Nowadays, more and more people are choosing to perform beauty treatments at home. Gel manicure is one of the more popular choices – it provides a lasting effect of beautiful and well-groomed nails, and with a bit of practice, it can be done independently. So how do you carry out this procedure in the comfort of your home? Is it really as difficult as it seems? Let’s try to dispel these doubts and share our experiences.
What is a gel manicure?
A gel manicure is a nail styling method that allows for a durable and aesthetic effect. Unlike traditional nail polish, gel hardens under UV or LED light, making it resistant to mechanical damage and chipping. It is worth noting that gel nails can be an ideal solution for people who struggle with brittle and splitting nails.
Is it worth investing in gel manicure equipment?
Before we move on to the process itself, it is worth considering whether investing in gel manicure equipment is worthwhile for us. A UV or LED lamp, a set of gels, files, buffing blocks, cleaner, primer – these are the basic tools we will need. The initial cost may seem high, but if we regularly visit a beauty salon, the investment will quickly pay off. Additionally, by doing a manicure at home, we have full control over the process and can tailor it to our own needs.
Preparing the nails
The first step in achieving the perfect gel manicure is proper nail preparation. We start by removing old polish (if there is any) and gently pushing back the cuticles. Next, we shape the nails with a file. It is worth investing in files of different grits to precisely match them to your needs.
The next step is to buff the nail plate with a buffing block. This helps the gel adhere better, which translates into the durability of the manicure. At this stage, it is also worth using a cleaner to degrease the nail surface.
Applying the gel
We move on to the most important stage – applying the gel. We start by applying a thin layer of primer, which will increase the gel’s adhesion. Then we apply the base gel and cure it under a UV or LED lamp. Here, it is important to pay attention to the curing time, which may vary depending on the gel manufacturer and the type of lamp.
After curing the base, we apply the colored gel, creating thin layers, which we also cure under the lamp. Remember that each layer should be evenly distributed to prevent unsightly streaks or air bubbles.
Finishing and care
The final step is applying a top coat, which gives the nails shine and additionally protects the color. After curing the top, we use the cleaner again to remove the sticky dispersion layer. Finally, it is worth taking care of the cuticles by applying oil to moisturize and soften them.
Gel manicure at home – is it for everyone?
Performing a gel manicure at home requires some practice and patience. For beginners, it may be challenging, but practice makes perfect. If we do not feel confident, we can always look for online courses or tutorials that will guide us through the entire process step by step.
Our opinion at Easy Nails
From our experience at Easy Nails, we find that doing a gel manicure yourself is an excellent way to save time and money. However, it requires commitment and a willingness to learn. Is it worth trying? Definitely yes! Self-made nails provide great satisfaction and allow experimenting with different styles and colors.
And what are your experiences with gel manicure? Have you tried doing it at home, or do you prefer to leave it to professionals? What is your opinion on this topic? We would love to hear your thoughts, and if you have any questions, feel free to write – we will be happy to answer!
