Gel Nail for Professionals and Beginners

If you’re looking to master the art of gel nail application, a guide for professionals and beginners this comprehensive guide has you covered! Whether you’re a professional nail technician or just starting your journey, this step-by-step approach ensures perfect results every time. From nail preparation to troubleshooting common issues, learn the techniques that will elevate your nail designs.

1. Nail Preparation Detailed Practice and Visual Alternative

1.1 Cleaning and Matting the Nail Plate

• Tools:

  Cuticle pusher, nipper, 240 grit file.

• Procedure:

  1. Push back the cuticles using a metal cuticle pusher.
  2. Trim excess cuticles with a nipper.
  3. Dull the nail surface with a file, using long strokes from the center to the free edge.

• Visual Alternative:

  • Picture a clean manicure with the cuticle area completely removed.
  • Visualize a matte texture on the nail surface, free of shine.

1.2 Nail Shaping

• Hold the file at a 45° angle to symmetrically shape the free edge.
• Round the corners for an oval shape or create flat surfaces for square nails.
• Check: Inspect the nail tips by looking up and across to ensure evenness.

2. Dehydration and Adhesive Coat Application

2.1 Dehydrator Application

• Objective: Completely remove oil and moisture from the nail.
• Application Steps:
  1. Apply a thin layer from the center outward.
  2. Seal the free edges with the brush.
  3. Cure under a UV/LED lamp.
• Visual Alternative: Imagine a thin layer of gel evenly spread over the nail, cured to perfection under the lamp.

2.2 Primer (Adhesive Product) Application

• How to do it:

  1. Use a minimal amount of primer.
  2. Apply a thin layer with a brush, starting from the center.
  3. Spread towards the edges without touching the cuticle.
• Visual Alternative: Visualize a sticky surface on the nail, creating optimal adherence for additional products.

3. Base Coat Application

3.1 Choosing the Right Base Layer:

• Use a rubber base for thin or brittle nails and a hard base for long, strong nails.

4. Nail Alignment and Surface Correction (Apex Creation)

4.1 Apex Construction:

• What is Apex?
  The apex provides durability by creating height at the center of the nail.
• Steps to Create Apex:
  1. Place a small drop of gel in the nail’s center.
  2. Pull the drop gently towards the tip.
  3. Turn the nail upside-down briefly to let the gel self-level.

4.2 Smoothness Check:

• Inspect the nail under a round lamp or light source; light lines should appear uninterrupted.
• Visual Alternative: Imagine a smooth, perfectly aligned surface with a symmetrical apex.

5. Gel Nail Polish Application

5.1 First Layer

• Apply a thin, even layer, avoiding the cuticle.
• Cure under the lamp after each nail.

5.2 Second Layer

• Apply a second layer for a richer color.
• Use long, continuous brush strokes for a flawless finish.

6. Top Layer and Final Touches

6.1 Top Coat Application:

• Seal and protect the gel polish with a final layer of top coat.
• Ensure durability by covering the free edges.

6.2 Curing and Styling:

• Cure the nails under a lamp one last time.
• Finish by gently smoothing the edges with a file.

Using Plastic Tips for Practice

For beginners, practicing on plastic tips is a great way to build confidence. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare the nail surface.
2. Apply dehydrator and primer.
3. Layer and align gel nail polish properly.

Common Problems and Solutions

1. Gel Nail Polish Runs: Tilt the nail downward slightly to prevent running.
2. Bubbles: Use an orange stick to pop bubbles before curing.
3. Cuticle Overflow: Clean any overflow before curing to avoid allergic reactions.

For more detailed tutorials and expert tips, explore our blog regularly! Stay inspired, and let your nails shine like never before!