Sophia Delgado
There are several ways to do sparkle gel nails, whether it's using a salon-quality glitter polish or applying loose glitter to your gel nails. The latter method is a little more challenging but is still a straightforward process. To apply loose glitter, you should first trim and file your nails, then apply a gel cleanser and a thin coat of pre-gel primer. After leaving it to air dry, apply a thin layer of base coat to all the nails on one hand, curing it under a UV lamp for 1-2 minutes. Next, apply two thin layers of colour polish, sprinkling the glitter over the second layer while it's still tacky. You can use a sponge applicator or dotting tool to apply the glitter, or simply shake it directly onto your nails. Finally, clean around the nail, removing any excess glitter, and apply a medium-thick layer of top coat, curing for 2-3 minutes.
How to do sparkle gel nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Trim and file nails to the desired length |
| Step 2 | Wipe nails with a gel cleanser |
| Step 3 | Apply a thin coat of pre-gel primer and let it air dry for 30 seconds |
| Step 4 | Apply a thin layer of base coat to all nails on one hand |
| Step 5 | Cure under a UV lamp for 1-2 minutes |
| Step 6 | Apply a thin layer of your chosen colour polish to every nail on one hand |
| Step 7 | Cure for 1-2 minutes |
| Step 8 | Apply a second thin layer of colour polish |
| Step 9 | While the gel is still tacky, sprinkle glitter over it, trying to get an even coverage |
| Step 10 | Clean around the nail, removing any excess glitter using tissue and an orange stick |
| Step 11 | Apply a medium-thick layer of top coat and cure for 2-3 minutes |
| Step 12 | The nail will be tacky, use a cotton pad to wipe gel cleanser over the top of the nail to finish up |
| Step 13 | File the nails if there are any bits of stray glitter causing an uneven tip |
| Step 14 | Repeat steps 4-13 for the rest of the fingers on the same hand, then repeat the entire process for your other hand |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing your nails
The next step is to apply a thin coat of pre-gel primer to your nails and let it air dry for about 30 seconds. This will help the gel polish adhere better to your nails. After the primer has dried, it's time to apply a base coat. Brush on a thin layer of gel base coat to all your nails, being careful not to get any on your skin. If you do smudge it, use an orange stick to clean up the edges. Cure your nails under a UV LED lamp for 1-2 minutes. The longer you cure each layer, the longer your manicure will last.
Now your nails are prepared and ready for the gel polish and glitter application!
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Applying the base coat
Firstly, ensure your nails are properly cleaned and prepared. Wipe your nails with a gel cleanser to remove any dirt, oils, or residue. This step is crucial as it helps the base coat adhere better to your nails. You can use a cotton ball or pad soaked in gel cleanser and gently wipe each nail. Then, trim and file your nails to the desired length and shape. Use a nail file to gently shape the edges and create your preferred shape, such as square, round, or almond. Push back your cuticles using an orange stick or a cuticle pusher.
Next, apply a thin coat of pre-gel primer to each nail. The primer will help the base coat adhere better and promote longer-lasting results. Allow the primer to air dry for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to get any primer on your skin, as it can affect the adhesion of the gel products. If you do, use an orange stick to gently wipe away any excess primer from the skin surrounding your nails.
Now, it's time to apply the base coat. Brush on a thin layer of gel base coat to each nail, being careful not to get it on your skin. Again, if you accidentally apply base coat to your skin, use an orange stick to gently remove it before curing. The base coat will help create a smooth surface for the colour polish and glitter to adhere to. Cure your nails under a UV or LED lamp for 1-2 minutes. The longer you cure the base coat, the longer your manicure is likely to last.
If you are using loose glitter, there is an additional step before applying your colour polish. Dispense a small amount of base coat onto a mixing pallet and add your glitter. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency. You can adjust the consistency by adding more base coat if it becomes too dry or thick. This step ensures that your glitter application will be clump-free and easy to work with.
By following these steps, you will create a solid foundation for your sparkle gel nails. Remember to take your time, work on one hand at a time, and always ensure your nails are clean and prepared before applying any products. Now, you're ready to move on to the colour polish and glitter application!
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Adding the glitter
There are several methods for adding glitter to gel nails, depending on the type of glitter you are using.
Using loose glitter
If you are using loose glitter, you can sprinkle it over a thin coat of tacky gel polish. Pat it down gently with a fan-shaped brush, then blow off any excess. You can also use a fluffy nail art brush to dab the glitter onto your nail, ensuring full coverage. You can also use a makeup sponge or a dense, short-haired makeup brush to apply the glitter.
Using nail art glitter, cosmetic glitter, or extra-fine scrapbooking glitter
These types of glitter can be applied in the same way as loose glitter. However, you can also use a dotting tool to pick up individual pieces of glitter and place them onto your nail, gently pressing down to secure them into the gel polish.
Using a glitter gel nail polish
If you are using a glitter gel nail polish, you can simply apply it to your nails like regular gel polish.
Tips for using loose glitter
- If you are using loose glitter, it is important to use nail glitter that is specifically designed for nail applications. Regular glitter can be damaging to your nails.
- To create a smooth finish, use a thicker layer of top coat to encase the glitter.
- If you want a rough texture, use a thinner layer of the top coat.
- To create a sugared effect, apply a fine glitter to your finished nail before the top coat.
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Sealing the glitter
For a smooth finish, it is recommended to apply a medium to thick layer of clear gel top coat. Place your nails under a UV lamp for 2-3 minutes to cure the top coat. The thicker layer will help to encase the glitter and create a smooth surface. If you prefer a rough texture, you can opt for a thinner layer of the top coat.
To ensure that your glitter gel nails last longer and have a professional finish, it is important to clean up any excess glitter around the nail. Use a tissue or cotton pad along with an orange stick to gently remove any stray glitter. Pay close attention to the skin around your nails and ensure that all excess glitter is removed.
If you are using loose glitter, you can also apply cuticle oil after the top coat has cured. This will help to nourish your nails and cuticles, especially after the use of gel polish and UV lamps.
Additionally, you may need to file your nails slightly if there are any bits of stray glitter causing an uneven tip. This will help to create a neat and uniform finish to your glitter gel nails.
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Finishing touches
Now that you've applied your sparkle gel nails, it's time to add the finishing touches to ensure they look perfect and last long. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:
Step 1: Clean the Excess Glitter
Use a tissue or an orange stick to carefully clean around your nails, removing any excess glitter. Pay close attention to the skin around your nails to ensure all stray glitter is removed. This step will help create a neat and polished look.
Step 2: Apply the Top Coat
Apply a medium to thick layer of top coat to your nails. This step is crucial in encasing the 3D glitter and preventing a rough finish. Allow the top coat to cure for 2-3 minutes under the UV lamp. A thicker layer will result in smoother nails, while a thinner layer will create a rougher texture if that is the desired look.
Step 3: Wipe with Gel Cleanser
Even after curing, your nails might still feel tacky, which is normal. Use a cotton pad or cotton ball soaked in gel cleanser to wipe over the top of your nails. This will help remove any remaining stickiness and give your nails a clean, finished look.
Step 4: Final Touches
If needed, use a nail file to gently file any stray bits of glitter that may be causing an uneven tip. This will ensure your nails have a smooth and uniform finish. Additionally, if there are any areas with big gloopy bits of gel hanging off, use an orange stick to carefully clear up the edges and give them a neat appearance.
Step 5: Repeat for the Other Hand
If you haven't already, repeat the entire process for your other hand, following the same steps for applying the base coat, colour, glitter, and top coat. Remember to take your time and work on one hand at a time to avoid smudging or uneven application.
Your sparkle gel nails are now complete! Remember to allow your nails to cure properly and follow the aftercare instructions for gel nails to ensure they last for 2-4 weeks without any chipping or peeling. Enjoy your dazzling manicure!
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Frequently asked questions
First, clean, trim, and file your nails to the desired length. Then, wipe your nails with a gel cleanser and apply a thin coat of pre-gel primer. Leave this to air dry for 30 seconds.
Apply a thin layer of base coat to all the nails on one hand, being careful not to get any on your skin. If you do smudge any, use an orange stick to clear up the edges. Cure this under a UV lamp for 1-2 minutes.
Apply a thin layer of your chosen colour polish to every nail on one hand. Cure for 1-2 minutes. Then, apply a second thin layer of colour polish, just to your thumb this time. While the gel is still tacky, sprinkle glitter over it, trying your best to get an even coverage. You can use a sponge applicator, dotting tool, or fan-shaped brush to apply the glitter.
Clean around the nail, removing any excess glitter using tissue and an orange stick. Apply a medium-thick layer of top coat and cure for 2-3 minutes. The nail will still be tacky after curing, so use a cotton pad to wipe gel cleanser over the top of the nail to finish. You may also need to file the nails a little if you have any bits of stray glitter causing an uneven tip.
