How to Apply Gel Nail Polish
See how to apply Gel Nail Polish at home for long-lasting, salon-quality results.
Expert advice to prep, apply, and maintain your gel manicure for salon-quality results.
Use Gelous Base Coat, Colour Coat, Top Coat, and Gel Nail Lamp for guaranteed compatibility and best results.
Use Gelous Base Coat, Colour Coat, Top Coat, and Gel Nail Lamp for guaranteed compatibility and best results.
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, even layers of polish, curing each for 60 seconds to ensure proper adhesion and durability.
Leave a small gap near cuticles and cap the free edge of every layer to prevent lifting and chipping.
Remove any Gel Nail Polish on your skin before curing to prevent reactions or allergies.
Use Rubber Base Coat or Builder Gel to protect and reinforce weak or flaky nails.
Wear gloves for cleaning and apply Cuticle Oil daily to keep nails hydrated and prevent peeling.
Everything you need to know about Gelous, from product information to application tips.
Gelous Gel Nail Polish is cured under a UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp to create a long-lasting, salon-quality gel manicure at home. Unlike regular nail polish, which air-dries and wears quickly, Gel Polish cures to a hard, glossy finish designed to last for over two weeks.
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.
Gelous Gel Nail Polish works by curing under specific UV/LED wavelengths, transforming liquid gel into a hard, long-lasting coating. Each layer is applied in thin coats and cured under the Gelous Gel Nail Lamp to create a strong, smudge-free gel manicure with a high-shine finish.
Gel Nail Polish hardens during the curing process rather than air-drying. When it is exposed to the 365+405nm wavelengths emitted by the Gelous Gel Nail Lamp, it undergoes a curing process that transforms the liquid gel into a strong, long-lasting coating.
Our Gel Nail Lamp uses 30 dual-wave LEDs designed to last up to 50,000 hours, curing faster and more safely than traditional UV bulbs. Each Gelous formula is developed to cure precisely at these wavelengths, ensuring consistent, effective, and safe results every time.
For step-by-step application and removal instructions, view our complete Application Guide and 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.
A gel manicure requires the use of a Base Coat, Colour Coat and Top Coat, with each layer cured under a UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp. The Gelous system is designed so these products work together to achieve correct curing and consistent wear.
Skipping steps such as the Base Coat or Top Coat, or attempting to cure Gel Polish without a Gel Nail Lamp, can result in poor performance, including lifting, chipping, or incomplete curing, and may increase the risk of nail or skin damage.
The Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp uses 365+405nm dual-wavelength technology, emitting two specific UV wavelengths required to activate the photoinitiators in Gelous Gel Nail Polish. Gelous formulas are developed to cure at these wavelengths to support even, thorough curing. Although 365+405nm is a commonly used curing specification, combining gel polishes and lamps from different brands is not recommended. Mismatched products may lead to incomplete curing, reduced wear, or potential nail damage.
For the best results and optimal safety, the Gelous system is intended to be used as a complete set of compatible products.
Gelous Gel Nail Polish will last 18-24 months when stored correctly. Refer to the 'Product Care' section on the product pages for storage guidelines.
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 Gel Nail Polish. This UV light triggers the chemical reaction that hardens Gel Polish into a long-lasting, glossy finish.
Traditional UV lamps used UV bulbs that that required regular replacement and longer curing times. Modern UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps use LED bulbs that operate within the UV spectrum, allowing for faster and more efficient curing, typically around 60 seconds per layer. These LED bulbs also have a much longer lifespan
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.
Some brands label their lamps as 'LED' only, but these lamps still emit UV light. The term UV/LED simply reflects the technology used and provides clearer information about how the lamp cures Gel Nail Polish.
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.
Gelous Gel Nail Polish won't ruin your nails when applied and removed correctly. It is 10-free, vegan, and cruelty-free, meaning it’s free from 10 harmful chemicals traditionally found in nail products.
To keep nails healthy, avoid applying Gel Nail Polish to the skin or cuticles and resist picking or peeling your Gel Polish, as this can remove layers of the natural nail. For 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 Builder Gel and Nail Care products to support nail strength and protection.
If you experience irritation, sensitivity, or visible nail damage such as thinning, over-filing, or frequent breakage, it’s best to pause gel manicures and allow your nails time to recover. Applying Gel Nail Polish to damaged nails can increase discomfort and delay healthy regrowth.
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:
Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps are safe when used as directed. Sunburn or skin damage would only occur after around 75 minutes of continuous exposure, which is far longer than the recommended use during a gel manicure.
All Gel Nail Lamps emit Ultraviolet-A (UVA) light to cure gel polish. The Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp uses advanced LED bulbs that produce UVA light more efficiently than traditional UV bulbs, curing each coat in 60 seconds and reducing overall exposure time. These LED bulbs have a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours.
For extra protection, sunscreen can be applied to the hands 15–30 minutes before use, just as you would before outdoor sun exposure.
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.
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:
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.
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.
To keep your Gelous manicure at its best for longer, follow these simple aftercare steps:
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.
Proper storage is essential to keep your UV-cured nail products in good condition and ensure they perform at their best.
To make your Gelous gel manicure last longer, focus on thorough nail prep, avoiding Gel Nail Polish on the cuticles or skin, applying thin coats, proper curing under the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp, and good aftercare. Small improvements in prep and technique make the biggest difference to wear time.
If you are new to Gel Nail Polish, don’t be disheartened if your first few manicures don’t last as long as expected. Achieving long-lasting wear often comes down to small details in your prep and application technique. Minor mistakes are common when starting out, but once you refine your process, you’ll enjoy consistently flawless gel manicures. Practice really does make perfect.
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.
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.
A brief heat sensation can occur during curing due to a chemical reaction as the Gel Nail Polish changes from liquid to solid. This reaction releases heat and can feel stronger on thin or damaged nails, or when gel is applied too thickly. Applying thin layers, using compatible products, and selecting the low-heat curing mode can help reduce this sensation.
A hardened brush is usually caused by exposure to light or improper storage, which can partially cure Gel Nail Polish in the bristles.
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.
Yes, you can place an order as a guest without creating 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 email is automatically sent to the email address used at checkout. If you haven’t received your order confirmation within 24 hours, please check your spam or junk folder.
If you still can’t find it, get in touch with us at info@gelous.co with your order number. If you don’t have your order number, please include your full name, shipping address, and phone number so we can help locate your order.
Yes, if you’re in Auckland. To place a click & collect order, select the pick-up option during the 'Information' step at checkout.
Pick-up orders are processed first thing the following business day. You’ll receive an email when your order is ready. If you need your order sooner, please contact us.
Once ready, orders can be collected from Gelous, 3A Whetu Place, Rosedale, Auckland, New Zealand. Please bring your order number (starting with #GLS) when collecting.
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 store is located at Gelous, 3A Whetu Place, Rosedale, Auckland, New Zealand, with Afterpay, EFTPOS, and cash available.
Spend over $100 to receive free shipping across New Zealand or Australia. To qualify, your cart total must be over the threshold after any discount codes are applied and before shipping fees are added.
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.
Additional costs can be paid via any of our standard payment methods. Orders will not be shipped until any additional payments are received.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For address changes prior to shipment email info@gelous.co.
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.
You can apply your discount code after clicking 'checkout' from your cart.
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'.
Each country has different recycling rules. See your local government website for more information:
Helpful links:
Sustainability is an ongoing focus at Gelous, from how our products are packaged to how they’re made.
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.
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.
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).
Yes, we offer 20% off for qualified nail technicians and salons on orders over $300. If you're interested in taking advantage of this professional discount, complete the form here.
Yes, offer wholesale pricing based on purchase quantity and monthly spend. If you’re interested in becoming a Gelous stockist for your retail store, online store, or salon, complete the form here.
TUTORIAL
Learn everything from Gel Nail Polish application to nail art techniques & product care.
See how to apply Gel Nail Polish at home for long-lasting, salon-quality results.
Learn safe Gel Nail Polish removal to keep your nails healthy and in great condition.
Discover how to store your gel manicure products properly to keep them in top condition.
Follow our guide for smooth application, building structure, and creating a flawless apex.
Easily create marble, tortoiseshell and watercolour nail art with Blooming Gel.
Master crisp, even French tips using the Silicone Nail Stamper and French Nail Tip Guides.
Read our guide for flawless application of Chrome Powder, Nail Stickers, Rhinestones and more.
Vegan
Cruelty-Free
10-Free
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