The latest UV gel nail polishes usually trump standard nail polishes for both durability and shine. But, have you ever wondered if you can use a combination of the two to get the durability of gel and the economy of the regular polishes you already own? Yes you can! Follow the simple instructions and you'll create a beautiful high gloss shine that should last a week and a half or more.
Edit Steps
- Clip and shape your nails.
- Clean off cuticles with a cuticle remover.
- Clean your nails thoroughly with rubbing alcohol. This will remove the oils and lotions, ensuring the nail polish will bond tightly to your nails. That way, your polish will not chip or peel as quickly.
- Apply your favorite regular base coat. Let it dry fully.
- Apply regular nail polish for color. Let it dry fully.
- Apply a clear UV gel top coat. Make sure to keep the layer even and thin.
- Clean up any spots that went onto your skin.
- Make sure to paint the edges of your nails to help seal the edges and prevent premature lifting and peeling.
- Cure the UV gel top coat. Apply sunscreen to your hands, then expose the gel top coat to a UV light for 30 secs (or the time recommended by the brand).
- Remove the tacky layer (if any). Sometimes, a tacky layer called the inhibition layer may form. Use a nail cleanser (recommended by some brands) or rubbing alcohol to wipe this layer off and achieve a smooth, shiny surface.
- Done!
Edit Tips
- Use the foil and cotton ball method to remove your polish or dip in 100% pure acetone nail polish remover for several minutes.
- Make sure your regular nail polish is 100% dry before applying gel or it will not last as long as expected (2 weeks).
- Use a really good base coat to ensure polish adheres to your nails.
- File any areas where the nail is flaking or peeling so it won't peel after your manicure. Use a fine grit nail buffer to smooth the edges and surfaces.
- Make sure the UV gel nail polish is compatible with your UV nail lamp. Some gels will only cure under UV bulbs and some will only cure under UV LEDs.
Edit Warnings
- Please work in a well ventilated area.
- Apply sunscreen to your hands before curing UV gels.
- Acetone is flammable. Do not use near sparks or open flames.
Edit Things You'll Need
- Cuticle remover
- Nail clippers
- Nail buffer and filer
- Base coat nail polish
- Regular nail polish
- clear UV top coat gel polish
- UV lamp
- Rubbing alcohol
- Sunscreen
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