gel nail polish lifting

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!

31 TRENDY OVAL NAIL DESIGNS THAT ARE HOT RIGHT NOW

If you’re seeking a sophisticated and modern nail style that aligns with current fashion trends, opting for an oval-shaped nail is undoubtedly the right decision. The oval nail shape imparts a soft and elegant appearance. To make your nails look most impressive, choose one of the 31 oval nail designs below that can complement your individual style. Read on!

GREEN AURA NAILS

Green is a color linked to nature, rejuvenation, and harmony. Your summer style with a green aura design, utilizing your preferred green shade from Essie or OPI combined with Sally Hansen’s nude polish. Achieve a monochromatic aesthetic by incorporating various green tones, producing a stunning gradient effect. For an extra touch of sophistication, consider adding intricate details such as delicate leaf patterns, floral accents, or a hint of glitter to infuse glamour into your design.

PEARLY OVAL NAILS

When exploring designs reminiscent of the ocean and its underwater beauty, pearl nails stand out. For a simple yet elegant oval acrylic nail design, this option is ideal, requiring only the perfect nail polish. OPI offers a range of pearl nail colors, allowing you to find the one that complements your skin tone. As a general guideline, cool undertones pair well with grays, browns, blues, greens, and purples, while warm undertones are enhanced by bright or light colors. Neutral undertones can effortlessly carry bold and bright color choices.

MILKY WHITE TIPS

These fashionable oval nails in a milky white shade are on-trend, showcasing not only their appealing shape but also a translucent finish that adds a touch of sophistication. The soft, muted hue gives an elegant and modern look to the nails, making them versatile for various occasions and styles. The translucent finish adds a subtle and refined quality, creating a chic and understated appearance that can complement different outfits and aesthetics.

COLOR BLOCK

For a contemporary twist on oval-shaped nail designs, experiment with contrasting colors to form distinct color blocks on your nails. Choose contrasting hues for your color block nail design, designating one as the primary base color. Employ a nail stripe or freehand technique to delineate sections on your nails, then apply the contrasting colors within those sections. Ensure each color dries thoroughly before progressing to the next to avoid smudging and achieve a polished and vibrant color block effect.

LEOPARD SILHOUETTES

The negative space leopard design combines the timeless allure of animal print with a modern, minimalist twist. This chic and sophisticated nail art showcases the perfect balance between subtlety and style. The strategic use of negative space adds a touch of contemporary flair, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The subdued yet fashionable pattern effortlessly elevates your overall look, providing a versatile and trendy option for your nail aesthetics.

GRADIENT OVAL ART

Why settle for less when it comes to choosing your oval nail designs? This vertical gradient nail art brings together all your favorite colors, seamlessly transitioning from your thumbnails to your pinky finger. To prevent pigment contamination in your polish, ensure you have a dedicated oval gel brush exclusively for pigments. Opt for colors with harmonious undertones and apply them in thin, precise layers for a flawless and vibrant gradient effect.

MARBLE OVALS

This intricate oval manicure features a mesmerizing translucent marble design in a stunning array of green shades, creating an absolute must-have look. The delicate and detailed patterns on each nail add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your overall appearance. The interplay of different green hues provides depth and visual interest, making this nail design a captivating choice for any occasion.

STICKER NAILS

This nude manicure elevates simplicity with intricate, sticker-like designs, creating a nail art extravaganza that even minimalists can embrace. The delicate embellishments add a touch of whimsy and charm to the neutral base, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate understated elegance with a hint of artistic flair. The carefully crafted details on each nail turn this manicure into a captivating and stylish statement, ensuring your nails stand out with sophistication.

HEART NAILS

These animated heart nails effortlessly captivate attention and refuse to let it go. The sheer wash of glitter forming the base adds a dazzling backdrop that enhances the whimsical charm of the animated hearts. The choice of glitter creates a dreamy and ethereal effect, making this nail design not only eye-catching but also delightfully playful. The animated hearts add a touch of romance and fun, turning your nails into a delightful canvas of sparkling joy.

MAUVE MOMENT

These mauve-and-camel oval nails flawlessly embody sophistication with their rounded shape, incorporation of negative space, and the timeless allure of neutral hues. The juxtaposition of mauve and camel tones creates an elegant and versatile palette that seamlessly merges contemporary style with classic charm. The negative space detailing adds a modern edge to the design, allowing the nails to breathe and enhancing their overall chic aesthetic. This combination of shape, color, and negative space makes this nail design a perfect choice for those seeking a polished and stylish look.

RED FRENCH

While the pastel French tips are undeniably captivating, the allure of this charming red French tip oval nail design is equally worth exploring! Red, a symbol of passion and confidence, takes center stage in this manicure, adding a bold and stylish touch to your overall look. The oval shape enhances the elegance of the design, offering a timeless and sophisticated appeal. The incorporation of red in the French tip brings a sense of vibrancy and boldness, making it a perfect choice for those who want to make a statement with their nails.

DARK MARBLE NAILS

Dive into the captivating world of moody marble nails, where the timeless elegance of black and navy polish takes center stage. This nail design effortlessly combines sophistication with a touch of mystery, offering a unique and alluring aesthetic. The swirling patterns of the marble effect add depth and complexity to the overall look, creating a sense of artistry on your fingertips. The dark and moody hues exude a sense of boldness and individuality, making this manicure a perfect choice for those who crave a bit of drama in their nail art. 

FRENCH TIP NAILS FOR OVAL SHAPE

Your oval nails with the timeless charm of a French manicure. Explore these adorable variants of oval French tip nails, and you’ll be delighted by the refined elegance they bring to your fingertips. The classic French tip design takes on a cute and playful twist, offering a fresh take on a beloved nail art tradition. Delicate lines, subtle color contrasts, or creative patterns add a touch of personality and flair to this iconic style. 

PALE CAMO NAILS

Indulge in the trendy allure of camo nails with a twist of sophistication in this pastel version. The delicate pastel hues bring a chic and modern vibe to the classic camouflage design, offering a playful yet refined aesthetic. The subtle, muted tones create a harmonious blend that captures attention without overpowering. This pastel camo nail design provides a fresh and stylish alternative to traditional camouflage patterns, making it a perfect choice for those who seek a balance between fashion-forward and subtle sophistication.

CORAL TIPS

These captivating coral-and-gold tips showcase a unique and alluring negative space cuticle design. The intentional negative space design cleverly conceals grow-out, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a stylish look without the constant worry of visible regrowth. The combination of vibrant coral and shimmering gold elevates the overall aesthetic, creating a chic and eye-catching effect.

SILVER FOIL

Drenched in metallic charcoal and adorned with silver foil accents, these nails evoke the essence of cloudy days and aspirations reaching beyond the horizon. The moody and sophisticated combination of metallic shades adds an intriguing depth to the overall design. The metallic charcoal base captures the mystique of overcast skies, creating a sense of allure and drama. The addition of silver foil elements introduces a touch of brilliance, reminiscent of dreams that shimmer through the clouds. 

GOLD STRIPES

This chic oval nail design strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. The focal point of this manicure lies in the single golden stripe adorning each nail. This golden accent serves as a captivating embellishment, adding a touch of glamour and elevating the entire design. The combination of neutral tones and luxurious gold results in a refined and eye-catching aesthetic. This design is a testament to the power of minimalism with a touch of opulence.

SPLIT OUTLINES

Transform your nails with a chic and modern take on the classic French manicure. Embrace vibrant creativity by adorning one side with a lively coral shade and the other with a soft, elegant peach hue. This meticulous process guarantees a flawless and sophisticated finish, perfect for those seeking a contemporary twist on traditional nail aesthetics.

ROSE MISMATCH

Indulge in the allure of rosy tones while adding a touch of sparkle to your manicure with this enchanting glittery rendition. Elevate your nail game by exploring the dazzling world of mixed and matched designs that seamlessly blend sophistication and playfulness. The glittery accents add a whimsical dimension, creating a captivating visual feast for anyone who appreciates the artistry of nail aesthetics. 

X MARKS THE SPOT

Embark on a chic nail journey by commencing with a sophisticated nude base, laying the foundation for a glamorous masterpiece. As the nude hues dry to perfection, artfully trace the canvas with intersecting diagonal lines of luxurious gold glitter, adding an opulent touch to each nail. The harmonious fusion of subtlety and sparkle creates a captivating contrast, ensuring your nails become an exquisite statement of elegance.

ASYMMETRIC FRENCH TIPS

Capture the essence of timeless elegance with these oval nails that may appear as a classic French manicure at first glance. However, upon closer inspection, the subtle yet distinctive detail emerges—a graceful extension along one edge, cascading down the side of each nail. This subtle deviation from tradition adds a touch of contemporary flair to the classic French design, creating a harmonious balance between sophistication and innovation. Your nail aesthetic with this refined twist that seamlessly blends the familiarity of a French manicure with a modern, asymmetrical allure.

GLITTER OVAL SHAPED NAILS

The versatility and universal allure of almond-shaped nails, a style that effortlessly complements hands of all shapes and sizes. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this nail shape is a boon for those with weaker nails, providing a flattering and supportive structure.The addition of golden glitter not only enhances the overall beauty of almond-shaped nails but also introduces a captivating sparkle, making them suitable for any occasion. 

ABSTRACT NAILS DESIGNS FOR OVAL SHAPE

Dip your nails into the delightful world of pastel shades, and witness the transformation as these colors infuse your look with a perfect blend of girlish charm and timeless glamour. The length of these nails embraces elegance, making them a canvas for traditional, plain polishes that exude sophistication. However, when the allure of a solid manicure feels a tad too conventional, that’s when the magic of accents steps in. 

GEOMETRIC NAIL ART

As the trend of oval nails takes center stage in the world of fashion-forward nail styles, it’s no surprise that women around the globe are embracing this chic and versatile nail shape. Explore a myriad of incredible nail designs tailored for oval nails and let your creativity run wild as you experiment with the latest and most captivating trends. From subtle and sophisticated to bold and vibrant, these designs are not just a fashion statement; they’re an expression of individuality and style. 

FLAMINGO OVAL NAILS

Indulge in the delightful charm of flamingo nails, where the playful and vibrant hues of pink bring an extra touch of femininity and personality to your manicure. These quirky and adorable flamingo designs are sure to evoke smiles every time you gaze at your impeccably styled nails. Whether you opt for the classic one-legged standing flamingo for a bold statement or choose a more subtle approach with the charming depiction of sitting birds, your nails become a canvas for whimsical and cute avian expressions. 

HAPPY OVAL NAILS

Embrace your eternal optimism and let your nails radiate joy with a happy nail design that mirrors your bright and cheerful disposition. Infuse your manicure with the uplifting hues of pastel shades, creating a palette that resonates with positivity. Elevate the happy vibes by incorporating the universal symbol of joy, a smiling face, into your nail art. Let your manicure become a reflection of your optimistic spirit, radiating positivity and creating a delightful atmosphere wherever you go. 

HOLOGRAPHIC ACCENT OVAL NAILS

Step into the world of trendy and mesmerizing nail art with holographic nails, a captivating style that has taken the spotlight this year. This modern take on the shimmering, color-shifting aesthetic introduces a fresh twist by incorporating super fine glitter, strategically placed to accentuate the tips of your nails while allowing the natural beauty of a nude base to shine through. The allure of holographic nails extends to various nail shapes, and it particularly complements the elegant and versatile oval nails. The subtle play of holographic glimmer against a neutral backdrop creates a chic and sophisticated look, making it a go-to choice for those who seek a balance between glamour and understated elegance. 

LOVE BIRDS OVAL NAILS

Bird-themed nail art has taken the beauty world by storm, and it’s not just flamingo nails that are soaring in popularity. The charm of these feathered friends is undeniable, and women worldwide are embracing the trend for its cute, fun, and personality-infused appeal. The possibilities are endless as you can select your favorite bird species and tailor your design to reflect its distinctive colors and markings. Whether it’s the vibrant hues of a tropical parrot or the elegant simplicity of a dove, bird-themed nail art allows you to express your individuality while staying on-trend. 

PASTEL OVAL NAILS WITH BLACK OUTLINE

The charm of a simple pastel manicure by introducing a stylish black outline. This subtle addition not only imparts a cool, almost 3D effect to your nails but also adds a touch of sophistication to the overall look. Whether you opt for a one-color pastel manicure or experiment with various pastel hues like mint green or pale yellow on different nails, the strategic use of the black outline ensures that the final result appears polished and harmonious. It’s a versatile and chic way to enhance your pastel nail game, allowing you to express your creativity while maintaining a refined and put-together aesthetic.

PINK AND RED OVAL PALETTE NAILS

Explore the captivating beauty of the pink and red color combination by bringing your entire nail polish collection into play. Embrace the latest trend with a palette manicure that showcases each nail adorned with a different texture of pink or red, ranging from matte to satin and glitter. The outcome is not only aesthetically pleasing but also eye-catching, creating a stunning and perfectly pretty ensemble. Dive into the world of diverse textures and shades within the pink and red spectrum, expressing your creativity and making a bold yet sophisticated statement with this fashionable palette manicure.

PINK TIP OVAL FRENCH MANICURE

The timeless French tip manicure with a modern twist by embracing the latest trend – the pink tip French manicure. This reinvention features the classic nude base complemented by a delicately applied super fine hot pink tip, resulting in a subtle yet exceptionally stylish outcome. The boldness of the hot pink hue allows for a minimal amount to make a significant impact. Oval nails are particularly well-suited for the pink tip French manicure, as the contrast detail enhances the beauty of the rounded edges, creating a flattering and contemporary aesthetic. Make a statement with this chic and refined variation, seamlessly blending tradition with a touch of vibrant flair.

CONCLUSION

We’ve presented 31 fashionable oval nail designs, providing a versatile canvas for expressing personal style and creativity. Whether incorporating sparkling colors, intricate patterns, or experimenting with various elements, oval nails offer limitless possibilities. Regardless of nail length, the oval shape remains an excellent choice for accentuating the beauty of your hands.