Applying polygel is similar to applying semi-permanent nail polish. Except that the technique is faster, as there aren’t many layers of polish required. Whether you choose to go to a salon or do it yourself, in addition to a manicure kit, you will also need:

• A tube of polygel,
• Pop-its or even tips, and stencils—these are molds that allow you to lengthen your nails and increase their length.
• Fragrance-free and colorant-free nail liquid or cleaner (or acetone).
• An application brush.

These equipment are most often available in kits sold in stores or beauty salons. Finally, you’ll need a dedicated nail curing machine, such as a UV LED lamp.

Prepare Your Nails

The first step is to prepare your nails, you must:

• Wash and disinfect your nails, especially if they are bitten.
• Push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher and remove any excess.
• File your nail with a nail drill machine to achieve the desired shape, then buff the surface with a soft file to avoid damaging it.
• Dust off your nails before disinfecting them again. This time, use a specific nail cleaning product to quickly degrease them.

Applying Acrylic Gel

To begin, choose the right size of gel tips for your nails. Feel free to try them on your fingers to make sure they’re the right size. The gel tips shouldn’t extend beyond your nails.

Next, apply a base coat to your nails and cure them under a UV or LED lamp for 30 seconds to 3 minutes. Under a UV lamp, the curing process may take longer. This coat will allow the gel tips to adhere easily to your nails and also protect them.

Next, take a small amount of gel and place it on the gel tips. Apply it well with the brush, so that the gel tips have the desired shape.

Place the gel tips on your nails, making sure they don’t extend beyond the edges. Press lightly so that the product adheres perfectly to your nails.

Each time you apply the gel to the tips, you’ll need to dip the brush in nail liquid or acetone to prevent the polygel from sticking to it. This will also help remove any excess gel from your nails.

Once the polygel is perfectly applied to all fingers, you’ll need to apply a catalyst to the UV gel nails for about 30 seconds to harden them. Once everything has hardened, gently remove the tips and file the edges of the polished nails to achieve the perfect length and shape.

The Finishing Step

The finishing step will depend on your taste. You can choose to apply traditional or semi-permanent nail polish. You can also apply a top coat to ensure shine and long-lasting hold.

Some tips for applying polygel properly

To ensure the polygel holds perfectly, here are a few tips to follow:

• When applying false nails, leave about 1 mm between the nail edge and the cuticles. If gel has dripped onto the skin, the nails may peel off from the bottom.
• Apply the gel evenly and evenly so that all areas of the nail are covered.

If you choose to use tips, be sure to choose the right size. A tip that is too small may peel off very quickly. When applying the tips, be careful not to use too much glue.

Read also: How to dress your nails in summer?