Doing a manicure at home using gel polish is quite simple if you correctly follow the technology for its implementation and pay attention to the choice of consumables. However, sometimes girls still encounter premature removal of the decorative coating, which is not always related to the quality of the procedure.
Often, the design of weakened, thinning nails leads to premature detachment of gel polish after 1.5-2 weeks, so many women are advised to first coat their nails with gel to further strengthen them.
Gel coating
The gel is a synthetic substance that hardens during the polymerization process. It helps to model nails, lengthen or change their shape.
The polymer coating strengthens and smoothes the nail plates. The gel is applied to the natural nail, and it does not lengthen as with extensions. The polymer layer is much thinner, the nails look natural.
If desired, you can apply varnish to the coating, but even without additional design, the nails look aesthetically pleasing and stylish.
This manicure is suitable for those who want to create a natural look. You can coat your nails with polymer not only on your hands, but also on your toes.
Who is suitable for white manicure?
To get a white manicure, you need to take into account the woman’s appearance type, as it determines how advantageous the nails will look. For example, soft shades and a beautiful modern gray-white manicure will suit the summer color type, but pure white will be inappropriate. The beauty of a winter woman will be emphasized by classic white with a slight hint of blue.
To accurately select a harmonious shade, follow the rule: the tone of the gel polish should match the whites of the eyes. This way you will settle on the most ideal option.
For the spring color type, materials for nail art are selected in white with a yellow tint, for example, ivory. The autumn type is favorably emphasized by milky, lunar white and other tones with the inclusion of beige and cream. For “autumn” girls, the darkest versions of white are suitable. But if you still want a beautiful manicure in the most luxurious white color without adding undertones, the master needs to balance it with harmonious contrasting accents.
Advantages and disadvantages
Nails coated with a gel substance not only look natural, but also become stronger and more durable. The polymer does not spoil the nail plate, but thickens and evens it out.
Helium coating has a number of other advantages that speak in favor of this technology:
- The polymer base contains natural resins that strengthen fragile plates.
- Nails do not break on impact and do not peel off.
- The manicure lasts a long time (about 20-25 days).
- There is no need to remove the old material, just make a correction.
- The nail plates have the correct shape, look attractive, and shine.
- At the same time, the cuticle is processed; as a result, it grows back more slowly than with a regular manicure.
- It is possible to form any shape of the plate.
- Large selection of different shades of material.
- The base contains no allergens.
The main disadvantage of this method is the need for periodic correction. All other disadvantages depend on the correctness of the procedure and use of the nails.
What do you need
Everything you need to carry out the procedure for strengthening the nail surface can be purchased in specialized stores. Thanks to this, work can be carried out at home. To begin with, you will have to spend a large amount, but in the future it will pay off. You should buy quality products, even though they cost more. Poor quality material will only damage your nails.
Tools and materials
The first thing to prepare is the gel itself. To perform a helium manicure you need to purchase:
- sticks (metal or orange) for moving the cuticle;
- nail file, buff, polishing the nail surface, giving them the desired configuration;
- cuticle remover for unedged manicure;
- nippers intended for trimming manicure;
- primers that remove excess moisture - acid-free or acidic for normal or wet nails, respectively;
- synthetic brush for applying polymer;
- ultraviolet lamp for drying the material;
- cleaners that degrease the nail surface and remove the sticky layer;
- products for nail decoration (varnishes, rhinestones, sparkles);
- cotton pads, lint-free wipes.
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Before purchasing materials and tools, you need to make sure the quality of the product. It is recommended to purchase products from trusted brands, based on user reviews.
Gel selection
When applying the polymer, three layers are formed: base, modeling, finishing. Each of them has its own functions. The base is the base on which subsequent layers are applied. Modeling – forms the nail plate, is responsible for the strength of the material. Finish – designed to protect against negative external factors. Therefore, special attention must be paid to the choice of material.
Getting beautiful, healthy nails largely depends on the quality of the material. There are several types of gels:
- single-phase;
- two-phase;
- three-phase;
- biogels.
The “phase” of the base indicates the number of polymer layers formed.
Single-phase gels
It is better to use a single-phase product for beginners who are practicing helium treatment on their own for the first time. It is a mixture that includes all three polymer layers. The liquid consistency makes it easier to distribute the substance over the nail plate. In addition, the load on the natural nail is not so significant, since the single-phase layer is thin. Due to its low density, the nail plate “breathes” and does not dry out. The advantages of the system include saving money and time.
But the single-phase product has its drawbacks. Low viscosity makes it difficult to form the apex (the point where the greatest thickness of the plate is concentrated). A single-phase product does not have a protective layer, so the service life of such nails is shorter. A single-phase polymer is not suitable for those who want to decorate the nail surface with three-dimensional figures or stickers, since it does not contain a sticky layer.
If there is an urgent need to attend a festive event and you need to quickly get a beautiful manicure, a single-phase option will be a good solution in this situation. Otherwise, it is better to use another material.
Biphasic gels
The two-phase polymer option includes 2 products. The first contains the base layer, and the second jar contains the modeling layer. The structure of this layer is more viscous than in a single-phase system, so it is easier to model the shape of the plate. The application of each layer is alternated with drying.
Nail baths for growth and strengthening, with salt, iodine and other recipes
The disadvantage of this system is that the protective coating is a gel that is not intended for this purpose.
Three-phase gels
The most suitable for treating nails is a three-phase system. The set consists of a base product, a structural layer and a protective coating.
In this case, the modeling substance may have a different composition:
- imitating the surface of natural nails;
- colorless;
- pigmentary.
Each of the polymer layers performs its own function. The task of the base coating is to ensure reliable adhesion of the horn plate to the gel. The thick consistency of the material allows you to give the plates different shapes. The top protects against chips and damage and ensures the safety of the material.
Although the three-phase product takes longer to apply, it has many advantages:
- adhesion between the material and the nail surface is much stronger;
- the thickness at the end of the plate can prevent breakage;
- the coating lasts a long time;
- It is possible to decorate the horny surface with any design.
The procedure is labor-intensive and requires a large investment of material resources, but the quality of the coating is much higher than when using a one- and two-phase system.
Biogel
Biogel is often used to strengthen nails. This is a polymer that contains rubber resin. Very often it is used to improve the health of nail plates damaged after poor-quality extensions.
The material is very elastic, so it is not used to lengthen the plate. With its help, you can only extend the corners to give shape or restore the plate.
The advantages of this tool include:
- environmental safety;
- no allergic reaction;
- natural looking nails;
- protection of nails from damage;
- strength and durability;
- does not require filing of the nail plate.
Biogel is an excellent option for women with a thin horny plate. It will help heal the nails, strengthen them, and give them rigidity. Biogel can be coated with any varnish.
Beautiful white manicure: ideas 2022
- Romantic white manicure with floral motifs
Flowers seem to be created by nature itself to decorate women. Prints on dresses and nail designs - we often prefer floral themes. Do not doubt that flowers and floral patterns will also be relevant for the design of an elegant white manicure.
The trend is to depict small buds, leaves, branches, and very tiny flowers on a white background. Choose according to your taste, whether it will be small inclusions of a floral theme or complex designs with chic flowers. To play with light or add additional attractiveness to your nails, you can add sparkles, stones or rhinestones.
- Fashionable classics: black and white manicure
A beautiful black and white manicure with gel polish is especially relevant and attracts with its sharp contrast combination. An experienced master will be able to give it intrigue, drama and grace.
This color design can be diluted with drawings of cartoon characters and animals, and unusual objects. For example, Mickey Mouse ears on a white background or pins, buttons, stars look cute. Strokes and stripes, ethnic patterns, zigzags and monograms, chessboards, black and white marble patterns - all this is more relevant than ever.
- Charming white and red manicure
A manicure with a combination of red and white shades will attract the attention of people around you, and you definitely won’t go unnoticed. Strips of foil, rhinestones, and various light lines will add expressiveness and charm to such nail art.
- Amazing white manicure with a pattern
A smooth white color looks like a blank canvas for an artist, so it’s tempting to add patterns and designs to create the desired character - gentle, restrained or, on the contrary, playful. For romantic natures, patterns with lace, monograms and flowers are suitable. Creative girls will be attracted by ornaments on a white background. Geometric and laconic images look appropriate in any situation.
- Attractive matte nail design on a white background
The matte white finish looks especially elegant and is chosen by the most fashionable girls. This color has a calming effect and at the same time attracts with its attractiveness. If you see a beautiful white manicure in a photo and you like it, feel free to do the same for yourself!
Professionals in the field of nail design confirm that in 2022, white manicure with matte varnish will become the main trend. Moreover, in all variations and with the use of decor. For example, a beautiful white and blue manicure or a white and gray manicure with a gradient, any solution will look charming!
- Irresistible white manicure with foil
A real “must have” for this season is pieces of foil on your nails. An unusual design with multi-colored, gold and silver foil on a white background can give its owner style, originality and attractiveness. Try this new product on your nails, the result will definitely please you. The foil is applied entirely to one nail or in pieces on the white background of accent nails.
- Spectacular marble white manicure
A beautiful design can be made in the form of an imitation of a natural pattern on quartz or marble. In this case, a white background is ideal for repeating the surface of minerals on the nail plates. Gray-black stains can be painted with a small addition of pink. The marble effect looks very stylish.
To soften the severity and coldness of the stone motif, use sparkles, foil, matte varnish, and glitter.
Step-by-step instruction
The procedure for covering nails with gel is simple. You can do it yourself at home, without turning to professional craftsmen. The main thing is to follow the technology, performing all operations consistently.
How to prepare your nails
Before applying the polymer, the nails must be properly treated. It is recommended to take a therapeutic hand bath 2-3 hours before the procedure.
Preparation of the nail plate is as follows:
- Excess length is trimmed, the nail is filed, giving the desired shape.
- Degrease the surface of the plate using a cleaner.
- The cuticle is treated: with an unedged manicure, it is softened with a remover and pushed back with an orange stick; when trimmed, the cuticle is moved and trimmed with nippers.
- Sand the plate with a buff, carefully removing the top layer.
- Remove remaining fat with a cleaner.
- A thin layer of primer is applied to ensure adhesion of the polymer to the plate.
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After treatment, you should not touch the surface of the nail, otherwise the material will lose its adhesive properties.
Stages of the procedure
The process of strengthening nails with gel consists of several stages. You can't miss any of them. Be sure to read the product instructions. Depending on the materials used, the process may vary slightly, but the basic steps remain the same.
No extension
Gel strengthening without extensions involves applying polymer to natural nails. You can coat both short and long nails with polymer.
After preparing and drying the nail plates, the main procedure begins. It is carried out in several stages:
- Apply a thin base layer, being careful not to get on the cuticles and skin. The sides and ends are carefully processed.
- Hands are placed in a lamp to dry for 1-2 minutes.
- A modeling layer is applied with a brush, with which you can adjust the shape.
- By placing your hands in the lamp, the gel is polymerized for 3-4 minutes.
- Clean the surface from the sticky layer. To give the desired length and level the sides, cut off the excess polymer by removing the sawdust with a brush.
- Apply the finishing layer.
- Dry the nails in a lamp by placing your hands there for 1 minute.
- Use a cleaner to get rid of the sticky layer.
The whole process takes no more than 1.5 hours. After the procedure is completed, the cuticles are soaked in emollient oil. Then you can coat the surface of the nails with varnish or decorate with additional elements.
With extension
To cover with extensions, you will need additional elements to model your nails. Tips are most often used as templates. In order for the nails to have a natural look, the shape of the tips must completely match the outline of the plate.
Further work is performed in the following order:
- Glue is applied to the contact area of the tips, applied to the nail, pressing tightly and holding for some time.
- The tips are cut with pliers, giving them the desired shape.
- File the joint at the top of the tip so that there is no step.
- Apply the base starting from the middle of the nail, gradually spreading to the edges. If a single-phase system is used, then the first layer can be colored. If it is three-phase, then it is transparent.
- Polymerize in a lamp for no more than 1 minute.
- Apply a modeling base and dry it again in a lamp.
- Remove the sticky layer, sand the artificial surface, and remove excess polymer with a brush.
- Cover the nails with the finishing compound, sealing the ends. The last layer is also dried in a lamp.
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The extension process lasts 2-3 hours. For an hour after finishing work, you must avoid getting your hands wet to prevent the polymer from peeling off.
Decor of a beautiful white manicure
The festive effect on nails is created in different ways. A beautiful white manicure with sparkles can be decorated using a modern decor called “kamifubiki”. Shiny confetti conveys the transition of one color to another or is even applied in the form of a “smile” of a French jacket. You can choose different decoration methods:
- 3D and fimo stickers;
- crystals and rhinestones;
- stamping;
- glitter and Yuki flakes;
- slider design;
- rubbing or acrylic powder;
- tear-off or transfer foil.
There are no restrictions on the use of decorative effects; any idea can be realized. For example, a beautiful white manicure with silver. An original and effective design will be achieved if you cover the white background with rubbing and then apply an image or acrylic sand.
To create a beautiful white manicure with rhinestones, bouillons and stones are attached to accent nails. For a festive option, you can combine sparkles and small mother-of-pearl with flakes: this is even true for creating a sophisticated look.
Home care rules
The durability of a manicure largely depends on the individual characteristics of the nails and the quality of the procedure performed. Taking proper care of your manicure will help you maintain your manicure for a long time.
How long does the coating last?
The preservation of the gel coating for a long time without deformation depends on the material used.
Single-phase systems are stable for no more than a week. But the gel lasts much longer on the feet, so they can be used for pedicures. Three-phase polymers are more stable; gel manicure lasts about 3-4 weeks. The service life of biogel is about a month.
Manufacturers of cosmetic products offer a large number of different materials. Many of them described themselves positively.
The largest number of positive reviews were given to the brands presented in the table:
| Type of gel | Model name | pros | Minuses |
| Single phase | Jessnail | self-leveling; with a liquid consistency; low price | takes a long time to dry; possible irritation |
| Single-phase Three-phase | Runail | medium viscosity camouflage agent; disguises small defects | not very durable; Doesn't dry without a UV lamp. |
| Single phase | Global | average wear resistance; hypoallergenic | high price |
| Three-phase | Formula Profi | high adhesion of the base and absence of odor; viscous structure of the construction gel; no sticky layer in the top composition | high price |
| Three-phase | All season | high wear resistance; transparent structure with glitter; easy to apply | high price |
| Three-phase | IBD | self-leveling base; without smell; hardens quickly; adheres well to the surface of the nails | intended for professional use only |
Manufacturers of these materials guarantee coating durability of at least 3 weeks.
When choosing a specific brand, you need to focus on the quality of the polymer, your taste and the material component.
After coating
In order for the polymer to lay down more evenly, a few days before the procedure, you will need to stop lubricating your hands with greasy creams, applying masks, and making hand baths.
Following some rules will help preserve the beauty of your nails:
- Do not wet your hands for 24 hours after the procedure. During this time, the polymerization process will be completed and the gel coating will become durable.
- Carry out all housework with rubber gloves. This will help avoid chipping and maintain the original shine of the coating.
- If varnish is applied to the gel coating, do not use acetone to remove it, as the polymer may peel off.
- The varnishes should not contain acetone, only acrylic or gel.
- Soak your hands daily with a cream containing lanolin. This is especially useful for the cuticle.
You also need to monitor your diet, including foods containing calcium, silicon, and biotin. In combination with vitamins, this will help strengthen the horny surface. Regular nail correction will also be required.
Fashion Design Examples
Among the fashion trends this season there is an interesting design: it is called “Different Hands”. At the same time, the style is preserved. In light colors you can do the following options:
- One hand is covered with white varnish, the other with delicate lilac (pastel lemon, mint, sakura).
- On one hand there is a white-pink gradient, on the other there is pink gel polish.
- One hand is covered with beige varnish, the middle and ring fingers are blue with a white stripe in the center. The second is covered with white gel polish, the middle and ring fingers are white with a blue stripe in the center.
Any light gel polishes are suitable for creating complex designs. A photo of a possible option shows stamping on accent fingers. A pattern is made in the color of the main coating on a white background. The “Different Hands” design is also used with stamping: they print different patterns in a contrasting color, leaving the background the same.
Naturalness is very popular now. Therefore, a design with drops of transparent gel polish, reminiscent of just rain, is also in fashion. It is still relevant to create a large design on one nail. It could be a butterfly, dragonfly, flower. The design is decorated with rhinestones and drops of gel.
