Gel nail extensions are more in style than ever, and most of us have a folder full of manicure tutorials and nail art ideas stored somewhere. While a manicure on natural nails is certainly stylish, having longer, more robust nails exude a certain kind of glamour.
Certain individuals just have naturally strong, long nails from birth. But you have undoubtedly heard of people who use acrylic or extensions to lengthen and strengthen their nails, which eventually makes nail paint last longer.
Here’s where gel nail extensions come into play. In this article, we’ll go over all there is to know about gel nail extensions.
What are Gel Nail Extensions?
The procedure for applying gel nail extensions entails building hard gel onto a natural nail and curing it with UV radiation. Subsequently, the manicurist extends the length of the nail by applying a nail shape, which is a sticker placed beneath the free edge or tip.
They are available in a variety of forms and sizes, including square, coffin, round, and stiletto. As an alternative to artificial nails, gel nails are healthier. With natural gel nail extensions, you can create long colorful nails as a stylish way to express yourself.
How to Apply Gel Nail Extensions?
Let’s have a look at the process of applying gel nail extensions step by step:
- Prep Your Natural Nail
The first step entails meticulously cleaning your natural nails. Until and unless the base is clean, the coating will not be neat and set properly. Remove any previous nail pail with the help of acetone and cotton. Trim and shape the nail as per your desired shape and length, offering a solid base for the gel extensions.
- Apply a Base Coat
Start the process with a thin layer of gel base coat. This step helps primes the nail and allows better adhesion for next layers, resulting in extension staying for longer time.
- Build Hard Gel
Apply hard gel carefully to your natural nails using a gel brush. Slowly and gradually build up the gel in order to get the preferred thickness. This ensures thorough covering for a robust and uniform base.
- Cure with UV Radiation
In the next step, cure the nails by them under a UV lamp for the prescribed curing time duration. This step makes sure your gel is set firmly in place for a durable and long-lasting application.
- Shape the Extensions
Once your nails are cured, shape them with the help of a nail file. Choose from various nail shape, including stiletto, square, round, or coffin. Add a personalized touch to your extension by selecting the one that you feel most comfortable and stylish with.
- Apply Nail Forms or Stickers
Place nail forms or stickers below the free edge or tip to stretch the length. Firmly secure them, setting the base for the preferred nail length.
- Add Additional Gel Layers
Apply gel layers one after the other in order to enhance and strengthen the extensions. Cure every layer by placing them under the UV lamp, gradually building a smooth and robust surface.
- Shape and Buff
Use a bugger or nail file to smoothen out the surface and shape of the extensions. This meticulous step enhances the overall look, guaranteeing a polished and professional finish.
- Apply Top Coat
Finish off your flawless extensions with one final top coat. This ensures that the nail enhancements will last longer while also improving its aesthetic appeal. The top coat provides an extra layer of protection and resilience.
- Final Cure
For one final curing step, place the complete set under the UV lamp. The last cure stage ensures that the extensions are correctly placed and ready for extended wear by solidifying the hardening process.
Advantages of Gel Nail Extensions
Application of gel nail extensions has several benefits, which is why women choose them so frequently. Let’s examine a few advantages it offers:
- Durability
Due to their robustness and capacity to handle daily activities, gel nail extensions are well-known for their longevity.
- Natural Look
Gel nail extensions blend in smoothly with natural nails to create a polished, natural-looking manicure.
- Versatility in Shapes and Lengths
Due to their wide range of sizes and forms, gel nail extensions can be tailored to each person’s preferences and sense of style.
- Faster Application
In contrast to regular nail paints, gel manicures use a UV-Led light to cure and harden. In 30 to 60 seconds, gel polish dries. Normal nail paints, however, require 10 to 14 minutes to dry, depending on the brand.
Ending Words
Everything becomes simpler with the perfect guide to flawless gel nail extensions, which also becomes a reliable resource for long-lasting results. Regardless of your expertise level, this article will make shaping and priming natural nails effortless.
It makes the journey accessible to everyone by catering to both specialists and amateurs. For anybody seeking stunning, long-lasting nails, gel extensions are a fantastic choice.