Gel Nail Polish Application Guide with all the details and steps

This guide about Gel Nail Polish is a complete guide for beginners. Each stage is thoroughly explained with technical tips to avoid common mistakes.

Nail Plate Preparation

This step makes the nail surface smooth and clean, making the nail polish last longer. Cleaning the Nail Plate, Removing Cuticle and Skin Remnants Gently push back cuticles using a metal or wooden cuticle pusher. Use cuticle scissors or a nipper to remove excess skin and pterygium (the thin layer of skin on the nail surface).

Matt the Surface: Using a 240-grit file or buffer, gently file the nail surface. Work in long one-way strokes; this prevents damage to the natural nail.
Make sure the nail surface is completely matte and oil-free.

Nail Shaping

Determining the Desired Shape, Square, round, almond, or oval – choose the shape according to the client’s desire and lifestyle.
Filing the Free Edge File the free edge of the nail is straight or beveled. Check from both sides to ensure symmetry.

Dust and Residue Removal

Remove Dust, Use a soft nail brush to remove dust from the top and edge of the nail. Wipe with Alcohol or Nail Cleaner: Pour alcohol or nail cleaner onto a lint-free pad and wipe the nail completely clean.

Do Not Touch the Nail

Protection from Oil and Dirt, Avoid touching the nail surface after preparation. This can prevent products from sticking.
Dehydration and Adhesive Coat Application Degreasing the nail surface and applying a primer ensures that the gel polish adheres firmly to the nail.

Dehydration (Degreasing)

Dehydrator Application Apply a dehydrator when the nail is oily or damp. The dehydrator absorbs oil and moisture from the nail surface. Allow the nail to air dry after application.

Primer Application

Choosing the Right Primer. Choose an acid-free primer, as this is more suitable for sensitive nails. Application Technique
Apply a thin layer of primer, avoid using too much product. Avoid contact with skin and cuticle areas. The primer leaves a sticky layer on the nail surface, which allows the base coat to adhere better.

Base Coat Application

The base layer increases the durability of the nail and prevents the nail polish from peeling. Choosing the Right Base Layer Rubber Base Coat:
Suitable for thin, flexible, or easily broken nails. Hard Base Coat: Ideal for creating long and durable nail structures.

3.2 Application Techniques

Thin First Layer:

Apply the first base layer in a thin layer. Start from the center and work towards the edges.

Approaching the Cuticles:

Keeping the brush slightly tilted, cover the edges without getting too close to the cuticles.

For Curved Nails:

Keep the nail slightly inclined downwards to prevent the product from running.

Curing with UV/LED Lamp:

Dry the nails in the lamp for the time recommended by the manufacturer.

4. Nail Alignment and Surface Correction

This step ensures that the nail has a smooth and aesthetic surface.

4.1 Creating an Apex (Optional)

– Apex Determination:

– Place a drop of gel or base layer on the nail surface and pull towards the free edge with gentle movements.

– Self-Leveling:

– Turn the nail upside down to evenly distribute the gel over the surface, then dry in a lamp.

4.2 Checking the Surface

– Smoothness Check:

– Check the surface with a round lamp; if the light reflects evenly, the surface is smooth.

– Correction:

– If there are irregularities, reapply the gel in a thin layer and dry again.

5. Gel Nail Polish Application

The correct application of color layers is important for both visual appeal and durability.

5.1 First Layer

– Thin Layer Application:

– Gently place the brush on the cuticle area and apply color towards the center and edges.

– Cure the nails one at a time so that the gel polish does not run to the edges.

5.2 Second Layer

– Full Coverage:

– Apply the second layer a little thicker so that the nail is completely covered.

– Attention to Edges:

– Make sure the edges are painted evenly, then cure in the lamp.

6. Top Coat and Final Touches

The top layer increases the durability of the gel polish and provides a glossy finish.

6.1 Top Layer Application

– Hairless Application:

– Apply the top layer in long, gentle strokes for a lint-free, even finish.

– Edge Sealing:

– Apply the top layer on the free edge to prevent peeling of the material.

6.2 Curing and Final Touch-ups

– Final Curing:

– Dry the top layer in a lamp.

– Filing:

– File the nail tips to give the final shape.

Bonus Common Mistakes and Solutions

1. Overflow of Material on Cuticle:

– Clean with an orange stick before curing.

2. Uneven Gel Spread:

– Allow the gel to correct itself by turning the nail over.

3. Bubbles:

– Remove with an orange stick before curing.