Isla Bennett
Gel nail extensions are a popular alternative to acrylic nails, providing a similar look without the same risk of damage to the natural nail. While gel nails can be applied at home, it is important to be aware of the correct procedure to ensure the best results and avoid damage to the natural nail. This includes preparing the nail by cutting, filing, and cleaning, as well as using the correct products and tools, such as a UV or LED lamp, cuticle oil, nail buff, base coat, and gel nail polish.
Characteristics of Natural-Looking Gel Nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Opaque and white |
| Process | Cheaper at home than salon |
| Process | Requires a steady hand and patience |
| Process | Requires a UV or LED lamp, cuticle oil, nail buff, top coat, base coat, and gel nail polish |
| Process | Cut nails to equal lengths, file to smooth out rough edges |
| Process | Soak or wash hands, remove excess oil |
| Process | Buff entire nail from edge to edge |
| Process | Clean residue with alcohol wipe |
| Process | Apply gel base coat, cure nails in UV lamp |
| Products | Brightening polish, whitening pencil, Ciate - Bloom Boost |
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What You'll Learn
Prep nails by cutting and filing
Before you start the gel process, it's important to prep your nails by cutting and filing them. This will ensure that your nails are all equal lengths and will create a smooth canvas for the gel application. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving well-prepped nails:
Start by gathering your tools. You will need a good pair of nail clippers and a nail file. It is recommended to use a glass nail file as it is gentler on the nails and creates a smoother finish compared to traditional emery boards.
Next, cut your nails to your desired length, ensuring that they are all equal. It is best to cut them a little longer than you want them, as you can always file them down more, but you can't add length back once they're cut! Take your time and be careful not to cut them too short or at uneven lengths.
After cutting your nails, use your nail file to shape and smooth the edges. File in one direction only, from the outside towards the centre of the nail, to avoid causing any damage or splitting to your nails. Again, be gentle and take your time to achieve a smooth, consistent shape.
Once your nails are filed, you can use a nail buff to buff your entire nail from edge to edge. Buffing helps remove any remaining ridges and natural oils on your nails, which can cause your gel manicure to lift or not last as long. Remember to clean up any residue and oils with an alcohol wipe after buffing.
Finally, apply a cuticle oil to your cuticles and gently push them back. This will help soften your cuticles and prepare them for the gel application. Don't forget to wash or soak your hands afterward and swipe your nails with acetone to ensure that all excess oil is removed before you begin the gel process.
By following these steps, you will have well-prepped nails that are ready for your gel manicure. Remember to take your time and be gentle throughout the process to achieve the best results.
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Use cuticle oil
Using cuticle oil is an important step in any nail care routine, especially when it comes to gel nails. Cuticle oils help to nourish and moisturise the skin around your nails, promoting healthy nail growth. Almond oil is a popular choice for a cuticle oil due to its natural properties and quick absorption. Other options include grapeseed and sunflower oils, which can also be blended to create a nourishing formula.
It is important to note that while cuticle oil can be used with gel nails, it should not be applied directly before the gel polish, as this can cause the gel to lift. Instead, it should be used as part of your regular nail care routine to maintain nail health and hydration. This will also help to prolong the life of your manicure.
When it comes to application, cuticle oil can come in a variety of forms, including a dropper, rollerball, or brush pen. Each has its own benefits – a dropper is great for an all-over application, while a rollerball is convenient for on-the-go touch-ups.
It is recommended to use cuticle oil daily to keep your cuticles hydrated, but be mindful not to overdo it. Using cuticle oil too frequently can also cause the gel to lift, especially if it contains mineral oil. Once or twice a week is usually enough to maintain healthy nails without interfering with your gel manicure.
In summary, cuticle oil is an excellent way to keep your nails and the skin around them healthy and hydrated, which is essential for achieving a natural look with your gel nails.
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Buff nails
Buffing your nails is a great way to enhance their natural look and create a glossy finish without the need for nail polish. This technique has gained popularity as a chic "anti-manicure", with many opting for the natural sheen of a bare, buffed nail.
Buffing is the process of smoothing the surface of the nails using a buffing block or nail buffer. It helps remove ridges, uneven surfaces, and any imperfections on the nail plate, resulting in a smooth and shiny surface. The process typically involves using a four-sided buffer with different fabric surfaces to create different finishes. Start with the slightly rougher side (marked as 1) to gently exfoliate the nail surface, and work your way up to the smoother sides to polish and shine.
To buff your nails effectively, hold the buffer parallel to your nail. Place the large grit side of the buffer on your nail and use unidirectional strokes to buff in an X shape. Ensure that each stroke goes either downwards or upwards, and use light pressure. Over-buffing can damage your nails, so limit yourself to six to eight strokes per nail.
After buffing, you can add a final shine by using the smooth side of the buffer. Move it in tiny circular motions over the entire nail surface until you achieve the desired gloss. You can further enhance the shine and moisture by applying cuticle oil to the skin bordering each nail and massaging it into your cuticles.
Buffing your nails not only improves their appearance but also promotes nail health. It provides a simple and minimalist approach to nail care, creating a natural and polished look without the need for intricate designs or colourful polishes.
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Apply gel base coat
To apply a gel base coat, you will need a UV or LED lamp, a cuticle oil, a nail buff, a top coat, a base coat, and gel nail polish. Before applying the base coat, ensure your nails are prepped and ready. Start by cutting your nails to ensure they are all equal lengths, then file to smooth out any rough edges. A glass nail file is ideal for achieving a smooth finish.
Next, apply cuticle oil to your nails. This is an important part of nail preparation. Once you have applied the cuticle oil, gently push back your cuticles. After this, wash or soak your hands to ensure that any excess oil is removed. Any leftover oil could cause your gel nails to lift. To be extra cautious, swipe your nails with a bit of acetone before washing your hands to remove any remaining oil.
Buff your entire nail from edge to edge to prevent the natural oils on your nails from building up and shortening the lifespan of your gel manicure. After buffing, clean up any residue and remaining oils with an alcohol wipe.
Now, you can apply a generous layer of the gel base coat. This is the foundation for your gel manicure. After applying the base coat, cure your nails in your UV lamp for up to 30 seconds. The time required may differ depending on the type of lamp you have, so be sure to read the instructions carefully before you begin.
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Cure nails in a UV lamp
Curing your nails under a UV lamp is an essential step in the gel manicure process. This is because the UV or LED lamp seals and hardens the gel nail polish, allowing the molecules in the gel polish to bond together and form a solid layer of colour. This process is known as polymerisation. Without it, the molecules in the gel won't bond together, and your manicure will remain soft and susceptible to damage.
There are a few things to keep in mind when curing your nails under a UV lamp. Firstly, make sure you are using a compatible gel polish and lamp. Using different brands together may result in under-curing, which can damage your nails. You should also ensure your nails are strong enough for a gel manicure. If your nails are too weak, they can bend and cause the polish to pull away. Use products like cuticle oil, moisturiser, and nail defence to improve their strength.
Before curing, you need to prepare your nails. Start by gently buffing the entire surface of each nail with a nail buffer. You want to create a dull, slightly rough surface, so buff in one direction, being thorough and paying attention to the sides and around the cuticle. After buffing, clean your nails with nail polish remover to remove any residual oil or dust, which could reduce adhesion.
When curing your nails, follow the manufacturer's instructions for timing. Curing times can vary depending on your nail type and the lamp used, from a few seconds to several minutes. For example, thicker coats may require 120 seconds under the lamp. Remember to cure your base coat, each layer of colour, and finally, the top coat. Use thin layers of colour and cure between each layer until you reach the desired opacity.
UV lamps can be damaging to your skin, so it is important to protect your hands. Apply sunscreen or wear UV-absorbent gloves when curing your nails.
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Frequently asked questions
To make gel nails look natural at home, you will need a UV or LED lamp, a cuticle oil, a nail buff, a top coat, a base coat, and gel nail polish. Start by cutting your nails to equal lengths, then file to smooth out any rough edges. Use a glass nail file for a smooth finish. Next, apply cuticle oil to your nails and gently push back your cuticles. Wash or soak your hands afterward, ensuring that there is no oil left on your nails. You can also swipe your nails with acetone to remove excess oil. Buff your entire nail from edge to edge to prevent the buildup of natural oils, then clean up any residue with an alcohol wipe. Apply a generous layer of gel base coat and cure your nails in your UV lamp for up to 30 seconds.
To achieve a natural look, opt for a brightening polish or a clear polish with a purple tint to neutralize any yellowing. You can also try a whitening pencil or a white pencil underneath your nails. Additionally, a nail brush with whitening toothpaste can help make your nails look brighter and cleaner. For a natural solution, lemon juice and baking soda can also be effective, but be cautious if you have any cuts around your cuticles.
Gel nail extensions provide the look of long, acrylic nails but are much lighter and healthier for your natural nails. They are made with a molecule called an oligomer, which gives them a honey-like consistency. Gel extensions are sculpted, cured, and then shaped to add length and strength. They are a good option if you want long nails but struggle to grow them yourself. Gel nails are also more durable and long-lasting compared to regular nail polish, even with a gel top coat.
