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THE GELOUS IT LIST

How to Apply Gel Nail Polish

Achieve a flawless, long-lasting gel manicure at home with our step-by-step prep and application guide. Prep with care, apply with precision, and enjoy gel nails that stay flawless for weeks.

  1. Set up on a clean, flat surface out of direct sunlight. Lay out your products, and remove the blue film from your Gel Nail Lamp’s base plate.
  2. Apply a small amount of Cuticle Remover to each cuticle and allow it to quickly soften overgrown skin.
  3. Gently push back any cuticles that have grown over the nail bed using an Orangewood Cuticle Stick or Cuticle Pusher. This provides a clean, even surface for the Gel Nail Polish to stick to, while giving your nails a longer and neater appearance. If you haven't used Cuticle Remover you can also use the curve of your Nail File to push cuticles back.
    Alternatively, if using an     E-File Pen, you can use the Cuticle Ceramic Drill Bit or Cuticle Diamond Drill Bit to gently push back and remove cuticles. Work on level 1 with light pressure, keeping the bit moving in a single direction to avoid damage.
  4. If needed, use Cuticle Nippers to carefully remove loose or dead skin around the cuticle area. Do not cut living skin.
    If using an E-File Pen, follow with the Cuticle Polisher Diamond Drill Bit to gently smooth and exfoliate the area. Keep the speed at level 1, apply light pressure, and move the bit in a single direction to prevent damage.
  5. If your nails need shortening, trim with Nail Clippers.
  6. Using the fine 180 grit side of your Nail File, file your nails to the desired shape, making sure the edges of each nail are smooth.
  7. Using the fine 180 grit side of your Nail File, gently buff the entire surface of each nail. Make sure the whole nail appears dull from the buffing, paying particular attention to the sides of your nails and around the cuticles. This is where lifting may occur if not buffed correctly.
    If using an E-File Pen, you can alternatively use a 240 Grit Sanding Drill Bit. Use light pressure, keep the bit moving, and work in a single direction to avoid heat buildup or thinning of the nail.
  8. Brush buffing dust away with the Dust Brush.
  9. Wash your hands and dry them thoroughly.
  10. Put on the Anti-UV Gloves to shield your hands from UV exposure. Alternatively, apply sunscreen to your hands 15–30 minutes before completing the next steps. Avoid getting sunscreen on your nails and wipe off if you do.
  11. Use a Lint Free Wipe moistened with Gel Nail Polish Remover, or a Pure Acetone Wipe, to thoroughly clean your nails, including under the nails and around the cuticles. This removes dust and oils while dehydrating the nail.
  12. If using pH Bond, apply a thin coat to your nails and air-dry for 60 seconds.
  13. Do the same with Nail Primer. Apply a thin coat to your nails and air-dry for 60 seconds.
  14. Make sure your Gel Nail Lamp is on a flat, stable surface and the blue protective film is removed. Plug the adaptor into a switched-off power point, then turn the power on.
  15. Apply a thin coat of Base Coat to your nails and cap the free edge. Leave a small gap between the Gel Nail Polish and your cuticles to avoid getting Gel Polish on your skin. If you do, remove it with the Nail Polish Remover Pen, an Orangewood Cuticle Stick, Silicone Tool, or a Nail Art Brush before curing.
  16. Place your hand flat inside the Gel Nail Lamp and press the 60S button to start curing. All layers apart from your Top Coat will remain slightly sticky after curing to help the next layer adhere.
  17. If you’re using Builder Gel, apply 1–2 thin coats and cap the free edge. After each coat, cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp. For longer nails or added strength, you may wish to build an apex, which supports the nail structure and reduces breakages. In this case, use the low heat mode to cure for 99 seconds. Scroll down and read “How to Apply Builder Gel With an Apex” for guidance.
  18. Apply 1–3 thin coats of Colour Coat and cap the free edge. After each coat, cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  19. Apply a thin coat of Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp. Your Gel Nail Polish should be hard and dry to the touch after the final cure.
  20. Apply Cuticle Oil around your nails and rub into your skin to nourish.
  21. Your manicure or pedicure is now complete, leaving you with a salon-quality, durable set of gel nails that will last over two weeks.
  1. Set up on a clean, flat surface out of direct sunlight. Lay out your products, and remove the blue film from your Gel Nail Lamp’s base plate.
  2. Apply a small amount of Cuticle Remover to each cuticle and allow it to quickly soften overgrown skin.
  3. Gently push back any cuticles that have grown over the nail bed using an Orangewood Cuticle Stick or Cuticle Pusher. This provides a clean, even surface for the Gel Nail Polish to stick to, while giving your nails a longer and neater appearance. If you haven't used Cuticle Remover you can also use the curve of your Nail File to push cuticles back.
    Alternatively, if using an     E-File Pen, you can use the Cuticle Ceramic Drill Bit or Cuticle Diamond Drill Bit to gently push back and remove cuticles. Work on level 1 with light pressure, keeping the bit moving in a single direction to avoid damage.
  4. If needed, use Cuticle Nippers to carefully remove loose or dead skin around the cuticle area. Do not cut living skin.
    If using an E-File Pen, follow with the Cuticle Polisher Diamond Drill Bit to gently smooth and exfoliate the area. Keep the speed at level 1, apply light pressure, and move the bit in a single direction to prevent damage.
  5. If your nails need shortening, trim with Nail Clippers.
  6. Using the fine 180 grit side of your Nail File, file your nails to the desired shape, making sure the edges of each nail are smooth.
  7. Using the fine 180 grit side of your Nail File, gently buff the entire surface of each nail. Make sure the whole nail appears dull from the buffing, paying particular attention to the sides of your nails and around the cuticles. This is where lifting may occur if not buffed correctly.
    If using an E-File Pen, you can alternatively use a 240 Grit Sanding Drill Bit. Use light pressure, keep the bit moving, and work in a single direction to avoid heat buildup or thinning of the nail.
  8. Brush buffing dust away with the Dust Brush.
  9. Wash your hands and dry them thoroughly.
  10. Put on the Anti-UV Gloves to shield your hands from UV exposure. Alternatively, apply sunscreen to your hands 15–30 minutes before completing the next steps. Avoid getting sunscreen on your nails and wipe off if you do.
  11. Use a Lint Free Wipe moistened with Gel Nail Polish Remover, or a Pure Acetone Wipe, to thoroughly clean your nails, including under the nails and around the cuticles. This removes dust and oils while dehydrating the nail.
  12. If using pH Bond, apply a thin coat to your nails and air-dry for 60 seconds.
  13. Do the same with Nail Primer. Apply a thin coat to your nails and air-dry for 60 seconds.
  14. Make sure your Gel Nail Lamp is on a flat, stable surface and the blue protective film is removed. Plug the adaptor into a switched-off power point, then turn the power on.
  15. Apply a thin coat of Base Coat to your nails and cap the free edge. Leave a small gap between the Gel Nail Polish and your cuticles to avoid getting Gel Polish on your skin. If you do, remove it with the Nail Polish Remover Pen, an Orangewood Cuticle Stick, Silicone Tool, or a Nail Art Brush before curing.
  16. Place your hand flat inside the Gel Nail Lamp and press the 60S button to start curing. All layers apart from your Top Coat will remain slightly sticky after curing to help the next layer adhere.
  17. If you’re using Builder Gel, apply 1–2 thin coats and cap the free edge. After each coat, cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp. For longer nails or added strength, you may wish to build an apex, which supports the nail structure and reduces breakages. In this case, use the low heat mode to cure for 99 seconds. Scroll down and read “How to Apply Builder Gel With an Apex” for guidance.
  18. Apply 1–3 thin coats of Colour Coat and cap the free edge. After each coat, cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  19. Apply a thin coat of Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp. Your Gel Nail Polish should be hard and dry to the touch after the final cure.
  20. Apply Cuticle Oil around your nails and rub into your skin to nourish.
  21. Your manicure or pedicure is now complete, leaving you with a salon-quality, durable set of gel nails that will last over two weeks.
  1. After applying and curing your Base Coat and completing all previous prep steps, apply a thin slip layer of Builder Gel, cap the free edge, and leave it uncured. This helps guide the next layer into place.
  2. Apply a small bead of Builder Gel near the base of your nail and slowly push it towards your cuticle, ensuring it does not touch the skin.
  3. Guide the Builder Gel from side to side, using less product with each pass and pulling slightly toward the free edge. This helps create a smooth, even curve with the bulk concentrated in the centre.
  4. Using a Thin Nail Art Brush, lightly pull some Builder Gel up the nail to help even out the application.
  5. Ensure there’s an apex at the centre of your nail. If needed, tip your finger upside down briefly to help the Builder Gel self-level into a natural shape.
  6. If the tip looks bulky, pull some Builder Gel back toward the centre.
  7. To prevent the Builder Gel from moving while you paint your other nails, we recommend flash curing each nail for 10 seconds with your Gel Nail Lamp after completing it.
  8. Once all nails on your hand are complete, press the 99S low heat mode button on your Gel Nail Lamp to cure at 12W for 50 seconds, then 24W for 49 seconds.
  9. If your Builder Gel needs some refinements, apply Gel Nail Polish Remover to a Lint Free Wipe, or use a Pure Acetone Wipe, to thoroughly clean your nails.
  10. Use the 180 grit side of the Nail File or the Sanding Drill Bit to refine any uneven areas or bulk. Avoid excessive filing to maintain strength; only refine the shape and smooth out any roughness.
  11. Gently refine the shape of your nails using the same side of the Nail File. Always file in one direction to prevent lifting or fraying at the edges.
  12. Dust your nails with the Dust Brush, then use a Lint Free Wipe soaked with Gel Nail Polish Remover, or a Pure Acetone Wipe, to thoroughly clean your nails.
  13. Apply your Colour Coat and Top Coat as usual.

Watch Builder Gel Tutorial

  1. After prepping your nails, apply and cure your Base Coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. Apply a thin coat of Velvet Gel Nail Polish, cap the free edge, and leave uncured.
  3. Hold the end of the Strong Velvet Magnet 3–5mm above your nail without touching the Velvet Gel Polish. Hover it near the edges to pull shimmer outward.
  4. Move the Magnet towards the centre to push shimmer away and create a cat-eye effect.
  5. Slowly pull the Magnet away to bring shimmer back if needed.
  6. If you’re unhappy with the result, apply another thin coat on top and try again.
  7. Once you're happy with the effect, cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  8. Apply a thin coat of Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.

Watch Velvet Gel Polish Tutorials

  1. After prepping your nails, apply and cure your Base Coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. If you’d like a coloured layer beneath your nail art, apply 1–3 thin coats of your chosen Colour Coat, curing each coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  3. Apply a thin, even coat of Blooming Gel over the entire nail, and leave uncured.
  4. Dip your Dotting Tool or Nail Art Brush into your chosen Colour Coat and paint your design on the uncured Blooming Gel.
  5. Let the design bloom for 5–20 seconds, depending on your desired level of diffusion.
  6. Once you’re happy, cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  7. Apply a thin coat of Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.

Watch Blooming Gel Nail Art Tutorials

  1. After prepping your nails, apply and cure your Base Coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. A semi-opaque Colour Coat or Builder Gel works well underneath a French tip. Apply 1–3 thin coats if desired, curing after each coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  3. Wipe away the sticky inhibition layer using a Lint Free Wipe moistened with Gel Nail Polish Remover, or a Pure Acetone Wipe.
  4. Paint your French tip shade in a smooth, even strip across the centre of the Silicone Nail Stamper.
  5. At a 45-degree angle, press the tip of your nail into the Stamper just below the strip of Gel Nail Polish.
  6. Roll the Silicone Nail Stamper side to side to coat the entire tip, taking care not to go past the natural tip line.
  7. Slowly pull the Stamper away from the nail, letting the Gel Nail Polish disperse evenly over the tip.
  8. Use a Nail Art Brush or Nail Polish Remover Pen to clean up the smile line or any Gel Polish that may have transferred onto your skin.
  9. If needed, you can use a Thin Nail Art Brush dipped in the same colour to neaten the edges of your French tip.
  10. Apply a thin coat of Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.

Watch French Manicure Gel Nail Art Tutorials

  1. After prepping your nails, apply and cure your Base Coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. A semi-opaque Colour Coat or Builder Gel works well underneath a French tip. Apply 1–3 thin coats if desired, curing after each coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  3. Wipe away the sticky inhibition layer using a Lint Free Wipe moistened with Gel Nail Polish Remover, or a Pure Acetone Wipe.
  4. Peel a French Tip Nail Guide from the sheet.
  5. Place the Guide just under the tip of your nail and press down firmly, ensuring the edges are well sealed to prevent Gel Polish from bleeding underneath.
  6. With excess Gel Nail Polish wiped from your brush, apply a thin coat of your chosen French tip colour above the Guide. For best results, sweep the brush across the tip in one smooth motion.
  7. Carefully remove the Guide to reveal a crisp line.
  8. If needed, neaten the smile line with a Nail Art Brush or Nail Polish Remover Pen.
  9. Apply a thin coat of Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.

Watch French Manicure Gel Nail Art Tutorials

  1. After prepping your nails, apply and cure your Base Coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. If you’d like a coloured layer beneath your Chrome Powder, apply 1–3 thin coats of your chosen Colour Coat, curing each coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  3. Apply Top Coat and cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  4. Wipe your nails using a Pure Acetone Wipe.
  5. Dip the Chrome Powder Application Sponge into the Chrome Powder jar, only picking up a small amount of Chrome Powder.
  6. Using light pressure, gently rub the Chrome Powder onto the nail in small circular motions, starting from the centre and working outward. Continue buffing until the coverage is even and the finish is smooth. Add more Chrome Powder if needed, but avoid overloading the Application Sponge, as this can cause streaking or clumping. Alternatively, you can rub your Chrome Powder on using a Silicone Tool or a clean finger.
  7. Lightly file the free edge at a 45-degree angle, targeting only the underside of the free edge. This helps the Top Coat grip better in an area that’s harder to seal and more prone to chipping with Chrome Powder.
  8. Gently sweep away excess Chrome Powder from both your nails and surrounding skin using the Dust Brush.
  9. To prevent Chrome Powder from contaminating your Top Coat, transfer a small amount from the bottle onto a Nail Art Palette, then use a Replacement Nail Polish Brush or Nail Art Brush to apply.
  10. Apply a 2 thin coats of Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure each coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.

Watch Chrome Powder Tutorials

  1. After prepping your nails, apply a thin coat of Fibre Gel Nail Repair Glue over the tear, extending slightly beyond it to reinforce the surrounding nail. Cover the side of the nail if possible, but avoid contact with your skin. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. Apply a second thin coat over the tear, including the side of the nail if possible. Multiple thin coats create a stronger, smoother repair than a single thick layer. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  3. For particularly bad tears, apply a third thin coat for extra reinforcement and cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  4. Apply Base Coat, Builder Gel (if using), Colour Coat and Top Coat as usual. Using Rubber Base and Builder Gel on a torn nail helps to seal the repair and even out the surface for a smooth finish.

Watch Fibre Nail Repair Glue Tutorial

  1. After prepping your nails, apply and cure your Base Coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. If you’d like a coloured layer beneath your nail art, apply 1–3 thin coats of your chosen Colour Coat, curing each coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  3. Using your Dotting Tool, apply a small dot of Nail Art Glue where you wish to place a Rhinestone, Pearl or Charm, and leave uncured.
  4. Without cleaning your Dotting Tool, press it onto a Rhinestone, Pearl or Charm to pick it up, then place it onto the glued spot.
  5. Cure for 30 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  6. Apply Top Coat, brushing carefully around the Rhinestone, Pearl or Charm, and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.

Watch Rhinestones, Pearls & Gems Nail Art Tutorials

  1. After prepping your nails, apply and cure your Base Coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. If you’d like a coloured layer beneath your nail art, apply 1–3 thin coats of your chosen Colour Coat, curing each coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  3. Wipe away the sticky inhibition layer using a Lint Free Wipe moistened with Gel Nail Polish Remover, or a Pure Acetone Wipe.
  4. Using Nail Art Tweezers, carefully peel off your chosen Nail Sticker. Take your time, stickers are thin and can tear easily. Avoid touching the adhesive side with your fingers to preserve stickiness.
  5. Place the Nail Sticker on your nail using the Nail Art Tweezers.
  6. Press down with a Silicone Tool to ensure the Nail Sticker is fully adhered and free of air bubbles.
  7. Apply a thin coat of Rubber Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.

Watch Nail Stickers Tutorials

  1. After prepping your nails, apply and cure your Base Coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  2. If you’d like a coloured layer beneath your nail art, apply 1–3 thin coats of your chosen Colour Coat, curing each coat for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.
  3. Wipe away the sticky inhibition layer using a Lint Free Wipe moistened with Gel Nail Polish Remover, or a Pure Acetone Wipe.
  4. Using a Silicone Tool or Nail Art Brush, pick up and dab small pieces of Metallic Leaf onto the nail. You can tear it into smaller fragments or layer pieces to create your desired look.
  5. Gently press with your chosen tool to smooth edges and prevent lifting.
  6. If any Metallic Leaf extends past the nail or has made the edge look uneven, lightly file the free edge at a 45-degree angle, targeting only the underside.
  7. Apply a thin coat of Rubber Top Coat and cap the free edge. Cure for 60 seconds under the Gel Nail Lamp.

Watch Metallic Leaf Tutorials

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.

Tutorials You Can’t Miss

From common beginner mistakes to shaping tips, these tutorials cover the essentials and more.

Pointing at a gel nails free edge - photographed in New Zealand on model
Pointing at a gel nails free edge - photographed in New Zealand on model

Six Common Mistakes Beginners Make

We’ll walk you through the most common application mistakes that can lead to lifting, chipping, and premature wear. Follow along and find out how to make your DIY gel manicure last longer.

Watch Now
Building your nails with Builder Gel - photographed in New Zealand on model
Building your nails with Builder Gel - photographed in New Zealand on model

8 Reasons Your Builder Gel May Be Peeling

Learn why your Builder Gel might be peeling and how to fix it. We cover common mistakes in prep, application, and shaping to help you achieve a stronger, longer-lasting gel manicure.

Watch Now
Shaping your gel nails - photographed in New Zealand on model
Shaping your gel nails - photographed in New Zealand on model

How to Shape Your Nails

Struggling to achieve the perfect nail shape? We've got you. Follow this step-by-step tutorial to learn how to shape your nails into five classic styles: coffin, square, squoval, round, and almond.

Watch Now

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