If you’ve always wanted to know how to do gel nails at home, then you’ve come to the right place. Here you’ll find the basic steps you need to follow, including preparing your nails and applying a base coat. Once you’ve done that, you’re ready to apply a gel polish to your nails. By following these simple steps, you’ll have beautiful, healthy-looking nails that you can enjoy for weeks.
Preparing your nails
If you’re planning on getting a gel manicure, you’ll need to prepare your nails first. This can be done at home. But there are a few steps you’ll need to follow to get the best results.
The process of prepping your nails will include cleaning them, buffing the surface, and filing them. The latter two are important because they help the nail polish adhere better. However, you don’t want to over-file your nails, which could damage them.
The first step in preparing your nails is to wipe down them with a cleanser. This can be either a nail cleaner or a rubbing alcohol. This removes grease and natural dust from your nails. It’s a good idea to use a lint-free pad for this task.
The next step is to clean your cuticles. You can do this by using a cuticle nipper or wooden cuticle pusher. You can also use a cuticle oil. This helps to soften and hydrate the skin around your nails.
The last step is to apply a top coat. This seals the tips of your nails and extends the color. It also helps to cure any cracks in your gel manicure. It’s a good idea to practice on a small part of your nail first.
Applying the base coat
If you’re looking for long-lasting gel manicures, you’ll want to make sure that you’ve applied the base coat properly. If you don’t, your nails could chip or lift. However, a few simple tips can help you avoid these problems.
First, you’ll want to clean your nails thoroughly. This includes removing any dirt or debris from the nail bed. You may also need to file your nails. This helps the polish adhere better.
Next, you’ll need to remove any old polish or gel from your nails. This can be done with a nail scraper or cotton ball soaked in acetone. This process is a good way to clean your nails and prepare them for the application of gel.
Once your nails have been cleaned and filed, you can apply the gel base coat. The base coat will provide a smooth surface for the polish to spread evenly and help it stick to your nails. If you choose to use a brush, apply the base coat in thin layers.
Once your base coat is dry, you’ll need to cure it under a UV or LED lamp. The time for curing depends on the type of lamp you use, but it usually takes about 30 to 60 seconds.
Removing the polish
Removing the polish from gel nails is no easy task. If you’re not careful, you could damage your natural nail or end up with peeling or brittle nails.
Acetone is a popular tool for removing gel nails. It works by breaking down the cured paint. If you’re using a cheap brand, it can bubble up and make the removal process a mess. Luckily, there are other ways to get the same results.
Another method is to use a cuticle stick. A rubber-ended cuticle stick is a good option for removing the polish from gel nails. This can help you to gently scrape off the polish from the top of your nail without damaging the acrylic below.
It’s a great way to give your nails a fresh start. It’s important to remember that you can’t remove the polish from gel nails with bare hands. You can however, add oil to the area around your acrylics to relieve the stress on your skin.
If you’re going to remove the polish from gel nails at home, you’ll need a few tools. Among them, you’ll find acetone, cotton balls, a cuticle stick and a manicuring brush. A good nail file can also prove useful, but you don’t want to apply it too harshly, as it can damage your nails.