DIY Gel Manicure at Home!
Step 1: Preparation:
Creating beautiful DIY nails at home begins with proper preparation. First, wash your hands and cleanse your nails using 100% pure acetone. Next, trim your nails to your desired length and file them into your preferred shape, ensuring you file gently across the entire surface to promote polish adhesion; the nails should appear white and chalky. I use the 6 pcs Nail Files and Buffers for Natural Nails Set which I absolutely love! If you're using nail tips, be sure to check out our guide on that!
Step 2: Cuticle Care
The next step involves cuticle care. Apply a cuticle softener to each nail near the cuticle area and allow it to work for 1-2 minutes. After soaking, wipe away any excess and gently push back the cuticles while removing dead skin from the nail plate. This step is crucial, as any remaining cuticle can cause the gel to lift. Once your cuticles are pushed back, carefully use cuticle nippers to trim away any dead tissue that has turned white, taking care not to cut into live skin. Your nails should now be primed for polish.
Step 3: Base Coat
A common myth about gel nails is that a thick base coat leads to peeling, but this isn’t actually the case if your nails are properly prepped. A thicker base can actually enhance your nail strength! Therefore, before you apply the base coat make sure you clean your nails thoroughly with a scrub brush and acetone. Then apply two coats of a non-acid nail primer. For application, start with a small amount at the base into the nail plate, then float the polish over the entire nail for a flawless look and added durability. Cure the base coat under an LED gel lamp for 60 seconds. I use the SUNUV SUN3 Professional UV Light, it’s a little expensive but I’ve tried many and this one is high-quality and it dries my nails so fast! I highly suggest using the Led Nail Gloves if you are planning on doing your nails at home often, to help protect your skin. Also, a small nail brush can help you tidy up any errors! I use the Artdone Nail Brush Tool Set because of its versatility!
Step 4: Flawless Finish
After curing, apply two layers of your chosen color, curing each for 30 seconds. I applied shade A420 from the Beetles Red Gel Nail Polish Set. It's my favorite, and I just can't get enough of red! To complete you manicure, use a high-shine no-wipe top coat. Be aware that some topcoats may leave a tacky residue after curing, so if yours does, simply wipe it off with alcohol. For added durability, consider floating the topcoat slightly during application. After curing for 60 seconds, ensure your nails are free of any tacky layer before applying cuticle oil, and remember to reapply it throughout the day! I am known to wash my hands frequently throughout my day therefore this step is crucial for me. So if you are like me make sure you are too! This will help with maintaining flexibility in your nails, preventing brittleness and chipping. Once you’ve massaged cuticle oil, you’re all set! These DIY nails can last you anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks, providing a fun activity while you binge your comfort show or watch your favorite streamer all while saving you money in the long run!
