How to Do Gel Manicures

DIY gel nails.

Gel nail enhancements extend the longevity of a manicure, increase nail strength and prevent nail-biting. The advantage of gel nails versus acrylic nails is the gel application is odorless and looks more natural than acrylic nails. For those who want to do their own nails, a small investment and a little patience will give you salon quality nails. Gel nail kits can be purchased with or without the requirement of an ultraviolet (UV) lamp in beauty supply stores or online. However, UV applications last longer.

Things You'll Need

• Gel nail kit
• UV Lamp (If not included in kit)
• 180 or 240 grit file
• Buffer
• Assorted nail tips (If not included in kit)
• Nail tip clipper
• Nail clue
• Anti-bacterial spray
• Nail prep
• Application brush (If not included in kit)
• Lint free cloth
• Gel remover (If not included in kit)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Perform a basic manicure leaving a free edge, especially if you are applying nail tips.

2. File the nail bed in one direction to remove shine. Do not over-file or file in a back and forth motion. Brush away any nail dust remaining on nails.

3. Apply nail prep to nails in a sweeping motion. This will remove any remaining moisture from nails and help product adhere to nails.

Application

1. Apply nail adhesive to the well of the nail tip, then slide it onto the free edge of natural nail so it fits snugly. Make sure the nail tip fits the curve of natural nail. Press down for five seconds. Repeat these steps for the opposite hand.

2. Cut nail tips down to a realistic length with tip clipper. Nails that are too long break and lift easily.

3. Scoop a small amount of gel onto application brush and wipe one side of brush clean on the side of jar. Apply a thin layer of gel to your nails as you would nail polish. Do not allow the brush to fan out because it will cause uneven distribution. Avoid the cuticle and skin.

4. Cure nails under the UV lamp for 3-minutes. Repeat Step 3 two more times.

5. Repeat Steps 1 to 4 for the opposite hand.

6. Apply sealant to the finished nails.

7. Clean excess gel from the cuticles and skin around nails with a lint-free cloth and gel cleanser.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the gel is away from the UV lamp or the product will cure. Make sure the gel application is evenly distributed before curing. Apply several thin layers versus one or two thick layers. Product shrinkage is normal, but thick layers will cause excessive shrinkage. Too much shrinkage will cause the enhancement to pop off, lift or cause a fungal infection. Make sure your hands, utensils and workspace are clean and sanitized.

References

• Nail Technician Courses: DIY UV Gel Nails
• Manicure.com: How yo Apply Gel Nails
• Nails Guide: Gel Nail

Resources

• Web MD: Healthy Fingernails: Clues About Your Health