Noah Sinclair
Acrylic gel is an advanced nail-building technique that combines the benefits of acrylic and gel techniques. The process involves applying an acrylic formulation to artificial nail tips or directly to your natural nails. The application of gel polish on top of acrylic nails is a popular choice for those seeking long-lasting colour and added protection. Gel manicures are known to last significantly longer than traditional nail polish due to their chip-resistant properties. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the steps involved in achieving salon-quality gel nails at home, from preparation to final touches, ensuring that you can confidently master this technique and enjoy the convenience and style of gel polish on your acrylic nails.
How to use acrylic gel nail polish
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Wash hands or use baby wipes. |
| Push back cuticles, buff the surface of your nails, and wipe them clean. | |
| Brush a thin coat of nail glue over each nail. | |
| Apply an acrylic-friendly base coat. | |
| Application | Apply the Acryl Gel with the Acryl Gel Brush. |
| Dip the Acryl Gel Brush into the Acryl Gel Liquid. | |
| Apply the Acryl Gel to the Dual Form with the Acryl Gel Brush. | |
| Stick the Dual Form with the Acryl Gel to your nail and cure for 60 seconds on the top side and 60 seconds underneath. | |
| Remove the Dual Form and wipe the surface with Cleanser. | |
| Use the Nail File to shape the nail. | |
| Apply the Top Coat and cure. | |
| Removal | Use a metal tweezer to help peel off the manicure. |
| Advantages | Long-lasting. |
| Offers nails protection. | |
| Strong, hard and tough. | |
| Safe: No monomers or airborne dust. | |
| Convenient: Easy to handle, does not expand, quick and easy application. |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the nail surface
Step 1: Remove Existing Nail Polish
Start by removing any existing nail polish using nail polish remover. This step ensures that your nails are clean and free from any residue, which is important for optimal adhesion of the gel polish.
Step 2: Shape Your Nails
The next step is to shape your nails into your desired length and shape. You can use nail clippers to trim your nails and a nail file to shape them. Common nail shapes include square, round, and almond, but feel free to choose the shape that suits your preference. Be careful not to over-file your nails, as this can weaken them and make them prone to breakage.
Step 3: Push Back Cuticles
Before applying gel polish, it is important to push back your cuticles. Use a cuticle remover to soften the dead skin around your cuticles, and then gently push them back with a cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick. Be careful not to cut or damage your cuticles, as they serve as a protective barrier for your nails. Removing dead skin promotes a smooth gel polish application and prevents the polish from lifting prematurely.
Step 4: Buff Your Nails
Buffing your nails gives the nail bed texture and something for the polish to adhere to. Use a nail buffer with a fine-grit side and buff gently in one direction to avoid removing multiple layers of the nail. A slightly rough finish will help the gel polish stick better. Remember not to over-buff, as your natural nails are delicate, and excessive filing can cause damage.
Step 5: Cleanse and Dehydrate
The final step is to cleanse and dehydrate your nails to remove any dirt, oil, or moisture. Use a lint-free wipe soaked in a prep and wipe solution to clean the entire nail surface. You can also use nail cleanser pads or alcohol to remove any residue. This step ensures that your nails are completely free of any substances that may interfere with the adhesion of the gel polish.
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Applying the gel polish
Next, you will need to apply a base coat to your nails. This is an important step as it will prevent staining and help the gel polish last longer. Choose an acrylic-friendly base coat to ensure compatibility. Once you have applied the base coat, you will need to let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Now, you are ready to apply the gel polish. Choose your desired colour and apply one thin coat to each nail, being careful not to flood your cuticles. If you make a mistake, you can use a small brush dipped in nail polish remover to clean up the edges. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second coat if a deeper colour is desired.
Finally, apply a top coat to protect your gel manicure and add shine. Again, make sure the top coat is compatible with gel polish. Allow the top coat to dry completely, and then you are finished! Your gel manicure should last for several weeks, but you can always touch it up if needed.
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Drying the gel polish
Drying gel nail polish can be done in a few different ways, depending on the type of gel polish being used.
Using a UV or LED Lamp
UV or LED lamps are the traditional way to dry gel nail polish. The gel polish contains methacrylates and photoinitiating compounds that, when exposed to UV or LED light, go through a process called polymerization. This causes the gel polish to cure and harden.
To use a UV or LED lamp, first ensure that the gel polish you are using is compatible with that curing technique. Place your hand under the lamp, being sure to get your nails directly under the lamp while minimizing the amount of skin exposed to UV radiation. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the exact curing time, which is typically between 30 seconds and 2 minutes. You may need to cure each layer separately, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying another.
Air-Drying
Only no-light gel nail polishes can be air-dried. After applying two coats of polish, allow your nails to air-dry for 5 to 10 minutes. You can speed up the drying process by submerging your nails in an ice bath for 3 to 4 minutes, followed by air-drying for 30 minutes to an hour.
Other Methods
There are also other methods to speed up the drying process, such as using a fast-drying top coat, a quick-dry nail polish spray, or drying drops.
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Finishing the nail
Finishing an acrylic gel nail polish application involves several steps to ensure the long-lasting durability of the manicure. Firstly, it is important to remember that gel nail polish is cured by UV or LED light, and these emit harmful UV rays that can damage the skin on your hands and fingers. Therefore, before beginning the manicure, apply an even layer of SPF to your hands to protect your skin.
Once you have applied the gel polish, finish with a gel top coat. This is essential as it seals in the colour and provides a glossy finish that protects the nails from chipping and peeling.
If you are applying gel polish to acrylic nail tips, the final step is to apply a thin coat of nail glue over each nail. Then, apply the nail tips over the whole nail, rocking them back and forth to expel any trapped air bubbles. Adjust the size and shape of the nail tip as needed.
Finally, to maintain the longevity of your manicure, apply a cuticle oil to your nail beds daily, avoid filing unless absolutely necessary, and wear gloves for household chores such as washing dishes or repotting plants.
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Removing the gel polish
Removing gel nail polish can be a tricky process, and it is important to do it carefully to avoid damaging your nails. There are several methods you can use, depending on the tools you have available and how much time you have. Here is a step-by-step guide to removing gel nail polish:
Using Acetone and Foil:
- Prepare your workspace: Line your work area with a cloth to avoid staining and protect against acetone damage. Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area, as acetone has a strong smell.
- File the top coat: Use a coarse nail file to gently buff the top layer of your gel polish. Continue filing until the top coat loses its shine and smoothness. Be careful not to over-file, as this can damage your nails.
- Soak cotton balls or pads in acetone: Tear off pieces of cotton that fit just the nail bed of each nail. Soak these in acetone.
- Apply cotton to your nails: Place the acetone-soaked cotton on top of each nail.
- Wrap nails with foil or plastic wrap: Cut foil or plastic food wrap into squares, big enough to wrap around each fingertip. Wrap the foil/plastic around your fingertips, creating a tight seal.
- Wait: Leave the wrap on for 10-20 minutes. The gel polish will start to dissolve and lose its adhesion.
- Remove the wrap: Most or all of the gel polish should come off with the wrap. If not, gently rub the remaining polish with a wet washcloth.
- Wash your hands: Use mild soap and warm water to remove any acetone residue and moisturize your hands.
Using a Gel Nail Polish Remover:
- File the top coat: Gently buff the top layer of your gel polish with a nail file until it is no longer shiny.
- Apply gel nail polish remover: Brush the remover onto your nails and wait for 2-5 minutes. The gel polish will start to crack and peel.
- Remove the polish: Use a metal cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick to gently push off the gel polish from each nail.
- Clean your nails: Use a nail buffer to smooth out any ridges and remove any remaining polish.
- Moisturize: Apply cuticle oil or nail/cuticle moisturizer to keep your nails hydrated and healthy.
Soaking in Hot Water:
This method is not recommended by professionals, as it can be harsh on your nails and skin. However, it can be effective in removing gel polish.
- Soak your nails in hot water: Keep your nails soaked for 5-6 minutes.
- Push off the gel polish: Use a cuticle pusher to gently push and scrape off the gel polish.
- Moisturize: Apply nail oil or moisturizer to your nails and cuticles to prevent dryness and damage.
It is important to note that if you have hard gel polish, filing it off or growing it out may be the only options. Soaking in acetone may not be effective for this type of gel polish. Always be gentle with your nails during the removal process to avoid damage and weakening of your nails.
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