Pro Tips for Gel Nail Polish Application

Expert advice to prep, apply, and maintain your gel manicure for salon-quality results.

Use Compatible Products

Use Gelous Base Coat, Colour Coat, Top Coat, and Gel Nail Lamp for guaranteed compatibility and best results.

Apply Away From Sun

Use Gelous Base Coat, Colour Coat, Top Coat, and Gel Nail Lamp for guaranteed compatibility and best results.

Prep Carefully

Push back cuticles, shape nails, and gently buff to create a dull, slightly rough surface. Dehydrate nails, then apply pH Bond and Nail Primer for ultimate adhesion.

Apply Thin Coats

Apply thin, even layers of polish, curing each for 60 seconds to ensure proper adhesion and durability.

Mind the Details

Leave a small gap near cuticles and cap the free edge of every layer to prevent lifting and chipping.

Avoid Skin Contact

Remove any Gel Nail Polish on your skin before curing to prevent reactions or allergies.

Use A Strengthener

Use Rubber Base Coat or Builder Gel to protect and reinforce weak or flaky nails.

Don’t Skip Aftercare

Wear gloves for cleaning and apply Cuticle Oil daily to keep nails hydrated and prevent peeling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Gelous, from product information to application tips.

The Products

Gelous allows you to create DIY, salon quality gel manicures from the comfort of your own home. Our Gel Nail Polish offers benefits that go beyond colour, from lasting shine to added nail strength. Regular nail polish is quick to apply and remove, but doesn’t provide the same durability.

Here’s how they compare:

  • Curing: Gel Nail Polish is cured under a Gel Nail Lamp, while regular nail polish air-dries.
  • Longevity: Gel manicures last around 2–3 weeks without chipping, whereas regular polish typically lasts just a few days.
  • Finish: Gel Polish provides a high-gloss, salon-quality shine that stays glossy for the entire wear, unlike regular polish, which can dull and chip quickly.
  • Strength: Gel Nail Polish adds strength and protection to the natural nail, helping to reduce breakage. Regular polish offers little to no strengthening effect.
  • Removal: Gel manicures require removal using acetone soak-off or an E-File Pen, while regular polish can be wiped away with nail polish remover.

With Gelous, you can create salon-quality gel manicures from the comfort of your own home. Our Gel Nail Polish applies just like regular polish but after curing with our Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp it lasts two weeks or more without fading, peeling or chipping. You don’t have to worry about waiting for your nails to dry or smudging them afterwards—they are hard and perfectly dry once cured with the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp.

Gel Nail Polish contains special ingredients, including photo initiators and monomers, that react to the UV light emitted by the UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp. This chemical reaction, known as curing, transforms the liquid gel into a durable coating in just 60 seconds.
After curing, some layers will feel slightly tacky, such as Base Coats, Builder Gels, and Colours Coats. This tacky surface is called the inhibition layer—a thin, sticky layer that helps the next coat of gel adhere properly. In contrast, our no-wipe Top Coat is designed to cure without leaving a sticky residue, giving your manicure a smooth, high-shine finish that’s dry to the touch.

To find out how to apply Gel Nail Polish, check out our Application Guide, and to learn how to remove it safely, read our Removal Guide.

When it comes to curing Gel Nail Polish, wattage isn’t everything. The most important factor is the wavelength your Gel Nail Lamp emits—not how many watts it uses.

While high wattage may sound impressive, it doesn’t necessarily mean better results. In fact, many brands exaggerate their wattage for marketing purposes. Anything above 24W can produce excess heat that may cause discomfort or damage to the skin.

What truly matters is that your lamp emits the correct curing wavelengths. For Gel Nail Polish to cure safely and effectively, it needs to be exposed to very specific UV light. That’s why the Gelous Gel Nail Lamp uses dual-wavelength technology (365+405nm)—two precise peaks that ensure your Gel Nail Polish cures evenly, thoroughly, and without heat spikes or under-cured patches.

Our Gel Nail Polish is formulated to cure perfectly under these wavelengths, working in complete harmony with the Gelous Gel Nail Lamp to deliver professional results while protecting your nails and skin.

Yes—gel polish and nail lamps aren’t one-size-fits-all. Using Gelous Base Coat, Colour Coat, Top Coat, and the Gelous Gel Nail Lamp together is essential for a long-lasting, salon-quality manicure. Our Gel Nail Polish is formulated to cure perfectly under the Gelous Gel Nail Lamp, which emits the precise 365+405nm wavelengths it’s designed for. While this dual-wavelength setup is standard, mixing brands, such as using another lamp with our Gel Polish or vice versa, can result in under-curing, poor wear, or even damage to your nails and skin.

Equally important is following the proper application process. Skipping steps like Base Coat or Top Coat, or attempting to air-dry Gel Polish, won’t just shorten your manicure’s wear time, it can also harm your natural nails.

Gelous Gel Nail Polish will last 18-24 months when stored correctly—read the 'Product Care' section on the product page for storage tips.

Each 10ml bottle provides roughly 66 manicures with one coat per manicure, 33 with two coats, or 22 with three coats, averaging about 40 manicures per bottle.

Whether a lamp is labelled UV, LED, or UV/LED, all Gel Nail Lamps emit UV light to cure el Nail Polish. This UV light triggers the chemical reaction that hardens Gelous Gel Nail Polish into a long-lasting, glossy finish.

Old vs. New Technology

Traditional UV lamps used UV bulbs that had to be replaced every six months and took around two minutes to cure each layer of Gel Polish. In contrast, modern UV/LED Lamps, such as the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp, use LED bulbs that operate within the UV spectrum, providing quicker, more efficient curing. These LED bulbs have a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours and cure Gelous Gel Nail Polish in just 60 seconds.

Efficiency and Safety

LED bulbs are safer and faster than traditional UV bulbs. They emit less UV radiation and because of their efficiency, they significantly reduce exposure time.

Why don’t all brands market their lamps as UV/LED Lamps?

Some brands omit ‘UV’ from their Gel Nail Lamp names to avoid negative connotations. However, we want our customers to be fully informed about the products they are purchasing. That’s why we clearly market our lamps as UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps.

What sort of UV rays are emitted from Gel Nail Lamps?

Gel Nail Lamps predominantly emit Ultraviolet-A (UVA) rays. UVA is considered safer for humans than Ultraviolet-B (UVB). These minimal UV rays make the use of modern Gel Nail Lamps safe.

Rubber Base Coat is flexible and ideal for thin or bendy nails, helping prevent lifting and smooth imperfections. Builder Gel is strong and rigid, perfect for adding structure, supporting length, and preventing breakage. Read our full guide to find the right option for you.

Safety

When applied and removed correctly, Gel Nail Polish won’t damage your natural nails. To keep nails healthy, avoid painting Gel Polish on your skin and resist picking at your polish, as this can peel away layers of your natural nail.

To ensure safe, thorough curing, always use the complete Gelous system: Gelous Base Coat, Gelous Colour Coat, and Gelous Top Coat, each cured with the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp.

For best results, follow our Application Guide and Removal Guide, and use our Builder Gel and Nail Care products for added strength and protection.

Stop using Gel Nail Polish immediately if you experience irritation. This can be caused by damaged nails, Gel Polish touching the skin, applying overly thick layers that under-cure, not curing for the full 60 seconds, or an allergy to certain ingredients.

If you experience mild sensitivity but your nails are otherwise healthy, try using the 99 Second Low Heat Mode on your Gel Nail Lamp instead of the regular 60 Second setting. This slower cure can reduce heat spikes and discomfort.

If your nails show signs of damage, over-filing, or frequent breakage, it’s important to take steps to restore their strength and resilience. While nails cannot repair themselves like skin, you can support healthy regrowth and protect the natural nail as it grows out.

  1. Take a Break from Gel Polish: Give your nails time to recover by stopping gel manicures until the damage has grown out. This allows the nail plate to regenerate naturally and prevents further thinning.
  2. Keep Nails Short and Protected: Trim nails regularly to prevent weak or peeling edges from catching and tearing. Filing into a soft, rounded shape also reduces stress on fragile areas.
  3. Moisturise Daily: Apply Cuticle Oil and hand cream every day to keep nails and surrounding skin nourished. Well-hydrated nails are more flexible and less prone to splitting.
  4. Avoid Aggressive Filing or Buffing: Resist the urge to smooth damaged surfaces with lots of buffing, as this thins the nail plate further. Instead, let ridges or white spots grow out naturally.
  5. Protect from Everyday Damage: Wear gloves when doing household chores, cleaning, or gardening to protect nails from harsh chemicals and physical stress.
  6. Be Patient: Nails grow slowly at around 3mm per month, so it may take several months for completely new, healthy nails to grow in. Consistency with care, and proper prep techniques will make the biggest difference over time.
  7. Add support with Rubber Base Coat or Builder Gel: Once your nails are healthy enough for polish, you can add support with Rubber Base Coat or Builder Gel. For weak nails, begin with Rubber Base. Its flexible formula gently supports the natural nail and helps prevent lifting while allowing healthy growth. Think of it as a soft foundation while your nails recover. Once your nails have regained strength and thickness, transition to thin layers of Builder Gel for added reinforcement and durability.

Yes they are. Sunburn or skin damage would only occur after around 75 minutes of continuous exposure to your Gel Nail Lamp—far longer than the recommended use per manicure.

All Gel Nail Lamps—whether UV/LED, LED, or UV—emit Ultraviolet-A (UVA) light to cure gel polish. Our UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp use advanced LED bulbs that produce this UVA light in a safer, more efficient way than traditional UV bulbs. They last up to 50,000 hours and cure each coat in just 60 seconds.

If you’d like extra protection, apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before use—just as you would before heading outdoors.

While Gelous Gel Nail Polish is 10-free and formulated to high safety and quality standards, a small number of people may develop an allergic reaction to certain ingredients—most commonly Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate (HEMA).

HEMA is one of the smallest monomers used in gel nail chemistry, which allows it to bond more effectively to the natural nail than many alternatives. This helps prevent lifting and peeling while still enabling Gel Polish to be applied in thin, smooth layers that cure evenly under a Gel Nail Lamp.

When applied correctly, HEMA is safe for most users. However, repeated exposure to uncured Gel Polish can sometimes lead to allergic reactions, for example, if Gel Nail Polish touches the skin, coats are applied too thickly, or curing is incomplete. This may not cause immediate problems, but over time, the body can become sensitised, increasing the risk of developing an allergy.

How to Prevent Reactions:

What to Look For:

  • Redness, swelling, itching, or blistering around the nails or cuticles.
  • Rashes or irritation on the hands or fingers.

If you suspect an allergic reaction, stop using gel products immediately and allow the skin and nails to recover. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

We generally advise against giving children a gel manicure for several reasons:

  • Children’s nails tend to be thinner and more flexible, which provides a poor foundation for Gel Nail Polish. Combined with the active lifestyles of children, this often results in premature chipping and lifting.
  • A child may also pick or peel at loose edges rather than following our proper removal process, which can damage the already thin nail plate.
  • Additionally, younger skin is much more sensitive than adult skin. Extra care must be taken to avoid getting Gel Nail Polish on the skin, as this could trigger allergic reactions.

While the ingredients in Gelous Gel Nail Polish are safe for pregnant women, it’s important to understand that all gel polish can cause reactions if it comes into contact with your skin. Because skin is often more sensitive during pregnancy, the risk of irritation can be slightly higher.

To help reduce any risks and protect your nails during pregnancy:

  • Always take care to avoid getting Gel Nail Polish on your skin.
  • Ensure nail tools are new or sterilised to reduce any chance of irritation or infection.
  • Always work in a well-ventilated area during application and removal.
  • Wear Gelous Anti-UV Gloves or apply sunblock to the skin around your nails before curing under your UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp.
  • During removal, use our high-quality Nail Polish Remover for the shortest possible time, and begin checking after 10 minutes to see if the Gel Nail Polish can be removed easily.
  • For a faster removal alternative, consider our E-File Pen, which allows you to remove Gel Nail Polish efficiently without prolonged soaking.

If you choose to use Gelous Gel Nail Polish during pregnancy, following these steps will help ensure a safe, comfortable, and long-lasting gel manicure.

Usage

To keep your Gelous manicure at its best for longer, follow these simple aftercare steps:

  1. Wear Gloves for Household Tasks: Protect your nails from harsh soaps and chemicals by wearing gloves when washing dishes, cleaning, or gardening. These can weaken your manicure and lead to peeling or chipping.
  2. Avoid Using Your Nails as Tools: Don’t use your nails to open cans, scratch off labels, or perform any tasks that put pressure on the tips. This can cause the polish to lift or the nail to break.
  3. Apply Cuticle Oil Daily: Keep your nails and surrounding skin nourished by applying Cuticle Oil every day. This helps promote healthy nail growth, strengthens your nails, and maintains a glossy finish.
  4. Use a Nourishing Hand Cream: Follow up your Cuticle Oil with a good-quality hand cream to lock in moisture.
  5. Avoid Hot Water and Steam: Hot baths, saunas, and prolonged hot water exposure, especially within the first 24–48 hours, can soften Gel Nail Polish and lead to lifting.
  6. File Minor Chips Promptly: If a small chip occurs, gently file it smooth with the fine side of your Nail File. This can help prevent it from chipping further.
  7. Never Peel Off Gel Polish: Peeling off your Gel Polish can damage the natural nail by pulling away layers of the nail plate along with the product. This weakens the nails, making them thin, brittle, and more prone to breakage or splitting. Always remove your gel manicure using the correct method outlined in our removal instructions.

Take care to protect your manicure in day-to-day life. Small, mindful habits make a big difference in how long your gel manicure lasts and how healthy your nails stay.

If you’ve chipped one nail, you don’t need to redo your entire manicure. Follow these quick and easy steps to fix it:

  1. Using the 180 grit side of your Nail File, gently buff away the shiny Top Coat from the chipped area, and smooth the edges.
  2. Wipe away any dust with a Lint Free Wipe moistened with Gel Nail Polish Remover, or use a Pure Acetone Wipe.
  3. Apply a thin layer of Base Coat over the exposed area and the sides of the chip, then cure for 60 seconds.
  4. Apply your Colour Coat in the same way, cure for 60 seconds, and repeat if needed for full coverage.
  5. Finish with Gelous Top Coat in the same way, and cure for 60 seconds to seal it in.
    Your fix might not be as flawless as your other nails, but it will blend in well and extend the life of your manicure.

Proper storage is essential to keep your UV-cured nail products in good condition and ensure they perform at their best.

Where to Store

  • Store your products in a cool, dry, and climate-controlled area, away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them near windows or in rooms with strong natural light. Instead, choose a dark space like a drawer, box, or cupboard.
  • Keep them out of bathrooms, where frequent temperature and humidity changes from showers, heaters, and hairdryers can shorten their lifespan.
  • Always store bottles upright to prevent leaks and ingredient separation, which can make the product thick, uneven, or difficult to apply.

During Use

  • When using UV-cured products, don’t work in direct sunlight or too close to your Gel Nail Lamp while it's turned on. These products are sensitive to UV light, and even small amounts of exposure can start the curing process prematurely.

After Use

  • Wipe the neck and rim of each bottle after use using a Lint Free Wipe.
  • For stubborn product around the neck and rim, dampen the wipe with Nail Polish Remover.
  • Always screw lids on tightly after use to keep contents airtight and prevent drying.
    Taking these small steps will help extend the life of your gel products and keep your manicures looking their best.

Safe Use Of UV-Cured Products

  • Avoid contact with skin. If contact occurs, wipe off immediately.
  • Use only in well-ventilated areas.
  • Keep out of eyes, and do not inhale or ingest.
  • Use with the Gelous Gel Nail Lamp.
  • Follow application and removal instructions carefully.

Product Issues

If you are a new user of Gel Nail Polish, please don’t be disheartened if your first few manicures don’t last as long as expected. There are many tips and tricks to applying Gel Nail Polish that make the difference between a long-lasting application and an application that doesn’t last long enough (i.e. chips easily or peels). Often, new users of Gel Nail Polish make small mistakes during the application process that cause premature chipping or peeling. Once you've mastered your Gel Polish application, you'll enjoy flawless, long-lasting manicures time and time again. Practice really does make perfect!

Tips and Tricks

  • Read our Application Guide and watch our YouTube tutorials.
  • Always use Gelous Base Coat, Colour Coat, Top Coat, and Gel Nail Lamp together. Our Gel Nail Polish and UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp are specially formulated to be fully compatible, with the lamp emitting at 365+405nm to ensure a safe and effective cure. While this dual-wavelength setup is common, we strongly advise against mixing brands—such as using other polishes with our lamp or vice versa—as they may not be properly compatible. Incompatibility can result in under-curing, which may lead to poor wear or even cause damage to your nails or skin.
  • Ensure you address weak nails. If your nails are naturally weak or bend easily, Gel Nail Polish may not hold properly and can crack or lift. Start by applying a layer of Rubber Base Coat to add flexibility and help the Gel Polish adhere. If additional strength is needed, apply one or two thin coats of Builder Gel. As your nails grow longer, you can also build an apex with Builder Gel to improve structure and enhance durability.
  • Nail prep is very important and will directly influence the longevity of your mani or pedi. Without it, your Gel Polish may not adhere properly, leading to premature lifting or chipping. Apply Cuticle Remover to help loosen any overgrown cuticle and the eponychium—the small strip of skin that can sit on the nail near the base. Gently push it back with a Cuticle Pusher, or Orangewood Cuticle Stick. Trim your nails, then take your time to gently buff the nail surface using the fine side of the Nail File, removing any shine. 
  • Make sure to clean your nails thoroughly after buffing, as any residual buffing dust, oil or other contaminants will reduce adhesion of the gel and affect the longevity. Brush away buffing dust with the Dust Brush, then clean your nails by applying Gel Nail Polish Remover to a Lint Free Wipe, or using a Pure Acetone Wipe to thoroughly clean the surface of your nails. Pay attention to the area under your nails and around the cuticles. This removes dust and oils while dehydrating the nail bed, giving the Base Coat a clean surface to adhere to.
  • Apply pH Bond to dehydrate the nail plate, followed by a thin layer of Nail Primer to ensure maximum adhesion.
  • Don’t apply your coats of Gel Nail Polish too thick and make sure they are an even thickness. Pay attention to the cuticles and the sides, as this is where Gel Polish can get thicker if you have too much Gel Nail Polish on the brush. To achieve a thin application, remove excess Gel Nail Polish from the brush by circling it around the inside of the bottle neck, pressing it off.
  • Cap every coat of Gel Nail Polish by running the brush horizontally over the free edge of your nail. View capping diagram here. If you have shorter nails, start each coat by using a Nail Art Brush or the tip of your bottle brush to cap the free edge.
  • When applying, start in the middle of the nail then ‘push’ the Gel Nail Polish gently towards the cuticle without it touching. It is important to leave a thin gap between the edge of the Gel Nail Polish and your cuticle when applying. If the Gel Nail Polish is applied to the cuticle, it can separate and lift as your nail plate grows. Aim to avoid getting any Gel Nail Polish on your skin or cuticle, however if you do, remove it with an Nail Polish Remover Pen, Orangewood Cuticle Stick, Nail Art Brush or Silicone Tool before curing. 
  • In terms of aftercare, avoid washing dishes or using cleaning products without gloves, use Cuticle Oil regularly to help your nails looking fresh for longer. If you get a snag, file this down so it does not catch and cause further damage.

Gel Nail Polish colours may appear differently on your screen than in person. While we strive to present colours as accurately as possible, exact replication on different digital displays is not possible. Variations occur due to differences in screen settings, lighting conditions, backgrounds, and skin tones.

Yes—your Base Coat and Colour Coat should remain a little sticky after curing. This tacky layer helps the next coat adhere properly. As long as you’re applying thin, even layers and curing for the full 60 seconds, both coats will be fully cured.

Your Top Coat, however should cure to a smooth, hard finish after 60 seconds under the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp, leaving no stickiness behind.

It’s normal to feel some warmth during curing—this is caused by the chemical reaction as the Gel Nail Polish changes from liquid to solid.

If you have sensitive nails, the Gelous Gel Nail Lamp includes a Low Heat Mode. Press the 99S Low Heat Mode button to cure at 12W for 50 seconds, then 24W for 49 seconds, for a gentler curing process.

To minimise heat spikes:

  • Apply Gel Nail Polish in thin, even coats.
  • Avoid getting Gel Nail Polish on your skin.
  • Only use Gelous brand products for compatibility.
  • Make sure your nail plate is healthy—avoid over-buffing, harsh chemicals without gloves, frequent removal, or incorrect removal.
  • Take a break from Gel Nail Polish if your nails are looking or feeling unhealthy.

This usually occurs when your Gel Nail Polish is stored incorrectly, the rim/neck is not wiped after use, it is used in the sunlight, or it is used too close to your UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp when it was turned on.

To fix this:

  1. Give the brush a gentle clean with rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. Do not use anything acetone based to clean the brush, because this can melt it.
  2. Thoroughly rinse the brush with warm water.
  3. Dry with a Lint Free Wipe before putting it back in the bottle.

To avoid this in future, make sure to follow the storage instructions outlined on the individual product page.

Gel Nail Polish is naturally thicker than regular nail polish—especially formulas like Glitter Gel Nail Polish, Builder Gel and Rubber Base Coat.

To make your Gel Polish easier to manage:

  • Turn the closed bottle upside down and roll it between your hands (don't shake). The heat from your hands will help to warm and thin out the Gel Nail Polish
  • When applying your Gel Nail Polish, wipe the brush against the neck of the bottle to remove excess Gel Polish.
  • Place the closed Gel Nail Polish bottle in a cup of hot water for a minute or so, then roll it between your hands. Be careful—the bottle may be hot.
  • Ensure you are following the storage instructions outlined on the individual product page.

Placing an Order

Yes. You can place an order as a guest with no obligation to create an account. We do recommend that you create an account, as this allows you to check your order history, save your payment details, save your address details, save your wishlist and save your shopping basket. 

It’s quick and easy to create an account. Just click here and follow the instructions on-screen.

Scroll to the bottom of the checkout page and click ‘Check out as guest’. You’ll still be able to use your Gelous account, but you’ll have the option to choose a different payment method such as Afterpay, PayPal, Zip, POLi, and more.

This is automatically sent to your email address when you place an order. If you haven’t received your order confirmation within 24 hours, please check your mailbox’s spam or junk folder. If you cannot find it, please get in touch with us at info@gelous.co with your order number. If you don't have your order number, please provide your shipping address, phone number and full name.

If you're in Auckland, you can! If you would like to order for pick-up, please select this in the 'information' step of the checkout process. We will send you an email when your order is ready. If you need your order earlier, please contact us.

Pick-up orders will be processed first thing the following business day and will be ready and waiting for you when you arrive. Please have your order number handy when you come to collect your order. This will start with #GLS followed by a number. 

Once ready, you can pick-up from Gelous, 3A Whetu Place, Rosedale, Auckland, New Zealand.

You can purchase the full Gelous range at our Auckland store, where you’ll find complete displays of all Gel Nail Polish colours, Nail Art Supplies, Tools, and Accessories.

Our Auckland, New Zealand store is located at Gelous, 3A Whetu Place, Rosedale, Auckland, New Zealand with Afterpay, EFTPOS and cash facilities. 

We are open:

  • Mon-Fri: 9:00am-5:00pm
  • Sat-Sun: 9:00am-3:00pm

Spend over a certain amount for free shipping. To qualify for free shipping, your cart total must over the specified amount after any discount codes have been applied and before any shipping fees are applied. 

  • New Zealand: Spend over $100NZD
  • Australia: Spend over $100AUD
  • United States: Spend over $125USD
  • Canada: Spend over $165CAD
  • United Kingdom: Spend over £100
  • Europe: Spend over €115
  • Asia: Spend over $125USD
  • Oceania: Spend over $200NZD

Shipping & Returns

You can view shipping information including processing times, shipping times and pricing here.

You can view returns information here.

Order Alterations & Cancellations

Orders can be altered prior to processing. Please note that once your order has been assigned a tracking number or shipped, we're unable to make any changes. For alterations to be processed, our customer service team must first receive and confirm your request. If your order ships before we can review your email, we won’t be able to make any changes. To ensure faster assistance, please call us during our office hours. Products can be returned for store credit if they meet the guidelines in our Returns Policy

Adding or Swapping Products

Additional costs can be paid via any of our standard payment methods. Orders will not be shipped until any additional payments are received.

Removing Products

If you request to remove products from your order within one hour of it being placed, we are able to offer a full refund. A refund takes 5-10 business days to be processed.

How to Add, Remove or Swap Products

You can email us at info@gelous.co to request to add, remove or swap products in your order. 

Orders can be cancelled prior to shipment. For the quickest response and to avoid disappointment, please contact our customer service team by phone during office hours. Alternatively, you can email us at info@gelous.co with your order number. If you don’t have the order number, please include your shipping address, phone number, and full name. Please be aware there may be a delay in response via email, and we are unable to make any changes once your order has been shipped.

Within 1 hour

If you cancel within one hour of placing your order, you’ll receive a full refund. Refunds typically take 5-10 business days to process.

After 1 hour, before shipment

If you cancel before your order has been assigned a tracking number, we can offer store credit or a refund. Store credit takes 1-3 business days to process and is valid for 3 years. Refunds are processed within 3-7 business days.

If an address is input incorrectly or without appropriate detail, we take no responsibility or liability for the customer not receiving their product. If you contact us before your order is processed we will do our best to update this prior to shipment. 

Changes Before Shipment

For address changes prior to shipment email info@gelous.co.

Changes After Shipment

For address changes after shipment, check your tracking to find out which company your order has been shipped with and contact them directly for the fastest result.

Discount Codes

You can apply your discount code after clicking 'checkout' from your cart.

You cannot use a discount code: 

  • More than once (excluding kit, bundle and sale discount codes). 
  • In conjunction with another discount code (excluding kit or bundle discount codes).
  • On gift cards (you can use a gift card in conjunction with a discount code when purchasing).

Percentage Off Discount Codes

  • If you haven't added your Percentage Off Discount Code at checkout, you can email us at info@gelous.co to receive the value of the discount as store credit.
  • We are unable to offer you store credit after the discount code has expired.

Buy One Get One Free Discount Codes

  • If you haven't added your Buy One Get One Free Discount Code at checkout, you can email us at info@gelous.co to add this.
  • Please include the free item you would like if applicable.
  • We are unable to add Buy One Get One Free Discount Codes after the discount code has expired.
  • If your order has been shipped and you would still like to receive your free item, you will be charged for the shipping.

Join The Gelous It List, our exclusive loyalty program, and enjoy 10% off your first order. You'll also be the first to hear about sales and promotions, and start earning points with every purchase—redeemable for $10, $15, $20, or $30 vouchers.

Plus, take advantage of ongoing savings with our discounted Bundles.

Yes, Gift Cards are a form of payment. Simply enter the Gift Card code in the 'Gift card or discount code' box and press 'Apply'. Then enter the discount code and press 'Apply'.

Sustainability

Each country has different recycling rules. See your local government website for more information:

Helpful links:

Product Packaging

All Gelous products are now packaged in cardboard, a far more sustainable option than plastic packaging. This change helps reduce our environmental footprint and supports a cleaner, greener future for all.

Order Packaging

All orders are protected with eco-friendly Geami WrapPak and FillPak and shipped in cardboard cartons or recycled courier bags. 

Our courier bags are made from 100% recycled post consumer and post industrial plastic waste. Even the removable adhesive backing and the inner bag is made from recycled plastic! After use, these can be recycled where soft plastics are accepted.

Products

Gelous supports the progression of the beauty industry by offering products that are vegan, cruelty free and non-toxic. Our Gel Nail Polish is 10-free which means it is free from common toxic nail polish ingredients including Toluene, DBP, Camphor, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, Xylene, Parabens, Fragrances, Phthalates, animal testing & animal-derived ingredients.

We are certified vegan and cruelty-free by New Zealand Anti-Vivisection Society (NZAVS).

Professional & Wholesale

Professional

As a token of appreciation for our valued professionals, we offer an exclusive discount code that entitles you to 20% off on orders exceeding $300. If you're interested in taking advantage of this professional discount, complete the form here.

Wholesale

We offer wholesale rates dependant on purchase quantity and monthly spend. If you're interested in stocking Gelous Gel Nail Polish products in your retail store, online store or salon, complete the form here.

How-To Guides

Learn everything from Gel Nail Polish application to nail art techniques & product care.

How To Apply Gelous Gel Nail Polish - Colour Coat - photographed in New Zealand
How To Apply Gelous Gel Nail Polish - Colour Coat - photographed in New Zealand

How to Apply Gel Nail Polish

See how to apply Gel Nail Polish at home for long-lasting, salon-quality results.

How to remove your Gel Nail Polish by soaking off with Removal Clips - photographed in New Zealand
How to remove your Gel Nail Polish by soaking off with Removal Clips - photographed in New Zealand

How to Remove Gel Nail Polish

Learn safe Gel Nail Polish removal to keep your nails healthy and in great condition.

Walking on Eggshells Gel Nail Polish and Storage Case - photographed on model in New Zealand
Walking on Eggshells Gel Nail Polish and Storage Case - photographed on model in New Zealand

How to Care For Your Products

Discover how to store your gel manicure products properly to keep them in top condition.

How to apply Gelous Builder Gel (BIAB) to create an apex - photographed on model in New Zealand
How to apply Gelous Builder Gel (BIAB) to create an apex - photographed on model in New Zealand

How To Apply Builder Gel

Follow our guide for smooth application, building structure, and creating a flawless apex.

How to apply Blooming Gel for Tortoiseshell nail art - photographed on model in Australia
How to apply Blooming Gel for Tortoiseshell nail art - photographed on model in Australia

How To Apply Blooming Gel

Easily create marble, tortoiseshell and watercolour nail art with Blooming Gel.

How to apply French tips for a French manicure at home - photographed on model in New Zealand
How to apply French tips for a French manicure at home - photographed on model in New Zealand

How To Paint French Tips

Master crisp, even French tips using the Silicone Nail Stamper and French Nail Tip Guides.

How to fix a broken nail with Fibre Nail Glue - photographed on model in New Zealand
How to fix a broken nail with Fibre Nail Glue - photographed on model in New Zealand

How To Apply Fibre Nail Glue

See how to repair and reinforce nails using Fibre Nail Glue.

How to apply Rhinestones, Gems & Pearls - photographed on model in New Zealand
How to apply Rhinestones, Gems & Pearls - photographed on model in New Zealand

How to Apply Nail Art

Read our guide for flawless application of Chrome Powder, Nail Stickers, Rhinestones and more.