Duraforce Top Coat.

For clear enhancements, finish with the CND™ Plexigel Protector Top Coat. When sculpting with CND™ Plexigel Shaper, apply two layers for best wear. The first layer should be thin for optimal control of comfort and adhesion, and the second layer should be applied as needed for each client.

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Using the CND LED Lamp

The CND LED Lamp is an essential tool for achieving the perfect gel nail manicure. It is used in conjunction with other CND products, such as the Shellac Gel Base Coat, nail polish, and Top Coat. The lamp helps to cure and set the gel polish, ensuring a long-lasting and glossy finish. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the CND LED Lamp to achieve professional-looking gel nails at home:

Prepare Your Nails

Before you start, it is important to prepare your nails. File your nails to the desired shape, ensuring you only file the edge and not the nail bed. This will help create a smooth surface for the gel polish to adhere to. You can use a 240-grit nail file for this step.

Apply the Base Coat

Apply a thin coat of the CND Shellac Gel Base Coat to all five nails. Remember to apply each layer thinly, as this is key to achieving a good result. Seal the edge of each nail after application, leaving a tiny free margin to avoid contact with the skin.

Cure with the CND LED Lamp

Now it's time to use the CND LED Lamp! Place your hand under the lamp and cure the base coat for 10 seconds using preset button 1. Do not remove the top film layer after removing your hand from the lamp.

Apply Nail Polish

Apply a thin layer of CND Shellac nail polish to the nail plate and edge. If applied correctly, it should appear slightly semi-sheer. Again, apply this to all five nails. You can use a colour of your choice, such as Rock Royalty, a popular CND Shellac shade.

Cure with the CND LED Lamp Again

With the nail polish applied, it's now time for another round of curing. Cure each hand for one minute using preset button 2S in the CND LED Lamp. As before, do not remove the top film layer after curing.

Clean Up and Moisturise

Before curing the final layer of topcoat, use a wooden cuticle stick to clean up any messy polish application on the cuticle or skin. Once you are satisfied, apply a thin layer of CND Shellac Top Coat to all five nails. Cure each hand for one minute using preset button 3 in the CND LED Lamp. After curing, wipe your nails with a lint-free nail wipe soaked in 99% alcohol to reveal a shiny finish. Finally, apply and massage CND Solar cuticle oil into your nails to keep them hydrated.

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Applying CND Shellac Top Coat

Applying a CND Shellac Top Coat is the final step in the process of achieving that perfect gel nail look. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to applying the CND Shellac Top Coat:

Firstly, it is important to prepare the nail. Filing the edge of the nail with a 240-grit nail file helps shape it, and with CND Shellac, you avoid filing the nail bed, making it a less damaging process.

Now, for the top coat application. Apply a thin layer of the CND Shellac Top Coat to five nails. Cure each hand for one minute in the CND LED Lamp (preset button 3). It is important to note that you should not remove the top film after removing your nails from the lamp.

The next step is to wipe each nail clean with a lint-free nail wipe soaked in 99% alcohol. This step is crucial to achieving the full shine of the top coat. It is important to note that the alcohol must be 99% to ensure the desired result. After wiping, the polish should be dry and hard, with no tackiness.

The final step is to apply and massage CND Solar cuticle oil onto the nails. This step helps to combat any dryness that may occur due to the use of CND Shellac.

By following these detailed steps, you can achieve a professional-looking, long-lasting CND Shellac gel manicure at home.

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Using CND Solar Oil

CND Solar Oil is a nail and cuticle conditioner that can be used to protect and nourish your nails and cuticles, preventing them from becoming brittle and dry. It is infused with jojoba oil and vitamin E, which help to create stronger and healthier nails. The product is designed to absorb deeply into the skin, delivering moisture, softness, and suppleness.

To use CND Solar Oil, follow these two simple steps:

  • Apply a small drop of the oil onto each nail, focusing on the cuticle area.
  • Using your fingertips, gently massage the oil into each nail and the surrounding skin. Ensure that the oil is evenly distributed across all nails.

For best results, it is recommended to use CND Solar Oil every day. It can be applied to natural nails, nail polish, and enhancements to keep them tough and flexible. The product is also non-greasy and has a pleasant almond scent.

CND Solar Oil is an excellent choice for those looking to strengthen their nails and improve the overall health of their hands. It is a favourite among nail professionals and is known for delivering beautiful and strong nails.

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