Cat eye manicure - step by step instructions for applying gel polish and using a magnet

Gel polish has gained rapid popularity among different ages. Its advantage is that it can stay on nails for up to 4 weeks. And this is a good result. Now you don’t need to paint your nails every 2 days with regular polish. The varnish contains a special gel that polymerizes in a UF or LED lamp. Handles remain well-groomed for a long time.

Cat's eye is considered a popular gel polish. The cat eye effect is right on the nail. Isn't this fantastic? This effect is achieved using a shaped magnet, which is applied to gel polish with metal particles. Special particles in the varnish are attracted to a magnet and a pattern is obtained in the shape of a magnet with a wandering overflow.

Popular cat eye polish brands

There are many popular brands, but there are 3 of the best gel polishes:

Leaneil. Uniform distribution over the entire surface. For dense coverage, one layer of base coat (base color) and a layer of cat's eye are enough. Large selection of colors.
Bluesky. Large palette. Has a healing effect for brittle nails. Quality and reasonable price, this is the best combination.
TNL magnet. One coat is enough for rich color. Manicure lasts up to 3 weeks.

Reference! Typically, a cat eye is applied on a dark base, called a base coat. Light versions of the cat's eye are less common, since it is more difficult to achieve a noticeable glare on them.

Step by step guide

All the steps are very simple, and the concept itself is similar to the idea of a regular manicure.

First you should prepare your nails, as in the case of applying regular gel polish.
Then you need to apply the “cat” varnish in one layer, but it is important that it is thick enough. An important point - do not overdo it, as it must dry thoroughly. If you wish or the product is very liquid, you can apply it in two thin layers.
Before drying, you need to bring the magnet and count to five. Five seconds is enough to fully form the pattern. There is no point in holding the magnet longer as this will not affect the clarity of the image.
After the coating has already been applied and dried, you can begin decorating your nails. Another option is to cover your nails with a top product and dry it.
Finally, you will need to remove the sticky layer.

When it comes to drying, much will depend on the quality of the products used and the brand. Some varnish coatings may spread because their consistency is too liquid. To maintain the clearest possible pattern, you should dry your nails one at a time - magnetize one nail and immediately put it under a lamp. If the product is thick, then you don’t have to rush, since there is enough time to paint several nails at the same time.

Step-by-step instructions for painting nails with cat polish

Getting a beautiful manicure is not difficult. To do this, you need to apply all the layers correctly and in turn:

Initial preparation. Put the nail plate in order for further application of products. Shape the nails using a nail file. Next comes polishing using a buff.
Cover the nail with base. Dry in a UV or ice lamp.
Shake the bottle of nail polish. Paint the layer. Bring the magnet as close to the nail plate as possible. Distance 4-5 mm. You need to wait about 5 seconds.
It is better to do all layers thinly. Thick layers crack faster. As a result, your manicure will have to be changed much more often.
We send our hand into the lamp.
Apply again and repeat all over again.
You should try to hold the magnet equally clearly on all fingers. Otherwise, the drawing may appear differently.
If the gel is thick, then one application is enough. If it does not apply well, then a second application will be useful.
The last and final stage is the top. The top may come with a sticky layer. Then it should be removed with a special liquid.
Treat the cuticle with oil. It nourishes and moisturizes.
Apply hand cream, as the lamp dries the skin very much.

Required Tools

Regardless of whether a manicure is performed in a salon or at home, the list of equipment is the same. For a truly spectacular manicure, you will need the following list of items.

standard set for hygienic manicure;
buff;
means for degreasing the nail plate.
varnish coating with the required effect or several at once. This will depend on the desire to do a familiar manicure, or on plans to create a certain combination of colors;
special magnet;
UV lamp;
base coat;
top gel;
sticky layer remover;
special lint-free napkins for manicure.

As an addition, you can prepare a gel polish of a dark, rich tone. The best option is green or black to create a background. A special brush for gel polish, used by nail salons. Its advantage is comfortable, uniform and accurate application of the product. Compositions that will be required for proper application of varnish coating from a specific manufacturer. Some brands require the use of a primer.

An important point is that for the first time you need to devote at least three hours to performing this procedure. Over time, practical skills will help you cope with manicure faster, although a lot depends on the quality of the varnish used.

How to preserve color for a long time

It is quite possible to preserve color for a long time:

Good top and base. They will help consolidate the results for a long time.
Primer. A high-quality primer prolongs the life of your manicure.
Step by step application. Completion of all stages.
On weak nails, the gel will not last long. It is better to treat the nail plate with mineral complexes in advance.
Before starting the procedure, hands must be dry.
In the first 2 days, treat your nails with care.
Do housework with gloves.

Following these simple rules is not difficult at all. Then the manicure will last longer, and your fingers will remain perfect until the end.

Extra Depth

There are several secrets to creating compelling depth and sharp images.

You must first apply a black background to the base product and dry it. It will not be noticeable, but will enhance the volume effect. This will help achieve the most striking result. An important point - you should try to apply the black background in a uniform and dense layer to avoid additional work - applying a 2nd layer, which can visually make it too thick. Minor flaws will eventually be invisible.
An important point is that the magnet must have high attractive properties so that the particles are immediately concentrated in the required place on the surface of the nail plate.
The key to a clear and bright manicure is thoroughly mixing the contents of the container before use. It is best to warm it well in your hands and shake it several times.
More layers of coating – a more obvious effect. The optimal solution is two layers if the varnish coating has a thick consistency. But one application of varnish may well be enough. It's worth trying on tips first.

Photos of cat eye manicure

Little tricks

Varnish coatings with a similar effect, as a rule, have a fairly thick consistency. This makes it possible to apply the varnish in one layer, which will dry thoroughly and create the desired accent.
The magnetic agent to enhance the effect can be applied in two layers, and it does not matter whether each layer is magnetized separately or not.
A designer manicure looks especially attractive when the design is on all nails in the same area.
If the highlight is not located on the surface of the nail in the right place, for example, it has moved to the side, then you just need to tilt the magnet in the required direction to move the metal inclusions.

Reviews

Irina My nails are flabby and thin. Previously I painted it with regular varnish. I had to do this often because it didn’t last long. But I didn’t really want to spend time painting my nails every time. Either there is no desire, or there is time. When I went to the salon for the first time and they gave me a manicure with gel polish, I really liked it. My manicure was called cat eye. Looks impressive. And you don’t need to paint it often. My nails are now constantly well-groomed and even stronger. Apparently, the nail plate has strengthened over time. I highly recommend girls try it. This is really cool.

Natalya I have been using gels for a long time. I paint mostly at home and for myself, and sometimes for my girlfriends. I have a lot of flowers, I always buy something new. So the cat's eye has joined my selection. I really liked it. It looks beautiful on nails, I would even say luxurious. Fingers look bright, regardless of color. Since such an effect will not go unnoticed.

Evgeniya I love the cat's eye effect. That's the only one I use. Looks cool and expensive. I do my nails at home, using a UV lamp and, of course, a special magnet. Magnets are also different, so the effect will be different. With different magnets, the pattern changes. So it’s very cool, I’m delighted.

Elena Good afternoon. I've been fascinated by the cat's eye for a long time. I'm tired of these regular polishes. I really like this effect. Look amazing. It can be used for every day or for some event. With him you will always be the center of attention. I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't tried it.

Inna The cat effect is just a mega find. How did I live without him before? Just great. That's all I do all the time. The manicure turns out beautiful and gentle. I really like this effect.

Basic points about a magnet

Magnet directly

The key to success is the use of quality equipment. The result is comfort and ease of use, a beautiful and aesthetic manicure. As an alternative, you can use a regular magnet. An important requirement is that it must have strong attractive properties.

Distance from the nail surface and influence on the final effect

It will not be so obvious if you place the magnet 1 centimeter from the surface of the nail plate. According to the instructions, it must be placed at a distance of 2 to 3 millimeters from the nail, but in practice this distance is 5 millimeters.

How else can you create the “Cat Eye” effect?

This effect can be created not only with the help of a special gel polish. You can use cat eye pigments.

This option helps to diversify the designs with gel polishes that you already have. With the help of pigment and a magnet, you can add a stunning effect to your manicure at any time and give your manicure a special twist.

How to use pigment?

To do this, you need to mix it with a small amount of gel polish, gel paint or top coat, and then apply it like a regular “Cat Eye” gel polish on the nail plate.

Experienced masters apply the “Cat's Eye” pigment directly to the undried layer of gel polish on the nail plate, mix it with a thin brush, and then create the desired pattern with a magnet. This option saves time and allows you to combine several pigment options in different parts of the nail plate.

Thanks to gel polishes and pigments with the “Cat Eye” effect and imagination, you get a manicure with an interesting design! Don't be afraid to experiment! Create unique patterns and show your individuality!

Magnetic gel polishes with a depth effect: what is the secret of their success?

Since their appearance in the nail industry, “cat” gel polishes (as well as gel polish tops with this effect and magnetic pigments for polishes and gel polishes) have become one of the most popular express design options for natural or extended nails.
Their beauty in the finished image looks so stunningly beautiful that it no longer requires addition in the form of decorative elements used in complex images to emphasize the depth of color. When executed correctly, these types of magnetic gel polish allow you to save time on creating a creative design, do not require intricate painting, and thanks to several color pigments mixed into the thickness of the material, they successfully fit into many looks in the wardrobe of ladies of all ages. The special technology used in the production process of “Cat Eyes with Double Glare” (or as they are also called “Chameleon Cat Eyes”), as well as their component composition, allows you to see how, under the influence of a magnet, fascinating iridescent colors are formed, and at a certain incidence of light they are transformed, smoothly flowing from one to another, magnetic patterns. In order to become a guru of chrysoberyl design, you do not need to take special courses, since educational mini-videos from brands that have released such coatings on the market clearly demonstrate how to reveal all the charm of “cats” "To the maximum. As for the choice between 3D, 4D and 5D, it is worth keeping in mind that in this way manufacturers, by and large, simply distinguish their creations from competitors’ products in terms of beauty, durability, brightness, pigmentation and hiding power of 3D gel polishes are in no way inferior to versions with four or five color variations.

Photo by: @nails_beauty_office_/@tnlprofessional

In terms of glare width, ease of magnetization and response to lighting (LED lamps, incandescent lamps, natural sunlight), 3D and 5D cats are quite close to each other and can be used in one image without the risk of making some fingers less beautiful than the entire image alone in 5d version. The latest version of the kitties wins only in terms of the number of color combinations in one bottle. However, in order to fully enjoy all facets of the beauty of this decor, you must always have on hand three indispensable attributes for creating a magnetic design.

Magnetic varnishes

Unusual varnishes were released in 2007. Since that time, the art of manicure began to develop globally. The first editions sold out very quickly, and specialists increasingly began to produce varnishes containing magnetic additions.

You can use them to create a custom manicure. On the World Wide Web or in magazines, you can see photos of cat eye magnets for nail polish.

This polish looks absolutely normal. It has a barely noticeable metallic sheen. It is due to the presence of these metal particles and interaction with the magnet that an unusual pattern on the nail is obtained.

To make a beautiful design from this metallic varnish, you need to purchase magnetic plates. Now there are many types with different stencil designs for nails.

In addition to such magnets, magnetic pens were invented. They make it easier to create patterns on your nails.

Popular manufacturers

Bluesky

The Chinese manufacturer has earned its popularity thanks to its undeniable advantages.

The special formula of the coloring composition has a beneficial effect on brittle and peeling nail plates. It saturates them with essential substances, giving them an attractive appearance.
Extensive color palette.
The manufacturer controls the high quality of all product components, which eliminates the occurrence of allergic reactions.
The manicure remains stable on the nails for about three weeks.
The product can be easily removed using specialized compounds.
The manufacturer has taken care of the possibility of purchasing a varnish coating along with additional components that will allow even beginners to create a spectacular manicure.
Reasonable price with high quality products.

The average cost of one container of varnish will cost 250 rubles.

Lianail

The German brand is especially popular among professionals due to its undeniable advantages.

The optimal consistency makes it possible to evenly distribute the varnish coating on the surface of the nail the first time.
All products have rich pigmentation, which also guarantees excellent results from the first application.
Wide possibilities in creating a variety of combinations, thanks to the optimal combination of all tones of the palette.
Easy removal of coating from nails using special compounds.
The manicure remains durable for 3 weeks without damage. Do not be afraid of homework and other activities.

On average, one bottle will cost 400 rubles.

TNL

The South Korean manufacturer managed to competently combine high quality products and an acceptable pricing policy.

Strict product quality control at all stages of production.
Optimal consistency and pigmentation provide dense and uniform coverage in one layer.
There is no need to purchase additional coatings of the same brand, since others can be used.
A wonderful combination of all shades available in the palette.
The designer manicure will remain in its original form for three weeks.

The average cost of one container is 250 rubles.

Ways to preserve your manicure for a long time

To extend the life of your manicure, follow these rules:

Contact with aggressive detergents, chemical reagents, open fire, or prolonged exposure of hands to hot water is not recommended.
Gloves should be used when working with abrasives.
It is forbidden to pick, pry, or trim the edge of the nail even after cracks or chips have formed.

No matter how well-groomed the manicure may seem, it is recommended to wear the coating for 2-3 weeks. In this way, it will be possible to avoid chips, breaks, drying out of the plate, and untidy manicure.

Recommendations for those who have just started doing manicures at home

A few rules that must be followed:

Magnets should be stored separately from gel polishes. Otherwise, the varnishes will quickly deteriorate, making them impossible to use.
Before using the gel polish, shake thoroughly for several minutes. This is necessary for the uniform distribution of microscopic metal particles in the liquid.
Degreasing the nail plate using special liquids is a mandatory procedure. It should not be neglected. Otherwise you will not achieve a good effect.
Don't forget about the base layer. This stage not only ensures the excellent appearance of the manicure, but also provides the necessary durability. If a layer is not applied, the manicure will peel off within a couple of days, which is a sad sight.
If for some reason a dark “base” was not applied, then the manicure application technology changes. First, the nails are painted and dried without using a special magnet. Then, a drawing is applied to the second layer.
To get the maximum effect, you should keep the magnet close to the nail plate (from one to three millimeters, no more). The magnet must be completely stationary. No touching allowed.
Those steps that are recommended to be carried out with each nail separately should be done separately, otherwise the varnish will harden too quickly. Another unpleasant option is possible - its spreading, damage to the design. Only if the above conditions are met can clear drawings be obtained.
Some nail art masters do not use a top coat, as they believe that such a detail visually worsens the resulting look. You can have your own opinion on this matter, so it makes sense to try both manicure options and choose the one that suits you.

Attention! After you have done this type of manicure, such as “cat’s eye”, it is not recommended to visit saunas or steam baths for the first two days. Sudden changes in ambient temperature will nullify all efforts - the surface of the nail plate may crack.