How to Apply Gel With It 6-Piece Gel Effect Nail Polish Set for a Salon Finish at Home

Quick Answer

To achieve a salon-quality gel effect manicure at home with the Gel With It 6-Piece Set, start with clean, dry nails, apply a base coat, then two thin coats of color, and finish with a top coat. Cure each layer under a UV or LED lamp as directed, and avoid touching your nails until fully cured. This set simplifies the process, giving you a glossy, long-lasting finish without the salon price tag.

Gel manicures are beloved for their durability and high-shine finish, but frequent salon visits can be time-consuming and costly. The Gel With It 6-Piece Gel Effect Nail Polish Set from Nails Inc London brings the salon experience to your home, offering a complete system for a flawless gel-effect manicure. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned DIY enthusiast, this set provides everything you need to achieve professional-looking nails.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of applying the Gel With It set, from prepping your nails to sealing in the shine. We'll also share common mistakes to avoid and tips to make your manicure last longer. Get ready to say goodbye to chipped polish and hello to beautiful, gel-effect nails.

What's in the Gel With It 6-Piece Set?

Before diving into the application, it's essential to know what's included in the Gel With It 6-Piece Set. This comprehensive kit typically contains a gel-effect base coat, two or more color polishes, a high-shine top coat, and sometimes a nail prep solution. Each product is formulated to work together, ensuring optimal adhesion and longevity.

The set is designed to mimic the look of professional gel polish without the need for UV curing, though some versions may require a lamp. Always check the instructions included with your set to understand the specific requirements. If your set includes a lamp, follow the recommended curing times for each layer.

• Read the instruction manual thoroughly before starting to understand the curing process.
• Ensure you have lint-free wipes and isopropyl alcohol for cleaning the sticky residue after curing, if applicable.

Prepping Your Nails for Long-Lasting Wear

Proper nail preparation is crucial for a gel manicure that lasts. Start by removing any old polish and shaping your nails with a file. Push back your cuticles gently and buff the nail surface lightly to create a rough texture, which helps the polish adhere better.

After shaping, wash your hands with soap and water to remove any oils, then dry thoroughly. Avoid applying lotion or cuticle oil right before polishing, as this can cause the polish to peel. If your set includes a nail cleanser or dehydrator, use it to ensure the nails are completely oil-free.

• Use a fine-grit buffer to gently mattify the nail surface—avoid over-buffing, which can thin the nail.
• Don't skip the dehydrator step if provided; it's key to preventing lifting.

Applying the Base Coat

The base coat is the foundation of your gel manicure. Apply a thin, even layer of the base coat to each nail, making sure to seal the free edge (the tip of the nail) to prevent chipping. Avoid getting the polish on your cuticles or skin, as this can cause lifting.

If your set requires curing, place your nails under the lamp for the recommended time (usually 30-60 seconds). Once cured, the base coat should be slightly tacky, which is normal for gel polish. If your set is a no-lamp formula, allow it to air dry for a few minutes before moving on to the color.

• Keep the base coat thin—a thick layer can pool and create bumps.
• If you accidentally get polish on your skin, clean it up with a brush dipped in acetone before curing.

Applying the Gel Effect Color

Now for the fun part—color! Choose your shade from the set and apply a thin first coat. Start at the center of the nail and brush outward, then fill in the sides. Be careful to keep the polish away from the cuticles and sidewalls. A thin coat is essential for a smooth, even finish.

Cure the first coat under the lamp if needed, then apply a second thin coat for full opacity. The second coat ensures the color is vibrant and even. After curing the second coat, you can assess if a third coat is necessary, especially for lighter shades that may be sheer.

• Always apply thin coats to avoid bubbling and uneven curing.
• If the polish is streaky, resist the urge to add a thick layer—just apply another thin coat.

Sealing with Top Coat

The top coat is your secret weapon for a high-shine, durable finish. Apply a generous but even layer over the cured color, ensuring you cap the free edge to seal the polish. This step adds gloss and protects the color from chipping and fading.

Cure the top coat according to the instructions. Once cured, if the polish feels sticky, wipe each nail with a lint-free wipe and a bit of isopropyl alcohol to remove the inhibition layer. This reveals the glossy finish and completes your manicure.

• Don't skip the top coat—it's what gives the gel effect its signature shine.
• If you're not using a lamp, allow the top coat to dry completely before using your hands.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Prep Your Nails: Remove old polish, shape, push cuticles, and lightly buff the nail surface. Clean with soap and water, then dry thoroughly. Proper prep ensures better adhesion and longevity.
2. Apply Base Coat: Apply a thin, even layer of base coat, sealing the free edge. Cure or air dry as directed. A thin base coat prevents peeling and extends wear.
3. Apply Color in Thin Coats: Apply a thin first coat of color, cure, then apply a second thin coat for full opacity. Add a third if needed. Thin coats are key to avoiding bubbles and ensuring even color.
4. Finish with Top Coat: Apply a generous layer of top coat, sealing the free edge. Cure or dry, then wipe off any sticky residue with alcohol. The top coat gives the glossy, gel-like finish and protects your manicure.
5. Post-Application Care: After curing, apply cuticle oil to hydrate the skin around your nails. Avoid hot water and harsh chemicals for the first 24 hours. Caring for your nails after application helps maintain the finish and nail health.

Product Facts

• Mayfair Lane Gel Effect Nail Polish: This pink crème shade delivers a high-shine, long-lasting manicure with a gel-effect finish without the need for a UV lamp. The vegan formula is hydrating and quick-drying. This polish is an excellent choice for a no-lamp gel look, offering convenience and nail care benefits in one product.
• Number Ones Mini Base and Top Coat Duo: This mini duo includes a nourishing base coat and a long-wear top coat, both vegan-friendly, designed to support healthy-looking nails and extend the life of your manicure. Using a dedicated base and top coat is essential for a professional finish, and this duo provides the essential layers to maximize the wear of your gel-effect polish.

With the Gel With It 6-Piece Gel Effect Nail Polish Set, you can achieve a salon-quality gel manicure in the comfort of your own home. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you'll enjoy glossy, long-lasting nails that look professionally done. Explore the set and other gel-effect products from Nails Inc London to elevate your at-home manicure game.