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What You’ll Need:
- Gel nail kit (including gel polish, base coat, top coat, gel cleanser, and UV/LED lamp)
- Alcohol wipes or nail polish remover
- Nail file
- Nail buffer
- Cuticle pusher
- Nail glue
- Gel nail tips
- Cuticle oil
Step 1: Prep Your Natural Nails
Start by removing any existing nail polish using alcohol wipes or nail polish remover. Then, using a nail file, shape your nails to your desired length and gently buff the surface to remove any shine. Make sure to push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher.
Step 2: Apply the Gel Nail Tips
Take the gel nail tips and find the sizes that fit your natural nails. Apply a small amount of nail glue to the back of each gel nail tip and press it firmly onto your natural nail, holding it in place for a few seconds. Repeat this process for all your nails.
Step 3: Trim and Shape the Gel Nail Tips
Using a nail cutter, trim the gel nail tips to your desired length. Then, use a nail file to shape the tips into your preferred style. Be careful not to file too much, as the tips should align with your natural nail shape.
Step 4: Apply the Base Coat
Apply a thin layer of the base coat from your gel nail kit onto all of your nails, making sure to cap the edges. This will help the gel polish adhere better and prevent lifting.
Step 5: Cure the Base Coat
Place your nails under a UV/LED lamp and cure the base coat according to the instructions provided with your gel nail kit. This typically takes around 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 6: Apply the Gel Polish
Now it’s time to apply the gel polish color of your choice. Ensure you have enough polish on the brush to cover the entire nail but avoid applying it too thickly. Apply the polish in thin, even strokes and cap the edges. Remember not to get any gel polish on your cuticles or skin.
Step 7: Cure the Gel Polish
Cure the gel polish layer under your UV/LED lamp for the recommended time, usually around 1-2 minutes. Follow the instructions provided with your gel nail kit for precise curing times.
Step 8: Apply a Second Coat (Optional)
If desired, you can apply a second coat of gel polish for a more vibrant color. Repeat the same process as in Step 6.
Step 9: Apply the Top Coat
Apply a thin layer of the top coat from your gel nail kit to seal the gel polish and add shine. Make sure to cap the edges for long-lasting wear.
Step 10: Cure the Top Coat
Place your nails under the UV/LED lamp one last time and cure the top coat for the recommended time as specified in your gel nail kit instructions.
Step 11: Cleanse and Moisturize
Using a gel cleanser or alcohol wipes, gently cleanse the sticky residue from the gel nails. Finish off by hydrating your cuticles with cuticle oil for a healthy nail look.
And there you have it! With some practice, you can achieve salon-worthy gel fake nails from the comfort of your own home. Say goodbye to chipped nail polish and hello to beautiful, long-lasting nails. Enjoy!