I have been experimenting with my nails since 6th grade. After years of struggling with the same issues (Why do my nails pop off after a week? Why do they look so lumpy?) I have finally built a routine that is affordable and makes my salon quality n...
Sections
3
Prep
Doing the nails
After
Prep
First, moisturize your hands and gently remove your cuticle. Then, file your nails to remove the shine. Lastly, dehydrate the nail to remove any moisture and add primer to prepare for the gel.
Cuticle trimmers are a must. These are sharp and great quality, so they last for years. Trust me - dull trinkets will make your life so much more difficult.
Cuticle Trimmer Sharp Nippers Scissors Opove X7
You NEED nail files. This is not the same as the nail drill. The drill is super useful for removing color or old gel, but these are needed for precise shaping so they don’t look weird and chunky. Also, you need to use them to remove the shine off ...
HeeYaa 12PCS Reusable 100/180 Grit Nail Files
This is for nail prep. Honestly it’s optional but the dehydrator helps the nails last longer
modelones 15ml Nail Dehydrator & Primer Kit
Doing the nails
It’s time for the fun part. Apply a thin layer of the gel on your nail, do not cure. Then make it thicker, focus it on the middle of your nail and flip your finger upside down for a few seconds. This helps build an apex. Cure it. Hold it on a la...
This is THE BEST base gel you could get. It is affordable and actually lasts on the nails. I used to have so many issue with my nails popping off in under a week but after using this base consistently for a year, I can safely say that this stays on...
Kodi Professional 8ml Gel LED/UV Nail Coat
You need a light like this to cure any type of gel. It is important that you get one that is strong, do not cheap out on it. In general they’re pretty affordable, but still. If your gel doesn’t cure properly you will get contact dermatitis.
SUNUV UV LED Nail Lamp, Gel Light, White
To do your own gel nails, you need a nail drill. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive, especially if you’re a beginner. This one and many others from Amazon are super cheap and last years. Iv had mine since 2023 and it works the exact same.
MelodySusie USB Nail Drill PC120I 20000RPM
Extra drill bits are a necessity that nobody talks about. Your nail drill should come with some, but this gives you so much more variety. Also, it comes in a cute case so you never lose them.
26PCS Ceramic Nail Drill Bits Set with Case
Get yourself a nice staple color to start off with. Trying to find yo it perfect nude is complicated, but this light pink is nice.
Ballet Pink #601
After
When you’re fully done with your nails, wash your hands and finish off with some oil.
Finish it off with a nice oil. After poking and filing them for hours, they need a break.