How To Do Your Own Nails with Gel?

Having manicured nails can improve your overall appearance and bolster your self-esteem. Visiting a salon is an option, but you can also achieve salon-quality results by applying the gel enamel to your nails at home. This article will provide information about how to do your nails with gel.

Doing your own nails with gel is important because it offers long-lasting, professional-looking results without the need for frequent salon visits.

It provides the opportunity for creativity, saves time and money, and allows you to maintain beautiful nails at your convenience. So, here are the methods about how to do your own nails with gel.

1. Gathering The Necessary Supplies

Before beginning, it is essential to acquire all necessary supplies. Here is a list of required items:

Gel base coat
Gel color polish
Gel base coat
Gel top coat
The nail tool
Cuticle pusher
Nail buffer
Nail polish remover or alcohol
Lint-free wipes
Nail varnish remover (based on acetone).
Cotton balls or cotton pads
Hand moisturizing cream or cuticle oil

2. Getting Your Nails Ready

Proper preparation of the nails is essential for attaining long-lasting gel manicures. Use the following procedures to prepare your nails:

Use nail paint remover to remove any existing nail varnish.
Using a nail file, trim and form your nails.
Utilizing a cuticle prod, gently retract your cuticles.
Use a manicure buffer to remove shine and rough edges from the surface of your nails.
Remove oils and residue from your nails using a nail cleanser or rubbing alcohol.

3. Applying The Gel Base Coat

The gel base coat serves as the substrate for a gel manicure. Follow the procedures below to apply the undercoat:

Apply a fine layer of the gel base coat to each nail, working your way from the cuticle to the tip.
Ensure the base coat covers the entire nail, but avoid getting it on the cuticles or epidermis.
Remove any excess base coat around the nail edges with a clear brush.
Repeat the procedure for each nail.

4. Curing The Base Coat

After application, the gel base varnish must be cured under a UV or LED nail lamp. Use the following procedures to cure the base coat:

Place your nails under the nail illuminator according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Turn on the lamp and set the timer according to the gel product’s instructions.
Allow the base varnish to cure fully. This typically takes between 30 and 60 seconds, depending on the brand of lamp and lubricant.

5. Applying The Gel Color

Now is the time to apply nail polish. Use the following methods to apply gel color:

Apply a thin, uniform layer of gel nail remover to each nail using smooth, controlled strokes.
Ensure that the pigment is distributed evenly and completely covers the nail surface.
Avoid applying the color to your cuticles and epidermis.
Repeat the procedure for each nail.

6. Curing The Color Coat

Once the gel color has been applied, it must be cured under a manicure lamp. Follow the procedures below to cure the paint:

As before, place your fingertips under the nail lamp.
Turn on the light and set the timer per the gel manufacturer’s instructions.
Permit the color varnish to fully cure. Depending on the lamp and gel brand, this takes approximately 60 seconds.

7. Applying A Second Coat (Optional)

You can apply a second coating of gel color if you prefer a more opaque appearance or if the coloring appears streaky. Follow the same instructions for using and curing the color coat.

8. Applying The Gel Top Coat

The top gel varnish gives your manicure shine and durability. Follow the instructions below to apply the finishing coat:

Apply a fine layer of the gel top coat to each nail, ensuring they are completely covered.
Seal the margins of the nails to prevent them from chipping.
Avoid getting the top coat on the epidermis or cuticles.
Repeat the procedure for each nail.

9. Curing The Top Coat

Under the nail lamp, cure the gel top coat to guarantee a durable finish. Follow the procedures below to cure the finish:

As instructed, place your fingertips under the nail lamp.
Turn on the lamp and set the timer per the gel manufacturer’s instructions.
Allow the top varnish to cure fully. This takes approximately 60 seconds, depending on the lamp and gel brand.

10. Cleaning Up Any Mistakes

Do not worry if you inadvertently smudged the gel polish or got it on your skin while applying it. Follow these procedures to correct any errors:

Use a cotton swab or small brush dipped in nail polish remover to remove nail lacquer.
Remove excess gel polish from the skin or cuticles while avoiding touching the recently cured nails.
Cleanse one nail at a time to ensure accuracy.

11. Moisturizing And Caring For Your Nails

After a gel manicure, it is essential to moisturize and care for your nails to maintain their health and strength. Observe these tips:

Apply a cuticle oil or moisturizing hand lotion daily to hydrate your nails and cuticles.
To avoid breaking your nails, avoid using them as instruments.
Wear gloves when performing household duties or tasks that may expose your nails to chemicals or excessive moisture.
Take a vacation from gel manicures and allow your nails to recover naturally if they become brittle or damaged.

12. Removing Gel Polish

Follow these steps to remove gel varnish when the time comes:

Lightly file the gel polish’s top coat to break the seal.
Soak a cotton swab or pad in nail polish remover containing acetone.
Place a cotton ball or pad soaked in alcohol on each nail and encase it in aluminum foil.
Allow the gel varnish to loosen for approximately 10 to 15 minutes while the foil is in place.
Remove the foil covers carefully and scrape the gel polish with a cuticle pusher.
Lightly buff the cuticles to eliminate any residue.

Conclusion

Gel manicures can be created at home with the proper equipment and methods. By following the steps in this article, you can develop manicures worthy of a salon that lasts. Remember to prioritize nail health and maintenance for results that last. Enjoy the satisfaction of doing your nails yourself and flaunt your beautiful gel manicure.

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(FAQs)

Can regular nail lacquer be applied over gel polish?

Applying conventional nail polish on top of gel polish is not advised, as this can result in lifting and peeling. It is best to use gel polish throughout the complete manicure.

How long do gel manicures last?

Gel varnish can last up to two weeks or longer if applied and maintained properly.

Can I apply gel varnish without first applying a base coat?

The base coat is necessary because it helps gel lacquer adhere to the nail and provides a smooth application surface. Its omission may result in premature flaking or lifting.

Can I substitute a UV lantern for an LED lamp?

Yes, a UV lamp can cure gel polish, but remember that it may require a longer cure time than an LED lamp.

How frequently should I moisturize my cuticles and nails?

It is recommended that you moisturize your nails and cuticles at least once per day to maintain their hydration and prevent dehydration.

How To Do Your Own Nails with Gel?