How to apply gel polish: from base to top coat
A good gel polish manicure starts with choosing suitable products and following the correct procedure. Base, colour and top serve different purposes. Lamp requirements, curing times and removal methods depend on the product range.
1. Check your products before starting
Prepare equipment suited to the system you are using:
- File, buffer and nail preparation tools.
- Surface preparation products specified by the manufacturer.
- Base coat, gel polish colour and top coat if required by the system.
- A lamp compatible with the product.
- Lint-free wipes and suitable cleansing liquid if needed.
Not every procedure needs primer or the same base. Read the instructions before adding or skipping a step.
2. Prepare the nail surface
Shape and prepare nails according to the system instructions. Remove dust and treat the surface as directed, avoiding excessive filing that thins the natural nail.
Keep the work area clean and avoid skin contact with uncured material. If product reaches the skin, remove it before placing the hand in the lamp.
3. Apply base if required
Use the base specified for your product. Control the amount to create an even layer without pooling at the skin or nail sidewalls.
Use the lamp type and curing time specified by the manufacturer. Do not infer curing time from lamp wattage alone.
4. Apply colour in layers
Distribute colour evenly without building an excessively thick layer. Cure each layer separately according to the product instructions.
The number of layers depends on coverage and the intended effect. Do not try to achieve a deeper colour with one thick layer if thin layers are required.
5. Finish with top coat
Choose a top compatible with the system and the desired glossy, matte or decorative finish.
- No-wipe top: follow the instructions for that no-wipe product.
- Top requiring wiping: after curing, remove the sticky layer using the liquid and procedure specified by the manufacturer.
Do not automatically wipe the sticky layer between every step; some systems need it for the next layer.
6. Make a final check
Inspect the surface, nail edges and surrounding skin. If the colour wrinkles, shrinks, lifts or behaves unusually, check the products and procedure before continuing.
Do not cover colour suspected of incorrect curing with extra top coat.
Common problems and what to check
| Issue | Points to check |
|---|---|
| Lifting at the free edge or sides | Surface preparation, contact with skin, layer thickness and product combinations. |
| Wrinkling or shrinking colour | Product quantity, lamp, curing time and instructions for the specific colour. |
| The surface is less glossy than expected | Top type, curing procedure and wiping requirements. |
| Product flooding the skin area | Amount on the brush and control of each layer before curing. |
One issue can have several causes. This table guides your checks and does not replace product instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine base, colour and top from different brands?
Do not assume compatibility. Prefer the system recommended by the manufacturer; combinations need confirmation of suitability.
Is longer curing always better?
No. Use the specified lamp and time rather than extending curing to compensate for an unsuitable lamp or overly thick layer.
Can all gel polish be removed with remover?
No. Removal depends on the material. Check whether the product is soak-off or needs another method; do not peel or pull it from natural nails.
What should I send LNS for help choosing products?
Send the names or codes of your base, colour and top, your lamp model and the intended use or problem you are experiencing.
