Gel-X Application
If you're interested in exploring Gel-X, you've come to the right place!
Disclaimer: I am not a licensed nail technician—this is simply one of my hobbies.
Gel-X is so fun to do on your own because you're able to stay home, take your time, and really hone in on your skills. In the beginning, it will definitely be more time-consuming, but like everything else, practice makes perfect.
A major tip of mine: I use gloves! I use these ones.
If you want a video tutorial, you can watch this TikTok on fill-ins! The process is overall the same—the only difference is that with a fresh set, you'll need to apply the nail tips.
Step 1: Nail Prep
Nail prep is a must! This is how I do mine:
Push back cuticles
Drill around the cuticle area
Buff nails
Wipe nails with rubbing alcohol
Step 2: Apply the Tips
Before I apply my tips, I always have my sizes ready to go. I lay them out by hand so everything is organized and easy to grab.
I usually start with my right pinky, then my left pinky, and continue alternating hands. I save my thumbs for last because they're a little harder to maneuver.
This is how I go about application:
Alternate hands
Place a bit of nail glue on the nail
Flash cure
Place a bead of glue on the tip
Squeeze the tip to help spread the glue
Place the tip on the nail
Flash cure
Once all tips are applied, do a full cure
Step 3: Prep the Tips
Once the tips are on, there's one more layer of nail prep. Don't worry—we're almost there!
File nails
Buff nails
Step 4: Rubber Base (Optional)
I always overlay my tips with a rubber base. This makes them so much stronger—basically unbreakable.
This step is definitely optional, but I highly recommend it!
Step 5: Paint!
After your rubber base application (if you choose to do it), you're ready to paint!
This part is different for everyone depending on the style they're going for. Don’t forget to finish with your cuticle oil!
I typically break my nails into two days:
Day 1: Prep and application
Day 2: Painting
The only thing required for Gel-X application is patience. The more you do it, the easier and faster it gets.
You've got this!
