Nail prep and technique make all the difference. Whether you’re new to painting your nails or just need a refresher, our step-by-step instructions are designed to help you achieve a smooth, even finish—and make your polish last longer.
Follow the simple guide below and take the guesswork out of your polish manicure.
Apply Gelcare Nail Polish Remover onto a Removal Pad and rub it over the surface of your nails to remove the nail polish. For ultra-pigmented colours, we recommend going over a second time with a pad soaked in clean remover to eliminate any remaining pigment residues.
Apply Cuticle Softener to the cuticles. This enzymatic solution softens the skin around the nails to facilitate a gentler and deeper clean.
Push the cuticle back using the arched end of the Gel Removal Tool. Move the tool, back and forth along the natural arch of the nail to reach the edges of the cuticles. The tool should not be angled too flat or too upright. Ideally, use it at a 45° angle to allow for both comfort and grip.
This step is unique to the Gelcare technique. With the bladed end of your Gel Removal Tool, use small circular motions to dislodge any dry skin stuck under the cuticles. If needed, add more Cuticle Softener to the nails to help loosen the skin further when executing this step. The softener will also help the sharp edge move smoothly on the nail plate.
This extra cleansing step results in better nail preparation, neater gel application and more seamless regrowth.
Once you are done with this step, wipe your nails clean using a Gel Removal Pad soaked with rubbing alcohol/Nail Cleanser.
Buffing not only smoothes the nail surface, it allows for better Base Coat adhesion by creating a subtle texture on the surface of the nails.
Using the Buffing Block, gently buff the nails. Pay special attention to not thin-out the nail plate by over-buffing. Use the corners of the Buffing Block to buff the sides of the nail arch, as well as near the cuticles.
Using the more abrasive side (100) of the Curved Nail File, we want to file the excess skin on the sides of the nails first, which often causes the gel to lift. To do this, sit file in the crease of the lateral fold and file gently. Apply pressure towards the side of the nail 7and not downwards, which can cause paper cuts.
To file the nail shape, use the softer side of the Curved Nail File (180). Always file your nail tips with the softer side, so you to not damage the keratin layers of your nails.
Once you are satisfied with your shape, finish by gently brushing the tips of your nails using short downward strokes with the softer side of the Curved Nail File (180). This step smoothens the edges and is key for a clean Base Coat application and strong gel retention.
Wash your hands with soap and water. Using the Nail Scrubber Brush, scrub over and under your nails. Washing your hands also prepares the skin for the next step: cuticle trimming. When the skin is damp, the cuticles soften and become translucent, making them easier to trim.
If necessary, trim off excess cuticles with the Cuticle Nipper. Make sure to always look between the blades so you know exactly where you are about to cut. For a clean trim, use the tip of the blades and gently cut the cuticle in one long piece. If cutting your cuticles scares you, skip this step!
Before applying the polish, wipe your nails with rubbing alcohol and a Touch-up Pad, covering the entire nail plate.
Soap residue can make your nails oily, which prevents the nail polish from adhering well. After this step, avoid touching your nails with your fingers, as the skin's sebum also makes the nail surface oily.
Apply a precise and even coat of Base to the natural nails, then allow to dry for at least 2 minutes before applying the first coat of colour.
Avoid applying more than one coat of Base, as small bubbles may form and could be visible at the end of the manicure.
To ensure perfect consistency, shake the nail polish bottles before opening them. Apply two coats of colored nail polish, allowing at least 2 minutes for each coat to dry.
Since nail polish dries quickly, it's best to limit the number of brush strokes and favor long, smooth movements to avoid creating unnecessary texture on the nail.
Minor spills? Don't panic. Nail Polish can be corrected!
Pour a small amount of Nail Polish Remover into a container. Gently soak the Cleaning Brush, then redefine the nail contour by removing any polish on the skin or cuticles. This precise action enhances the shape of your manicure and brings out its brilliance.
Apply a top coat and allow the manicure to dry completely for an ultra-glossy finish.
For quick drying, use a hairdryer with the 'cool' setting and pass it over your nails for a few minutes.
