Apply each layer in a thin coat all the way to the edges of the nail, being mindful not to stray onto the skin. You want to apply the gel polish as close to the cuticle as possible. If you do make a mistake, simply wipe off the stray polish before curing, so it does not dry and become harder to remove.
Nail technicians recommend at least two coats of color, but the more you do, the more opaque your application. Don’t worry if the first one looks streaky -- thin layers will do the job better than thick uneven ones.
Cure your polish in between each coat, placing your nails under the lamp for at least 30 seconds each.
7) APPLY TOP COAT
nail tech applying top coat
Source: Pexels
Once your nail color is applied to your liking, apply a top coat to ensure that the color is sealed and to give your nails that characteristic shine. It is extremely important to cover the entire nail with a top coat, and cap the edges for a perfect seal.
Cure your nails one last time, for at least a minute, so you can ensure that they are perfectly dried and sealed.
Sometimes gel will leave a tacky residue after curing, which you can simply wipe off with a cotton ball dipped in alcohol. Then you’re good to go!
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GEL NAILS AFTER CARE
applying cuticle oil
Proper nail care ensures that your gel polish continues to look good for as long as possible, and keeps your skin and nails healthy.
Apply cuticle oil daily while maintaining gel nails. That is, every time you wash your hands, in the morning and at night. Basically, whenever you notice your skin is dry.
A good cuticle keeps the nails elastic and skin soft. Mediocre oils wouldn't penetrate and sit on top of the nails.
How to apply gel polish on acrylic nails
S&L Glitz and Glam set
In combining gel polish with acrylic nails, your nail art can last as long as 6 weeks with only minor touch-ups. Familiarize yourself gel vs acrylics nails differences before proceeding.
Here are the steps we recommend you follow:
Nail salons in Tampa1. Remove old polish with a non-acetone nail polish remover
This is a necessary step to ensure that any leftover polish is completely removed from the nail.
You must use a non-acetone remover because acetone can degrade the acrylic.
2. Clean and dry the nail
This step ensures that there is no residue left on the nail that could interfere with your application. Your nails must be completely dry as well, because trapped moisture could lead to infection.
Also, be sure not to use any harsh chemicals, which can react with the acrylic. Your best bet would be to use baby wipes or just wash your hands extra thoroughly.
3. Apply an acrylic-friendly base coat, colored polish, and top coat
3. Apply an acrylic-friendly base coat, colored polish, and top coat
You can apply gel polish to acrylic nails the same way that you would to your natural nail, using the steps outlined above.
An acrylic-compatible base coat is necessary to ensure that you do not accidentally stain your acrylics.
HOW TO APPLY NAIL TIPS WITH GEL OVERLAY
S&L nail set
Gel polish can also be applied to store-bought nail tips that can be glued on over your existing nail. The process is similar to regular gel polish application with a few notable differences.
First, push back your cuticles, buff the surface of your nails, and wipe them clean.
Then, brush a thin coat of nail glue over each nail. Apply nail tips over each nail, rocking them back and forth to expel any trapped air bubbles.
Adjust the size and shape of the nail tip as needed.
Buff and clean the surface, then apply your gel polish as usual. Start with a base coat, then add at least two layers of color, curing each coat as it is applied.