How to Achieve Nail Tech Level Gel Manicure at Home

Before you start, gather the following tools and products:

• Nail dehydrator
• Nail clippers
• Buffer
• Cuticle pusher and remover
• Nail prep solution
• Base coat and top coat gel polish
• Gel polish (your choice of color)
• LED/UV nail lamp

1. Prep Your Nails

Remove Old Polish: If you have gel polish on, soak cotton balls in gel polish remover or acetone, place them on your nails, and wrap each nail in foil. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes, then gently push off the softened polish with an orange stick.

Trim and Shape: Use nail clippers to trim your nails to your desired length. Then, use a nail file to shape them. File in one direction to avoid splitting and create your preferred shape: square, round, or oval.

Buff the Nails: Gently buff the surface of your nails to remove shine and create a slightly rough surface for the gel polish to adhere better.

2. Care for Your Cuticles

Soften Cuticles: Apply a cuticle remover or oil to your cuticles to soften them, making it easier to push them back.

Push Back Cuticles: Using a cuticle pusher, gently push back your cuticles. Be careful not to push too hard to avoid damaging the nail bed.

Remove Excess Cuticle: If necessary, trim any excess cuticle with a cuticle nipper, but be cautious to avoid cutting too much, which can lead to infection.

3. Exfoliate and Moisturize

Exfoliate: Use a hand scrub to exfoliate your hands, focusing on the cuticle area to remove any dead skin cells. Rinse and pat your hands dry.

Sunscreen: Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to protect your hands from the harmful UV light. This way, you can help protect your hands from premature aging.

4. Prep for Gel Polish

Clean Nails: Wipe your nails with rubbing alcohol or a nail prep solution using lint-free wipes to remove any oils or residue from the moisturizer.

Use a Dehydrator: This step is crucial for ensuring your gel polish adheres properly.

5. Apply Base Coat Gel Polish

Base Coat: Apply a thin layer of base coat gel polish to your nails. Ensure you cover the entire nail surface and cap the free edge (tip of the nail). Cure under an LED/UV lamp for the recommended time specified by the gel polish brand.

6. Apply Gel Polish

First Coat: Apply a thin, even layer of your chosen gel polish color. Avoid getting polish on the skin or cuticles. Cure under the LED/UV lamp for the recommended time.

Second Coat: Apply a second thin layer for full coverage and a richer color. Cure this coat thoroughly under the lamp. Repeat this step as needed.

Get inspired:

Browse gel polish color options

7. Finish with a Top Coat

Top Coat: Apply a thin layer of top coat gel polish to seal the color, add shine, and protect your manicure. Make sure to cap the free edge. Cure under the LED/UV lamp for the recommended time.

Remove Tacky Layer: After curing the top coat, your nails may feel sticky. Use a lint-free wipe and rubbing alcohol or a gel cleanser to remove the tacky residue, revealing a shiny, hard finish.

8. Clean Up Edges

Clean-Up: Use a clean-up brush or a cotton swab dipped in gel polish remover to clean any gel polish that may have gotten on the skin around your nails. This step ensures a neat, professional finish.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Gel Manicure

• Avoid Hot Water: Prolonged exposure to hot water can cause your gel polish to lift. Wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning.
• Moisturize Regularly: Keep your hands and cuticles moisturized to prevent dryness and peeling.
• Be Gentle: Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape off stickers. This can cause your polish to chip and damage your nails.
• Touch Up: If you notice any chips or peeling, you can lightly buff the area and apply a small amount of gel polish and top coat to repair it.

Removing Gel Polish

When it’s time to remove your gel polish, do it carefully to avoid damaging your nails:

• Soak Off: Soak cotton balls in gel polish remover or acetone, place them on your nails, and wrap each nail in foil. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
• Gently Remove: Use an orange stick to gently push off the softened polish. Avoid scraping too hard to prevent nail damage.
• Buff and Moisturize: Lightly buff your nails to smooth any rough spots, then moisturize your nails and cuticles thoroughly.

Check out this miracle gel polish remover kit to ease the process