Caleb Foster
There are many ways to stick diamonds on gel nails. The most common method is to use a nail art adhesive or nail glue. The type of diamond you use is also important, as acrylic gems are inexpensive but not very durable, while glass or synthetic crystals are more sparkly and durable. The placement of the diamonds is also key to making them last. It is recommended to place them closer to the cuticle, as the nail plate doesn't flex there, creating a more stable surface.
How to stick diamonds on gel nails
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of diamonds | Acrylic gems, Glass or synthetic crystals, Flat-backed rhinestones, Pointed-back crystals |
| Adhesive | Thick, stiff gel, Quick-set glue, GEMGEL Adhesive, Rachael Wilder's Crystal Fix, Double-sided tape, Clear nail polish, Gel top coat |
| Placement | Closer to the cuticle, not too close to the sides, Centre of the nail bed |
| Application tools | Wax-tipped tool, Wax pencil, Tweezers, Toothpick, Nail stickers |
| Aftercare | Wear gloves while washing dishes or hair, Apply a top coat around the edges, Avoid soaking nails while bathing |
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What You'll Learn
Rhinestone placement
Placement for Durability:
Place the rhinestones closer to the cuticle, as the nail plate is more stable there, and the nail doesn't flex. This prevents the rhinestones from popping off easily. The closer the rhinestones are to the tips of your nails, the higher the chances of them getting knocked off.
Choosing the Right Rhinestones:
Flat-backed rhinestones can be used with a clear top coat or a special adhesive designed for nail art. Pointed-back rhinestones can be placed on the nails using tweezers or wax pencils. For extra-large rhinestones, look for a slight curve on the bottom. Flat and large rhinestones tend to snag onto things and can easily pop off.
Adhesive Application:
Apply a layer of rhinestone adhesive to the area where the rhinestones will be placed. You can use nail glue, gel, or a combination of both. If using gel, apply a thick, stiff gel first to set the rhinestone in place. Ask your client to pivot their hand from side to side while curing under the lamp to allow the light to cure the gel in between the crystals. Then, secure the rhinestone by applying a medium-thin viscosity gel to cap the edges.
Sealing and Protection:
After placing the rhinestones, seal them with a top coat of clear nail polish, gel top coat, or glitter accents for extra protection and shine. If you use a top coat, apply it around the rhinestones and not on top of them, as it may reduce their sparkle and make them look cloudy.
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Rhinestone application
If you're looking for a quick fix, you can use a normal top coat. Simply put a dab of top coat on the back of the rhinestone, stick it down, and then apply another layer of top coat to the entire nail. However, this method won't make your rhinestones last long, and covering the gems with top coat can make them look less faceted and dull their sparkle.
For a more durable option that will make your rhinestones last a couple of days, nail glue is a good choice. Nail glue is chemically similar to super glue, so it's strong and dissolves easily in acetone. Just be sure to let it dry fully before washing your hands.
If you want your rhinestones to last even longer, you can use a special adhesive. One option is to use a thicker substance that comes in a jar and has a consistency similar to hot glue or jelly. This can be tricky to work with and may result in a lot of product buildup around the stones. Another option is to use a strong resin adhesive like GEMGEL Adhesive, which cures like a gel and has an extremely strong hold.
When applying your rhinestones, it's important to consider their placement. Closer to the cuticle is best because it's a more stable surface, but be careful not to get too close, or you'll risk the gems snagging on things. If you're placing gems on natural nails, stick to smaller stones, as larger ones placed at the stress point where the nail bends are likely to pop off.
Once you've applied your rhinestones, cure your nails under an LED lamp. If you don't have a lamp, you can use a nail polish top coat, but this won't last as long as a gel adhesive. After curing, you can apply a final top coat around the stones to help lock them into place, but be sure to avoid coating the stones themselves, as this can dull their sparkle.
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Rhinestone types
Rhinestones are a great way to add some sparkle and shine to your gel nails. There are several types of rhinestones available, each with its own unique characteristics and application process.
Acrylic Rhinestones
Acrylic rhinestones are an affordable option, offering a wide range of colours and shapes to choose from. However, they may not be the best choice for gel nails as they tend to lack durability and lustre. They can also be more challenging to work with when it comes to gel applications.
Glass or Synthetic Crystals
Glass or synthetic crystals are a more expensive option, but they offer increased sparkle and durability. These crystals are ideal for gel nails as they can withstand the curing process without losing their shine. They are also less likely to snag, making them a safer choice for larger gems.
Flat-back Rhinestones
Flat-back rhinestones are designed with a flat bottom surface, allowing for easy application and a seamless finish. They are commonly used for nail art and are available in various colours, sizes, and shapes, including round, heart, star, and droplet designs.
Curved-back Rhinestones
For extra-large gems, a slight curve on the bottom is recommended to prevent snagging. Flat-backed stones larger than 8mm may be more prone to snagging and popping off, so a curved back can provide a more secure and comfortable fit.
3D Rhinestones
3D rhinestones offer a unique, dimensional effect to your nail art. They often come in fun shapes, such as planets, butterflies, or flowers, and can be made from materials like metal, alloy, or acrylic.
The type of rhinestone you choose will depend on the specific look you want to achieve, the size and shape of the stone, and your budget. Each type of rhinestone can be applied using a combination of gel, resin, or adhesive, and cured under an LED lamp for long-lasting results.
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Rhinestone removal
Removing rhinestones from gel nails can be a tricky process, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done easily. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the necessary supplies: Before starting the removal process, ensure you have gathered all the required supplies, including acetone, tweezers, nail clippers, a hairdryer or heat gun, and a top coat. Acetone is a powerful solvent that will dissolve the glue holding the rhinestones in place. The hairdryer or heat gun can be used to soften the glue if you prefer a heat-based removal method over acetone.
- Protect your hands: Acetone can be irritating and cause skin discolouration, so it is recommended to wear gloves when handling it.
- Apply acetone to the nail: Start by applying acetone directly onto the nail where the rhinestone is located. Be careful not to get any acetone on your skin or clothes.
- Wait for the glue to dissolve: This may take anywhere from five minutes to half an hour, depending on the strength of the adhesive and how long it has been in place. You will notice that the glue has started dissolving when you see it softening around the edges of the rhinestone.
- Peel away the rhinestone: Using tweezers or a tool specifically designed for nail art, carefully start peeling away at one corner of the rhinestone. If needed, apply more acetone to fully dissolve the adhesive. Work slowly and gently around each side until all pieces of the rhinestone are removed without causing damage or leaving residue.
- Trim away excess glue: After removing the rhinestones, there may be some leftover glue or small stones still attached to the nail. Use nail clippers to carefully trim away this excess material.
- Apply a top coat: Finally, apply a top coat to your nails to protect them and restore their shine.
If you are looking for a quicker alternative, you can simply nip off the rhinestones with cuticle nippers, especially if they are applied over gel polish or hard gel. However, this method may not be suitable if you wish to retain the gel colour on your nails.
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Rhinestone durability
Rhinestones can be applied to gel nails using a variety of methods, each with its own durability. The durability of the rhinestones on gel nails depends on several factors, including the type of rhinestones used, the placement, the adhesive, and the curing process.
The most popular rhinestones for nail art are Swarovski and Preciosa, with flatback non-hotfix rhinestones being the most common type used for gel manicures. The size of the rhinestones is crucial for durability, with smaller sizes like SS3 to SS10 lasting longer on gel nails when attached correctly. Larger stones tend to snag more easily and can pop off if placed at the stress point where the natural nail bends. Therefore, it is recommended to use smaller stones and place them closer to the cuticle for enhanced stability and durability.
The placement of the rhinestones also affects their durability. It is important to ensure that the rhinestones are properly secured and do not get caught or snagged on things. A combination of gel and resin can be used to apply larger gems, with some technicians using a thick hard gel and others using resin first and then filling in gaps with gel. The gel should come up onto the girdle of the stone to secure it in place, similar to a "gel prong."
The choice of adhesive plays a significant role in the durability of the rhinestones. While a gel top coat can be used as an adhesive, it may not be as durable as dedicated nail glue. Nail glue provides a stronger and longer-lasting hold, especially if the rhinestones need to stay on for more than a couple of days. Quick-set glues are recommended, and additional glue can be placed at the base of each stone for added strength. It is also important to ensure that the nail is clean, dry, and properly prepared before applying the adhesive and rhinestones.
The curing process is crucial for the durability of the rhinestones. After applying the rhinestones with glue or gel, it is essential to cure the nails under a UV/LED lamp. This allows the light to cure the gel or glue underneath and around the rhinestones, securing them in place.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a number of different adhesives to stick diamonds on gel nails. Nail glue is one of the best options for sticking down diamonds and embellishments. If you want to avoid glue, you can use a special nail art adhesive tape or sticker, or a clear top coat polish that has been specifically designed for nail art applications.
Glass or synthetic crystals are typically more sparkly and durable, but they are more expensive. Acrylic gems are the least expensive and come in a range of colours and shapes, but they are not very durable and may not work well with gel.
Positioning your diamonds closer to your cuticle will make them last longer. If they are placed too close to the tips of your nails, they are more likely to be knocked off.
To make diamonds on gel nails last longer, you can wear gloves when washing dishes or doing other household chores that involve water.
