Caleb Foster
Dashing Diva gel nail strips are a popular, inexpensive, and long-lasting alternative to a gel manicure. Each box contains 32 strips, a prep pad, a nail file, and instructions. The strips are made with 70% semi-cured gel and are designed to be cured under an LED lamp. The application process is straightforward, and the strips can be easily removed without damaging your nails. To apply the strips, you should start by cleansing your nails with an alcohol wipe and pushing back your cuticles. Next, select the correct strip size for each nail and firmly press it onto your nail from the centre outwards. Finally, use a nail file to smooth out the edges of the strip.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | $8 per set |
| Number of Strips | 32-34 per box |
| Contents | Nail strips, nail file, instruction sheet, prep pad/wipe, wooden manicure stick |
| Preparation | Cleanse nail bed with rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover, trim and file nails |
| Application | Butt strip against base of nail, push down center, then sides, cut off excess, fold over tip, file |
| Protection | Avoid exposing nails to household cleaners, harsh chemicals, or prolonged water exposure |
| Storage | Reseal bag with straight iron, store in freezer |
| Removal | Apply cuticle oil, peel off corner, roll strips off, can also use acetone or Dashing Diva Magic Off Nail Remover |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing your nails
Trim and File Your Nails: Start by trimming your nails to your desired length. It is recommended to keep them slightly longer than you usually would, as this allows for any wear and tear at the tips in the coming days. File your nails gently, avoiding back-and-forth motions, to smooth out any rough edges.
Clean Your Nails: Use a prep pad or a cotton round soaked in rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover to cleanse your nail bed. This step is important as it removes any oils, lotions, or soap residue from your nails, ensuring better adhesion for the nail strips.
Push Back Your Cuticles: Using a wooden manicure stick or an orange wood stick, gently push back your cuticles as far as possible. Cuticles can interfere with the seal of the nail strips, so it is important to ensure they are pushed back neatly.
Choose the Right Size: Dashing Diva nail strip kits come with a variety of sizes to choose from. Take your time to find the best fit for each nail. It is recommended to choose a size that is slightly smaller than your actual nail size to avoid any overlap onto your skin.
Plan Your Design: Before you begin applying the nail strips, decide on the pattern or design you want to create. This step ensures that you are happy with the placement and alignment of each nail strip before adhering it to your nail.
By following these steps, your nails will be ready for the application of Dashing Diva gel nail strips, resulting in a manicure that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also long-lasting and chip-resistant.
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Positioning the strips
Firstly, it is important to prepare your nails by trimming and filing them to the desired length. Keep in mind that slightly longer nails can help the strips wear better over time. Ensure your nails are clean by using an alcohol wipe or a cotton round soaked in rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover. Push back your cuticles as well, as they can interfere with the seal of the strips.
Now, you can begin positioning the strips. Start by selecting a strip that is slightly smaller than your nail to avoid the strip extending beyond your nail edges. Butt the strip up against the base of your nail, as close to the cuticle as possible. This will ensure that regrowth is less noticeable, allowing you to wear the strips for a longer period.
Once you have the strip in the desired position, gently bend it over the top of your nail. You may need to trim any excess strip that extends beyond the tip of your nail. Use a nail file, preferably a glass nail file, to file down the strip and create a smooth edge. File in one direction, preferably in a downward motion, to avoid lifting and to achieve a neat finish.
If you are using larger strips, you can keep one side aligned with your nail edge while allowing the other side to overhang. You can then use an orange wood stick or your fingernail to perforate the strip and peel off the excess. This technique helps to get your money's worth from the strips, although it may not look as neat as a perfectly aligned strip.
When applying the strips, remember to only touch the middle portion of the strip to avoid getting oils from your fingers on the adhesive. Press the strip firmly onto your nail, starting from the center and moving outwards, to prevent wrinkling.
Finally, repeat these steps for each nail, and allow your manicure to ""cure"" overnight for a better seal and longer-lasting results.
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Smoothing and filing
- Nail Preparation: Before applying the gel nail strips, it is essential to prepare your nails. Start by trimming and filing your nails to the desired length. It is recommended to keep them slightly longer than usual, as this allows for any wear at the tips in the coming days. You can always trim them shorter after applying the strips. Use a glass nail file if possible, as it tends to create a smoother edge with the nail strip.
- Cleansing: Cleanse your nail bed to remove any oils, lotions, or soap residue. You can use a cotton round soaked in rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover for this step. This step ensures that the nail strips will adhere better to your nails.
- Push Back Cuticles: Gently push back your cuticles as much as possible. Cuticles can interfere with the seal of the nail strips. You can use a wooden manicure stick or an orange wood stick for this step.
- Smoothing the Nail Strip: Once you're happy with the position of your nail strip, it's time to smooth it out. Use the pink side of the nail file to smooth the edges of the strip. Work in a downward, one-directional motion. Start with the center of your nail and then move to each side. This will help create a seamless finish and prevent any lifting or bunching.
- Removing Excess: After smoothing, carefully remove any excess material from the nail strip. You can use an orange wood stick or your fingernail to perforate the excess and then peel it off. Try to maintain a clean edge, but remember that keeping one side aligned will make it easier to deal with the excess on the opposite side.
- Final Touches: Repeat the smoothing and filing process for all your nails. Once completed, you will have a gel-like manicure that can last for up to two weeks or more. If you notice any lifting or wear at the tips after a few days, simply clip or file your nails gently to make them look freshly applied again.
Remember to take your time during the application process and avoid using back-and-forth motions when filing to prevent any damage to the nail strips. With proper smoothing and filing, your Dashing Diva gel nail strips will look salon-perfect and last for a good amount of time.
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Removing the strips
Removing Dashing Diva gel nail strips is a straightforward process. Firstly, it is recommended to use a product such as REDTHERAPY Magic Off, a gentle, odourless solvent that softens and dissolves the artificial nail adhesive. This product ensures an easy and non-damaging removal process. If you do not have access to this product, you can use regular nail polish remover.
To begin the removal process, file the nail strips across your nails to "break the seal". Then, soak a piece of cotton in nail polish remover and wrap it around your nail, securing it with tin foil. Let the remover soak for around five minutes. The strips should then come off easily without damaging your nails. You can also use a dropper to drip the remover under the edge of the strip and let it dissolve the adhesive before peeling it off.
After removing the strips, apply cuticle oil to your nails to keep them flexible and prevent breakage. This will help to keep your nails healthy and strong.
Another tip to keep your nails healthy is to always wash your hands and clean your nails with rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover before applying the strips. Additionally, try to keep your nails a little longer than usual when applying the strips, as this will allow for any wear and chipping to be filed down without losing length.
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Storing leftover strips
Storing your leftover Dashing Diva gel nail strips correctly is important to keep them in good condition for future use. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you store your leftover strips effectively:
Original Packaging:
Keep your leftover strips in their original packaging. The original pack is designed to prevent the strips from merging or causing lines and dents if they come into direct contact with each other. Storing them in their original packaging will help maintain the quality and shape of the strips.
Avoid Exposure to LED Lamp Light:
Before curing your nails, ensure that any leftover strips are placed in the black carton provided. This will prevent premature curing of the strips if they are accidentally exposed to LED lamp light. Proper storage will help extend the shelf life of the strips, allowing you to use them for future manicures.
Longevity:
Dashing Diva gel nail strips can last for an extended period when stored correctly. Some users have reported using leftover strips that were stored for a year or more without any issues. However, it is recommended to use the strips within a reasonable timeframe to ensure optimal adhesion and performance.
Reusing Leftover Strips:
You can get creative and reuse your leftover strips to create unique manicure designs. Some people save their leftovers and mix and match different sets to create fun and colourful manicures. You can also trim the strips to fit your nails or combine them with real nail polish for a personalised look.
Storage Location:
Choose a cool, dry, and dark place to store your leftover strips. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can affect the adhesive properties of the strips. A dresser or cabinet drawer is usually a suitable storage location.
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Frequently asked questions
First, trim and file your nails, but keep them a little longer than you usually would. Next, use an alcohol wipe to clean your nails. Then, butt the strip up against the base of your nail, as far back as you can go. Push down on the centre of the nail and then the sides. Cut off the excess, then fold the strip over the tip of your nail and file it down. Repeat for all nails.
Dashing Diva gel nail strips are designed to last for up to two weeks. However, some users have reported that they can last even longer.
To remove the strips, apply a generous amount of cuticle oil. Then, peel off a corner of the strip along the cuticle line and gently roll the strip off. You can also use acetone to remove the strips.
