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DIY Gel Nails Manicure at Home: Beginners Guide 2024

DIY Gel Nails Manicure at Home: Beginners Guide 2024

Do you want beautiful gel nails without going to a salon? Good news! You can do a gel manicure at home. It’s fun, saves money, and you get to show off your creativity. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started.

What You Need

Before you start, gather all the supplies you need:

  • Gel nail polish (base coat, color, and top coat)
  • Nail file and buffer
  • Cuticle pusher
  • Rubbing alcohol or nail cleanser
  • UV or LED nail lamp
  • Cotton pads
  • Nail primer (optional, but helps the polish last longer)

Step 1: Prepare Your Nails

Start by preparing your nails. This helps the gel polish stick better and last longer.

  • Remove old nail polish: Use a cotton pad soaked in nail polish remover to clean your nails.
  • Shape your nails: Use a nail file to shape your nails. You can make them round, square, or any shape you like.
  • Buff your nails: Lightly buff the surface of your nails with a nail buffer. This removes shine and helps the gel polish stick.
  • Push back cuticles: Gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher. Be careful not to hurt yourself.

Step 2: Clean Your Nails

Clean your nails with rubbing alcohol or a nail cleanser on a cotton pad. This removes oils and dust from your nails, helping the polish stick better.

Step 3: Apply the Base Coat

  • Thin layer: Apply a thin layer of the gel base coat to your nails. Make sure you cover the entire nail but avoid the skin around it.
  • Cure under the lamp: Place your hand under the UV or LED lamp and cure (dry) the base coat. Follow the instructions that come with your lamp. It usually takes about 30-60 seconds.

Step 4: Apply the Color Coat

  • Thin layers: Apply a thin layer of the gel color polish. Thin layers help the polish cure properly and prevent peeling.
  • Cure under the lamp: Place your hand under the lamp to cure the polish. Again, follow the instructions, usually about 30-60 seconds.
  • Repeat: Apply a second thin layer of color polish and cure again. If you want a darker color, you can add a third layer, curing each layer.

Step 5: Apply the Top Coat

  • Thin layer: Apply a thin layer of the gel top coat to seal in the color and give your nails a shiny finish.
  • Cure under the lamp: Cure the top coat under the lamp for the recommended time.

Step 6: Clean Your Nails

After curing the top coat, there might be a sticky layer left on your nails. Use a cotton pad with rubbing alcohol to gently wipe off this sticky layer. Now your nails should be smooth and shiny!

Tips for a Great Gel Manicure

  • Be patient: Take your time with each step. Rushing can lead to mistakes and less durable nails.
  • Thin layers: Always apply thin layers of polish. Thick layers may not cure properly and can lead to peeling.
  • Avoid skin: Try not to get any gel polish on your skin. If you do, clean it off before curing to avoid lifting.
  • Practice makes perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first try isn’t perfect. The more you practice, the better you’ll get.
  • Removing Gel Polish: When it’s time to remove your gel polish, do it safely to protect your nails.
  • Soak cotton pads: Soak cotton pads in acetone (nail polish remover).
  • Wrap nails: Place the soaked pads on your nails and wrap them with aluminum foil. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes.
  • Remove polish: Gently push off the gel polish with a cuticle pusher or an orange stick. If it doesn’t come off easily, soak your nails for a bit longer.
  • Buff and moisturize: Buff your nails lightly and apply cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy.

Conclusion

Doing a gel nails manicure at home can be easy and fun. With some practice, you’ll get salon-quality results without leaving your house. Follow this guide, be patient, and soon you’ll have beautiful, long-lasting gel nails that you can show off to your friends. Happy manicuring!

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