The Beginner’s Guide to Gel Nails: What You Need and How to Start

If you’re new to gel nails, this guide will help you start confidently — no salon needed.

What You Need (Starter Kit)

✔ UV/LED lamp
✔ Gel base coat
✔ Gel color polish
✔ Gel top coat
✔ Cuticle pusher
✔ Nail file and buffer
✔ Alcohol wipes

Step-by-Step

1. Prep Your Nails
Shape, buff lightly, and push back cuticles.

2. Apply Base Coat
A thin, even layer helps the polish last longer. Cure under the lamp.

3. Apply Gel Polish
Use 2 thin coats, curing each layer.

4. Apply Top Coat
Seal the color and add shine.

5. Clean the Tacky Layer
Use alcohol to remove stickiness after the final cure.

Beginner Tips

• Always apply thin layers.
• Avoid touching cuticles with polish.
• Cure each layer fully.

With practice, your gel manicures will look just like salon results.