Brionna Moore

View Original

Tips for the perfect Gel Mani

How to Get the Perfect Gel Manicure in 5 Easy Steps

Get ready to nail your next gel manicure! Everyone wants cute nails no matter the season, so use these simple steps to help you create your perfect gel manicure. I love wearing my natural nails at a length that makes me feel comfortable and confident and I believe every person is capable of having nice pretty nails.

Instructions:

my nails with no product, shaped and ready for application.

1. Prepare Your Nails Before you start applying any gel polish, make sure your nails are well-prepped. Shape your nails to your desired length and shape. Use a nail file to smooth out any rough edges. Push back your cuticles gently with a cuticle pusher, and buff the surface of your nails lightly to remove any shine. Clean you’re nails thoroughly with an alcohol wipe to remove any oils or debris.

2. Apply a Base Coat A good base coat is essential for a long-lasting gel manicure. Apply primer and a thin layer of Stronger Base-1 to each nail, making sure to cap the free edge to prevent chipping. Cure the base coat under an LED or UV lamp according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually for about 60 seconds. This step ensures that your gel color adheres well to your nails.

nails with base coat applied

3. Apply the Gel Color Now it's time for the fun part: the color! Apply a thin layer of your chosen gel polish to each nail. I’m using the gel polish color salt & sand which is so pretty. Remember to cap the free edge here as well to ensure longevity. Cure the first layer under your LED or UV lamp. Apply a second thin layer for full opacity and cure again. Be mindful not to apply too thick of a layer, as this can cause the polish to wrinkle or bubble.

2 coats of color applied

4. Apply Nail Design and a Top Coat After your color layers are fully cured, you can add your nail art to the base layer like I did here.

Applying Artiste gel to base color layer

  • Once you apply your Artiste gel with your dotting tool, place elongated circles on nails in the order you would like it to look. The blooming gel will help the polish expand. Do not cure this layer until you’re ready for your design to stay exactly where it is to your liking.

Applying the color watermelon on top of the artiste gel.

Applying nail art to the next finger, I work 2-3 nails at a time.

fingers finished and completed using artiste gel

or apply a thin layer of gel top coat to seal in the color and add shine. Again, make sure to cap the free edge to prevent premature chipping. Cure the top coat under your lamp for the recommended time. The top coat helps protect your manicure and gives it that salon-quality finish.

5. Clean and Moisturize Finally, apply cuticle oil and hand cream to keep your nails and skin hydrated and healthy. Regular moisturizing will also help extend the life of your gel manicure.

By following these five simple steps, you can achieve a great gel manicure at home or the salon. Enjoy your beautiful, long-lasting nails! Check out the video of this look to see the step by step process. Leave a comment if you found this blog helpful and share with a friend who needs this tutorial.

Products Used:

  • Base gel-Stronger Base-1

  • gel color- Salt & Sand Unity

  • metal nail file

  • lamp