HOW TO APPLY GEL POLISH PERFECTLY: A SIMPLE DIY GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS

Ever dream of achieving salon-quality nails at home? Gel polish can be your secret weapon! It offers long-lasting shine, vibrant colors, and chip-resistant wear – all without the hefty price tag of a professional manicure. But achieving that perfect gel polish application can seem daunting at first. Fear not, aspiring nail artist! This guide will break down the process into simple steps, making you a gel polish pro in no time. Get ready to ditch the chipped nails and embrace stunning, long-lasting manicures you can create yourself!

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO APPLY GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

CUTICLE OIL

Gel curing and especially gel polish removal can dry out your nails, cuticles, and surrounding skin. To maintain moisture in your skin and nail plate, it’s beneficial to invest in cuticle oil.

UV/LED LAMP

A UV/LED curing lamp is essential for gel nails, as it hardens the gel polish layers, making the nails more durable and chip-resistant. “Curing” refers to drying gel nails under a UV/LED lamp, where the light activates a chemical reaction that quickly dries the nails, preventing chipping or smudging immediately after application. This process is why gel manicures last longer than most other types of manicures.

CUTICLE PUSHER

A cuticle pusher is used to expose more of your nail bed, helping your manicure last longer by delaying the visible growth of your nails under the polish.

NAIL BUFF

A nail buffer is an essential part of your nail kit. It gently prepares your nail’s surface by smoothing and evening out imperfections, ensuring an easy and flawless application of gel polish.

NAIL FILE

A nail file shapes your nails and removes gel polish by smoothing the edges and grinding down the surface. This helps maintain the desired nail shape and prepares the nails for new polish.

To remove gel nails, use a medium grit file. For soak-off gel polish, use a 180 grit nail file to remove the hardened top coat before removing the polish.

Tip: you want to avoid damaging the natural nail underneath by using too coarse a nail file.

ACETONE

Acetone is used to clean your nails before applying gel polish and to remove the polish afterward. Any acetone with a content of 60 percent or more will work effectively.

Before application, acetone removes oils and residues to create a clean surface for the gel polish. During removal, it breaks down the gel polish for easy removal. Use cotton balls or lint-free nail wipes to apply the acetone, ensuring no fuzz is left on your nails.

UV GEL MANICURE GLOVES

Wearing UV gel manicure gloves protects your skin from the UV light used to cure gel polish. This is important because long-term exposure to UV light can damage your skin. The gloves shield your skin from unnecessary UV ray exposure.

NAIL CLIPPERS

Nail clippers are used to shape your nails before a gel manicure. Avoid clipping your nails after applying gel polish, as it can break the seal at the tip and cause the polish to peel off.

GEL TOP COAT

A gel top coat is crucial when applying gel polish as it seals in the color, delivering a glossy finish that safeguards nails from chipping and peeling.

GEL BASE COAT

A gel base coat is essential as it ensures the gel polish adheres securely to the natural nail, creating a smooth surface that enhances the durability of gel nails. This is why gel manicures have a longer lifespan compared to regular nail polish.

GEL POLISH

Now comes the enjoyable part—choose your favorite gel colors or try something new!

APPLY GEL NAIL POLISH: STEP BY STEP

CUT AND FILE NAILS

To achieve a stunning gel manicure, begin by shaping your nails. Trim them to your desired size and shape using a nail clipper, then use a nail file to smooth out the edges for flawless application.

 PUSH YOUR CUTICLES DOWN

Utilize a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles, creating a cleaner and more visible nail surface. This tool also helps remove dead skin from the nail plate and promotes even cuticle maintenance. Avoid trimming your cuticles, as this can increase the risk of nail infections by exposing the nail bed.

BUFF YOUR NAILS

Gently buff your nails to smooth the surface and enhance their natural shine, preparing them to bond effectively with gel polish. Avoid excessive buffing, which can weaken and thin your nails.

CLEAN NAILS

Thoroughly cleanse your nails with rubbing alcohol to ensure the polish adheres directly to your natural nail. Any residues like cuticle oil or dust particles can cause premature lifting of the polish.

APPLY GEL BASE COAT

Start with a strong foundation! Apply a thin layer of gel base coat to each nail, ensuring it reaches all the way to the tips (capping the free edge) for extra chip resistance. Once all your nails are coated, cure them under a UV lamp or LED light according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 45 seconds to 1 minute). 

Don’t worry about the tacky feeling – this is normal for uncured gel polish. Just resist the urge to touch your nails, as that can mess up the application.

APPLY GEL POLISH

Now, for the fun part – color! Use thin coats to paint each nail, reaching close to the cuticle but avoiding your skin (a clean-up brush can be handy for minor mistakes). Two thin coats are ideal for most colors, but feel free to add more for extra vibrancy. Remember, thin is better than thick for a smooth, even finish. After each coat, cure your nails under the UV/LED lamp according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 45-60 seconds). That sticky feeling is normal, so resist touching your nails until you’re done!

APPLY GEL TOP COAT

Shine on! Finish your masterpiece with a thin layer of gel top coat, ensuring you cover the entire nail and cap the free edge for ultimate protection. Cure your nails under the UV/LED lamp for at least a minute (as per instructions) to completely dry and seal the polish. Some gels might leave a slightly tacky residue – no worries, a gentle wipe with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol will take care of that, revealing your perfectly polished nails!

HOW TO APPLY GEL POLISH ON ACRYLICS

When combining gel polish with acrylic nails, your nail art can remain intact for up to 6 weeks with minimal touch-ups. Before proceeding, familiarize yourself with the differences between gel and acrylic nails.

Here are the recommended steps to follow:

Begin by removing old polish using a non-acetone nail polish remover. This step is crucial to ensure thorough removal of any residual polish from the nail.

Clean and dry the nail completely to eliminate any residue that could affect the application. It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals that might react with the acrylic. Opt for gentle options like baby wipes or thorough hand washing.

Apply an acrylic-friendly base coat, followed by colored polish and a top coat. Treat acrylic nails similarly to natural nails when applying gel polish, using the steps outlined above. Ensure the base coat is compatible with acrylic to prevent staining.

HOW TO APPLY NAIL TIPS WITH GEL OVERLAY

You can apply gel polish to store-bought nail tips that are glued over your natural nails. The process resembles regular gel polish application but with a few key differences.

Start by pushing back your cuticles, gently buffing the nail surface, and ensuring they are clean. Apply a thin coat of nail glue to each nail and carefully place the nail tips, rocking them to eliminate any trapped air bubbles.

Adjust the size and shape of the nail tips as necessary. Afterward, buff and clean the nail surface before proceeding to apply gel polish. Begin with a base coat followed by at least two layers of color, curing each coat as you apply it.

Before applying the top coat, remove any tacky residue, lightly buff the top color layer, and clean it. Finally, apply and cure the top coat to seal and ensure long-lasting results.

HOW TO APPLY NAIL DECALS OVER GEL POLISH

Ready to level up? Explore Nail Art! Gel polish is perfect for nail art because it allows your designs to shine (literally!) for longer. Here’s a beginner-friendly option using nail decals:

Pick your base: Apply your desired gel polish color as the foundation for your artwork.

Decal magic: Choose your decal design and carefully cut out the section you want to use.

Water decals? Easy! Simply dip a water decal in water to separate it from the backing, then place it on your nail.

Smooth operator: Gently use a wooden stick or your finger to flatten the decal onto your nail. You can even add details or pops of color with extra polish.

Seal the deal: Once your design is perfect, cure it under the lamp for at least 30 seconds. Finish with a layer of gel top coat, cure again, and voila! Show off your artistic masterpiece!

HOW TO MAINTENANCE GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

Prolong your Gel Mani Magic:

Hydration is key: Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your nails and surrounding skin nourished. This helps prevent chipping and peeling.

Give it time to set: Avoid direct contact with water for at least an hour after your manicure. This allows the gel polish to fully cure and harden.

Gloves are your friend: Protect your nails when doing chores! Wear gloves for washing dishes, cleaning, or anything that involves harsh chemicals.

Shine it on: Apply a top coat every few days to add an extra layer of protection and boost the shine and longevity of your gel polish.

HOW TO REMOVE GEL NAIL POLISH AT HOME?

Removing gel nail polish is akin to removing acrylic nails, providing comfort and relief for your fingers. Ready for a Refresh? Here’s how to remove your gel polish safely:

Soften it Up: Soak cotton balls in 100% acetone and place them on each nail.

Seal the Deal: Wrap each fingertip snugly with aluminum foil to create a little pocket. This helps trap the acetone and speeds up the removal process.

Patience is Key: Relax and let the magic happen! Soak your nails for at least 10 minutes. The gel polish should be lifting or dissolving easily.

Buff and Moisturize: Once the polish is gone, gently buff your nails to remove any residue. Finish by pampering your nails and cuticles with a nourishing moisturizer or cuticle oil.

FAQ

1. Do I need to prep my nails before applying gel polish?

Absolutely! Gently push back your cuticles, buff your nails to remove shine, and clean them with alcohol wipes to remove any oils.

2. How thin should the gel polish layers be?

Thin coats are key! Multiple thin layers will create a smooth, opaque finish that’s less prone to chipping.

3. What if I accidentally get gel polish on my skin?

Don’t panic! Before curing, use a cotton swab dipped in acetone or alcohol to gently wipe away the mistake.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it! With a little practice and these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving salon-quality gel manicures from the comfort of your own home. Remember, start with prepping your nails properly, apply thin coats of gel polish, and cure them according to the instructions. Don’t forget to moisturize your nails and avoid harsh chemicals to extend the life of your manicure. Now get creative and have fun with different colors and even try some beginner-friendly nail art! With gel polish, your stunning nails are just a few steps away!

How to Create Chic 90s Outfits for Women Inspiringly

The 90s is making a comeback. It was a decade that embraced bold fashion experimentation and creativity. The 90s fashion was marked by a wide range of trends and styles, and till now they still inspire fashion today. The 90s fashion broke all barriers and showed individuality. When it came to 90’s outfits for women, spirited and diverse were what everyone thought of. And to this day, the 90s fashion still inspires fashion in the modern era, especially women’s fashion. For 90’s outfits for women, check out this guide for more!  

What are 90’s Outfits for Women

The 90s was a remarkable decade for fashion. It was all about self-expression and creativity. People tend to push all the boundaries of fashion and express themselves more, making them more unique and unforgettable. While the 90s grunge movement had a rebellious spirit akin to 80s punk fashion, it channeled that energy through ripped jeans and flannels instead of leather jackets and spiked hair. 

This fashion era was heavily influenced by many celebrities like Britney Spears, Destiny’s Child, and No Doubt. When mentioning 90’s fashion trends, the first things that come to our mind are the bright colors and bold patterns. The 90s fashion was diverse and included a variety of styles, from grunge, punk, hip-hop, preppy, and more. In recent years, 90s fashion has made its comeback. From dresses, pants, and tops to accessories, shoes, and hairstyles, there are many 90s outfits worth wearing in recent years

Women’s Clothes in the 90s

The 90’s outfits for women ranged from preppy to bohemian and urban to grunge. There were many items attached to it. The 90s fashion was known for its bold look of clothes that fit perfectly with the cultural aesthetic of the times. Now, let’s take a look at those popular women’s clothes in the 90s.

croptop in the 1990s

Crop tops and Baby tees were the most popular among girls at that time. They were often paired with high-waisted jeans or skirts, sometimes with baggy pants and shorts or even worn under overall. Oversize graphic tees were also commonly worn among women during the 1990s. These tees were usually paired with denim shorts or loose-fitting pants. To this day, those tops remain their popularity among females. Most girls have at least one of them in their wardrobes, making their outfits look better.

The 90s had brought us mom jeans, flared jeans, and more. In the 90s people loved wearing those oversized and loose pants. They were like daily items of women at that time. Mom jeans were often paired with tucked-in shirts or crop tops. While flared jeans were paired with a black satin cowl neck tank top to make this look trendy.

Slip dress in 1990s

There were many kinds of dresses during the 1990s, including slip dresses, babydoll dresses, and maxi dresses. Among those, slip dresses were the most well-known. Slip dresses were made of silky or satin fabrics, with lace trim on. They were worn with chunky platform shoes and a choker, which gave off a sexy vibe. Baby dresses were paired with Dr. Martens boots and a denim jacket. Maxi dresses were long and flowy, they were worn with strappy sandals and oversized sunglasses.

Chokers were the most famous accessories during the 1990s and to this day, they remain their popularity. They came in many styles and materials, incorporating velvet and leather. Other popular accessories were bucket hats. They were a staple of 90s women’s fashion hip-hop. They were often worn with oversized sunglasses and hoops earrings. 

How to dress like 90s? 

As the 90s fashion trend is reborn again, women wonder how to dress like 90s. If you are looking for outfit ideas inspired by the 90s, there are many styles for you to choose from. Maybe you can add some flavors to your 90s outfit ideas and make them more relevant to today’s fashion.

Grunge style can not be forgotten when it comes to 90s outfit ideas. It involves dark clothing, flannel shirts, and ripped jeans. If nostalgia is something you are looking for, grunge fashion is the way to go. The grunge style goes against the colorful and preppy looks.  

To look edgier, dark-colored clothing, black chokers, and converse sneakers are things you need.

If you prefer a more colorful but classic style, the preppy style would be a perfect choice. Unlike grunge style, the preppy look is involved with bright, pastel colors, knitwear clothing, and Mary Jane shoes. Classic and cute may be what we define as this look. To achieve this look, you can wear a plaid jacket or a light-colored cardigan. A plaid skirt should be taken into consideration.

Hip-hop fashion was also popular in the 1990s. It is known for oversized clothing, baggy pants, and jacket are examples. A hip-hop-inspired outfit for you is the combination of baggy pants with a crop top. A pair of chunky sneakers and hoop earrings would be better. 

Preppy style 

For cute 90s outfits, a baby tee paired with mom jeans and white sneakers is a perfect combination for those who want to achieve an adorable look. 

These are some outfit ideas that can fit any personal style. You can freely change it to suit your preference. Or just wear anything you want to because the 90s fashion has no boundaries. 

In general,  not only did 90s fashion bring many iconic styles to life but it helped people to show their individuality, especially for women to live their best. Even though the 1990s are now long gone, the influence it has on fashion remains to this day. As you see nowadays, several 90s fashion trends have come back and many people are obsessed with those items like crop tops, baby tees, flared jeans, and more. Accessories like chokers, scrunchies, and bucket hats are also popular among fashion enthusiasts. Whether what you’re looking for is a casual, grunge-inspired look or a vintage-inspired outfit, there’s something in 90s fashion to suit every taste.

Sometimes changing your modern style to a 90s style make you look more different, unique, and fashionable. So why not start searching for some 90s items and add them to your cart as your future purchase? Who knows maybe you might need it when you see your favorite celebrities dress like the 90s.