Caleb Foster
Gel nail polish is a special type of polish that requires a UV lamp to cure and set. The process is similar to that of a salon manicure, and with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can achieve long-lasting, salon-quality results at home. This can save you significant money in the long run, as a single gel nail polish bottle can last for 20-30 manicures. In addition to the standard base coat, colour coat, and top coat, you will need a nail lamp, acetone, and other tools to shape and prepare your nails. You can even create your own custom nail polish colour by combining a ready-to-use polish base with your own blend of mineral colourants.
How to Make Gel Nail Polish from Scratch
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Required Supplies | Gel base coat, gel top coat, nail lamp, acetone, nail buffer, rubbing alcohol, PH bond, cuticle remover, nail file, cotton pads, nail polish soak-off clip, steel cuticle remover and scraper, cuticle clipper, cuticle oil/moisturizer, orange stick/cuticle pusher, curing lamp |
| Benefits | Cost-effective, creative freedom, healthier for nails |
| Process | File nails, apply cuticle remover, buff nails, apply base coat, apply thin layer of color gel polish, cure under lamp, repeat for additional coats, apply top coat, cure under lamp |
| Removal | Gently file the surface of the gel polish, soak nails in acetone, push off gel polish, buff nails, apply cuticle oil or moisturizer |
| Tips | Use a thin layer of polish, avoid getting polish on cuticles, use a good base coat and top coat |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a nail polish kit
When choosing a nail polish kit, it is important to consider your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your selection:
Cost
The cost of at-home gel nail kits can vary depending on the brand, quality, and number of included items. Some kits are more affordable, such as the SensatioNail Gel Starter Kit, which offers a solid and cost-effective choice. On the other hand, some kits may be more expensive but offer salon-quality experiences, like the S&L Gel Nail Polish Starter Kit.
Quality and Durability
Look for a kit that provides long-lasting results. Some kits offer manicures that last up to two weeks without chipping, such as the Olive & June The Gel Mani System and the Morovan Nail Kit. The S&L Gel Nail Polish Starter Kit claims to provide a high-gloss and shiny finish that lasts up to 2-3 weeks without chipping or peeling.
Ease of Use
Consider your level of experience and choose a kit with clear and easy-to-follow instructions. While some kits may have a learning curve, they should ideally come with comprehensive instructions or how-to booklets. The SensatioNail Gel Starter Kit, for instance, has been described as having confusing instructions, but users expect the process to be easier the second time.
Content of the Kit
Ensure that the kit includes all the necessary tools for both the application and removal of gel polish. Some kits may require additional purchases for removal, like the Morovan's Poly Gel Kit, which recommends a separate gel removal system. The S&L Gel Nail Polish Starter Kit stands out in this regard, as it includes everything needed for application, removal, and aftercare.
Color Options
If you prioritize having a variety of color options, look for kits that offer multiple shades or the freedom to choose your own colors. The Morovan's Poly Gel Kit, for example, includes eight polish shades, while the Olive & June The Gel Mani System allows you to choose six polishes of your choice. The S&L Gel Nail Polish Starter Kit also allows customers to choose any gel color they want with the kit.
Additional Features
Some kits may offer unique features that enhance your experience. For instance, the S&L Gel Nail Polish Starter Kit includes a compact and travel-friendly 24W LED/UV lamp, addressing a common issue found in other nail lamps. The Morovan's Poly Gel Kit comes with a patented Poppy device, making it easier to paint nails with your non-dominant hand.
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Preparing your nails
Clip and Shape Your Nails: Start by clipping your nails to your desired length. Then, use a nail file to shape them. You can choose a shape that suits your preference and lifestyle; for example, the round shape is easy to maintain and looks natural, while the almond shape is more trendy, especially if you have long nails.
Buff Your Nails: Use a nail buffer to buff the tops of your nails gently. This will help remove the shine and create a rough surface for better adhesion of the gel polish. Be careful not to over-buff, as this can damage your nails.
Push and Care for Your Cuticles: Apply a cuticle remover to your cuticles and leave it on for the recommended time. Then, use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles. You can also use a cuticle remover liquid and a steel cuticle remover or scraper to remove excess cuticles. Be careful not to cut or push too aggressively, as this can be painful and cause damage.
Clean Your Nails: Rinse your hands with water (avoid using soap) and remove any dead skin or residue. Ensure your nails are completely clean and dry before proceeding to the next step.
Apply a Base Coat: Once your nails are prepared, it's time to apply a base coat. This step is crucial, as it helps the gel polish adhere better and creates a smooth surface for the colour to be applied. Apply a thin layer of the base coat gel polish and cure it under a UV lamp for at least 2 minutes.
Remember, taking the time to prepare your nails properly will ensure a more flawless and long-lasting gel manicure.
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Applying the base coat
Firstly, ensure your nails are clean and dry. It is important to remove any residual polish and smooth out the nail surface using a nail buffer. This step helps the base coat adhere better to your nails. You can also apply a cuticle remover liquid to your cuticles and push them down using a cuticle pusher or orange stick. If needed, use a nail file to shape your nails to the desired length and form.
Next, select a quality gel base coat product. You can choose any brand, as long as it is specifically designed for gel nail polishes. Apply a very thin layer of the base coat gel polish to your nails. Be careful to avoid getting the gel on your cuticles, as this can cause the polish to peel off faster. A thin layer ensures a neat application and better adhesion to the nail surface.
Once you have applied the base coat, it is time to cure your nails under a UV lamp. Place your hand, with the palm facing up, parallel to the table for 3-5 seconds. Then, cure your nails under the lamp for approximately 2 minutes or 120 seconds. This timing may vary slightly depending on the brand of gel polish you are using, so always read the instructions on the product for the best results.
After curing, inspect your nails to ensure the base coat has dried and set properly. If needed, apply a second thin layer of the base coat and cure again under the lamp for the same duration. A proper base coat application will help your gel nail polish colour adhere better and last longer. It also provides a smooth canvas for the colour coat, enhancing the overall finish and longevity of your gel manicure.
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Applying the nail colour
Before applying the nail colour, ensure your nails are clean and dry. It is important to remove any residual polish or natural oils from your nails, as they can prevent the gel polish from adhering properly. Use a nail buffer to smooth out the surface of your nails and create a clean base. You can also use a nail file to gently buff the tops of your nails, removing a small amount of the top layer to enhance the adhesion of the gel polish.
Next, apply a thin layer of cuticle remover liquid onto your cuticles and gently push them back using a cuticle pusher or an orange stick. Be careful not to cut or damage your cuticles, as this can affect the overall appearance of your manicure.
Now, you are ready to apply the gel nail colour. Start by applying a thin layer of base coat gel polish onto your nails. This step is crucial, as it helps the gel colour adhere better and creates a smooth surface for the colour to glide on. Cure the base coat under a UV lamp for about 2 minutes.
After the base coat is cured, it's time to apply the colour. Choose your desired gel nail polish colour and apply a thin layer to each nail, being careful to avoid getting any polish on your cuticles. Again, curing each layer under the lamp for 2 minutes. Repeat this step for two or three coats, depending on the opacity you desire. Remember, it is essential to keep the layers as thin as possible to ensure a neat and long-lasting manicure.
Finally, seal your nail colour with a top coat. Apply a thin layer of the top coat gel polish, covering the tips of your nails, just like you did with the colour. Cure the top coat under the lamp for another 2 minutes. This final step will protect your gel manicure, adding a hard, protective coating that shields your nails from chips and scratches, ensuring your manicure stays fresh and glossy for longer.
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Applying the top coat
Before applying the top coat, make sure your nails are clean and dry. It is also important to ensure that you do not have any residue or excess skin on your nails, as this can cause the polish to peel off faster. You can use a nail buffer to smooth out the surface of your nails and remove any residual polish.
When you are ready to apply the top coat, start by painting a thin layer over the tip of your nails, just like you did with your colour gel polish. Be careful not to get any of the top coat on your skin or cuticles, as this can also cause the polish to lift and peel. Use a toothpick to wipe away any small amounts of polish from your cuticles.
Once you have applied the top coat, it is time to cure it under a lamp. Place your hand under the lamp, with your palm facing up, and leave it there for 120 seconds. This will help the top coat dry and harden, creating a protective shield over your nail polish.
After curing, your gel manicure should be complete! You can now show off your freshly painted nails with confidence, knowing that they are protected from chips and scratches. Enjoy your long-lasting and glossy gel manicure!
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a ready-to-use polish base, your own blend of mineral colorants, empty nail polish bottles with tops and nail polish mixing balls, miniature funnels, popsicle sticks or miniature scoops, and cosmetic glitter.
First, place the nail polish mixing balls into the empty polish bottles, and insert a miniature funnel into the bottle’s neck. Next, use a popsicle stick or a miniature scoop to add glitter or colorants to the funnel.
First, apply a thin coat of base and cure in a UV lamp for 60 seconds. Then, apply a coat of your desired color and cure in the UV lamp for another 60 seconds. Repeat this up to three times, depending on the color you're using. Finally, apply the top coat and cure it under the lamp for 120 seconds.
