'How To' The Perfect Nail Prep

Perfecting how to prepare your nails for gel application is key to a long lasting manicure. Here are some detailed steps on how to do this.

1. Apply cuticle softener along your cuticles and let it sit for 1-2 minutes. You can also soak your hand in warm water to further assist in cuticle softening. The softener is for people who have stubborn cuticles . Alternatively you can push your cuticles back on dry fingers- just be sure to be very gentle.

2. Using our pro cuticle pusher, using a back and fourth motion, gently push back the band of skin at the base of your nail. Also ensure you push close to the side of your nails. The cleaner your nail beds, the easier the application for your gel and the better it will stick. Please note that you will have to do this every time you are prepping as the epicuticle (new skin) naturally grows on top of your nails when they grow out. 

3. Use the curved edge on the opposite end of our pro cuticle pusher to scrape off the dead cuticle on the base of your nail plate

4. Wipe off the remaining cuticle softener from your nail beds with a cotton pad or tissue. Now you have the option of cutting away any excess dead skin and cuticle, if you do not wish to cut your cuticles you can head to step 6.

5. Cut off excess cuticles with our pro cuticle clippers. Only cut away the lifted, dead skin, cutting off too much skin can lead to nipping of live skin, and uneven skin regrowth. Applying cuticle oil daily will help keep your cuticle area neat and tidy.

6. File your nails to the desired length and shape using our 100/180 grit file or glass nail file. To file, start from each end of the nails free edge and file in one stroke to the middle, then switch to file the other side. Do not move the file in a back and forth motion as this will cause micro splits in your nails. It is best to only file your nails when they are dry.

7. Using our buffer block, lightly buff your entire natural nail focusing around the cuticle area and tips of your nails. This will help remove any dead skin particles that you may have missed. It will also give your nail an even but gritted surface for a neat gel application.

8. Wash your hands with soap and water, be sure to scrub any cuticle softener residue then dry with a paper towel to remove any excess particles. Alternatively you can use our dusting brush to remove the particles from your natural nail beds. Failing to do either of these may result in an uneven surface under your gel polish application.

9. Apply a dehydrator to take all the moisture out of your nails. This is especially important is you have naturally oily nail beds. If you don't own a dehydrator, an alcohol wipe will work perfectly. If you are using an alcohol wipe be sure to put a lot of press on the nail as your rub it in.  

This will give you perfectly prepped nails, ready for you to apply your gel.