Self-taught gel nail extension. Workplace equipment. Cnd gel for nail extension. Reviews

The fashion for short nails covered with bright varnish began to fade into the background. From now on, girls can increasingly see long nails that look graceful and feminine. However, it is not so easy to grow beautiful marigolds: they break, exfoliate, and the shape of the nail plate may be far from ideal. Modern women have a great alternative - gel extensions. The procedure allows you to become the owner of a gorgeous manicure in just a few hours. In this article, we will answer the question of how to extend nails with gel.

Advice! Ditch metal files in favor of glass or paper files.

Advantages and disadvantages

This method of lengthening the nail plate is considered convenient and safe. Nail artists recommend gel build-up for the following reasons:

  • for a professional master, the procedure lasts about 3 hours, it will take more time for self-extension;
  • the material is hypoallergenic;
  • slightly affects the condition of your own nails;
  • the gel has no foreign odors;
  • gel technology allows you to make a natural and natural manicure;
  • the coating is durable.

Among the disadvantages are the fragility of the gel and the tendency to form cracks. In addition, the gel coat is difficult to remove.

Advice! Before building your nails, improve their condition with strengthening baths. Iodine, glycerin, lemon juice and sea salt are added to them.

Tools and materials

To carry out the work you will need:

  • a hybrid lamp - UV or LED (in a UV lamp, the lamps will have to be changed periodically, the cheapest copy costs about a thousand rubles);
  • disinfectant to prevent infection;
  • a means for removing a sticky layer, an alcoholic solution of boric acid is suitable;
  • gel;
  • finish gel;
  • flat brush for applying gel coat;
  • files;
  • wooden orange sticks;
  • tweezers;
  • bonder;
  • glue for tips;
  • tips - tips made of plastic, imitating the natural nail plate;
  • shapes are sketch templates. They can be made from Teflon, metal and paper. The latter material is suitable for one-time use, which is better from a hygiene point of view. The shapes have divisions that help make the marigolds symmetrical.

Advice! The inclusion of cottage cheese and fish in the diet has a positive effect on the condition of the nail plate.

How to build nails correctly

At the first stage, it is necessary to cut off the top layer. It will become dull and rough, which will improve the adhesion of materials. To do this, you need a hard file. After cutting, be sure to brush off the resulting dust with a brush or brush. Wipe the nail plate with a degreasing liquid (primer, bonder, dehydrator). Treat the skin around the cuticle thoroughly.

The next step will be to fix the mold or a special plastic tip - tips. The stencil should fit snugly. If you leave a small gap, then the manicure is unlikely to serve faithfully.

Forms are presented in two types - upper and lower. The shape of the upper shape follows the natural semicircular shape of the nail. The mold is attached to the top of the nail plate.

The lower form is attached with an adhesive solution, but already from the bottom of the marigold. It is unlikely that the first time you will be able to attach the template at the right angle. One awkward movement, and the nail will become too bent inward, like the claws of a bird of prey. The templates are suitable for thin nails and miniature nail plates.

A high-quality build-up will take a lot of time. We'll have to be patient so that the result of the work pleases.

As for the lamp, it is better to purchase a hybrid or LED, as materials and varnishes dry faster in them. They will also be needed for manicure with gel polish. It is better to give preference to instances equipped with a timer, since they turn off themselves.

Advice! Periodically rub oils into the surface of the nail: olive, almond and coconut.

Gel nail extension technique


The gel coating will last for several weeks and will delight with its glossy shine if the following recommendations are strictly followed:

  • Avoid using moisturizer for your hands. The remaining oily film will only interfere with the work, and a gap will remain between the nail and the gel coating.
  • It is recommended to cleanse the cuticles before the procedure.
  • If you are taking hormonal or antibiotic medications, it is best to skip the build-up. The same goes for pregnant women.
  • Critical days are a reason to postpone nail extension to another day.
  • Only healthy nails can be artificially lengthened. The presence of fungal infections is a contraindication to the procedure.
  • The nail plates suffer from such an aggressive effect. To improve their condition and strengthen it, it is advisable to drink a course of vitamins and include calcium-fortified foods in the diet. The nails should rest, so it is better to periodically refuse to build up.

Advice! Acetone, which is part of the nail polish remover, dries out the nail plate in autumn, but it removes the old polish more efficiently and faster.

Gel is a light-curing material. It hardens when exposed to ultraviolet rays. There are two types of gel - modeling and strengthening. The latter allows you to make your own nails stronger.

Gel nail extension can be single-phase and three-phase. Manicurists prefer three-phase.

The obvious advantage of the gel technology is the absence of extraneous chemical odors during the procedure, which is suitable for people with a heightened sense of smell. In terms of strength, the acrylic coating outperforms the gel coating, however, under the acrylic, the nails practically do not breathe.

Gel nails are ideal for women who prefer medium length natural nails. The gel slightly thickens the plate, so the artificial nail looks natural and organic. If you prefer an impressive length, then opt for acrylic.

The main disadvantage of the gel is its removal by cutting, which negatively affects your own nails. Careful removal requires a certain skill; not every master will remove the gel coating without harming it. The correction is carried out in about three weeks, if your nails grow slowly, then a month will be enough.

Advice! If you have a thin skin and a poor cuticle, then it is better to do a European unedged manicure, as it is less traumatic.


Working with nail tips is ideal for amateurs and those who are making their debut in independent nail extension. Building nails at home using tips takes a little time. Below are photos that allow you to see with your own eyes all the stages. Step by step nail extension:

  • We carefully treat our hands with an antiseptic. Let the antiseptic dry completely.
  • Move the cuticle with an orange stick, if the cuticle is overgrown, then cut it off with tweezers.
  • We take the file and file the nails. The nail plate should follow the shape of the tips.
  • We grind it with a buff, it will make the nail matte and slightly rough.
  • Re-disinfect your hands.
  • Use a cotton pad or napkin to remove any antiseptic residues and dust.
  • The size of the tips is selected individually for each nail.
  • A little glue is added to the groove of the tips. He is pressed for ten seconds. Excess glue must be removed.
  • With tweezers we give the desired length, and the shape - with the help of a nail file. The shape depends on personal taste: square, almond-shaped, pike, stipe, oval, etc.
  • Once again we go over the nail with a polishing bar.
  • It is advisable to brush off the remaining dust with a brush.
  • The own nail is covered with a primer. The primer should be allowed to dry.
  • Next, apply the gel coat evenly to the surface of the nail. Try to keep the material away from your skin.
  • We place the hand in an ultraviolet lamp for three minutes.
  • We repeat the procedure and dry again.
  • Remove the sticky layer with a special liquid. It is preferable to use lint-free wipes as they do not leave marks.
  • Use a degreaser and topcoat. Turn on the UV lamp again for three minutes and remove the sticky layer.
  • It is recommended to treat the skin around the nail bed with oil or cream.

Step-by-step gel nail extension is demonstrated by professional nail art masters. They shoot training videos and post them on popular video hosting sites. Detailed instructions for gel nail extension are suitable for beginners.

Advice! When cleaning, wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from the aggressive effects of household chemicals.

Gel nail extension with upper forms

Forms nail extensions are an economical way to make your nails longer. Forms are made durable and of high quality. One shape allows you to grow nails up to forty times, so a pack of one hundred pieces will last for several years. The success of the procedure is guaranteed if a certain sequence is followed. Step-by-step gel nail extension looks like this:

  • Manicure accessories and hands are disinfected with an antiseptic.
  • Use a degreasing liquid.
  • Brittle and flaking nails are coated with an ultra-special primer, which ensures high-quality adhesion of materials.
  • The shape should be the same size as the plate.
  • The base gel coat is applied in a very thin layer and placed in the lamp for 60 seconds.
  • The sculpting gel is applied to the inner surface. Within fifteen seconds, it is dried in a UV lamp. The procedure is repeated.
  • The sculpting gel is applied to the area around the cuticle. The template is applied to the nail at an angle of forty degrees. You must act carefully, the movements must be smooth.
  • Hold the top mold under a UV lamp for 60 seconds. Do not remove it, just lower it and hold it for at least 3 minutes. It can be easily removed when the hardening process is complete.
  • Remove the sticky layer with a special tool.
  • The final touch will be the nail design. High-quality and detailed lessons of nail extension and their design can be found in our heading.

Advice! At least on vacation, stop using varnishes.

Extension of nails on forms with gel (lower)

The nail extension technology has something in common with the previous one, but in this case, the formation of an S-shaped bend is not required. The nail plate comes out flat and smooth. A flawless manicure will be obtained after 2-3 procedures and will not differ from a salon one. Building stages include:

  • Disinfection of instruments and skin.
  • Cuticle displacement.
  • Sawing off a glossy top layer, sanding, filing a free edge.
  • Cutting off the hardened skin around the nail bed, if necessary.
  • Coating the nail plate with a primer.
  • The shape is fixed under the free edge. The result of the work depends on its correct location. The template is slightly folded into a semicircular shape.
  • The sculpting gel is distributed in the center of the mold and cured under the lamp.
  • Flaws and shortcomings are corrected by a buff.

For greater clarity, it is advisable to watch a video in which the nail service masters show how to build nails on the lower forms.

When the question arises of how to build up nails, gel or acrylic, you always need to weigh the pros and cons. The gel nail extension technique has a great advantage in this regard.

Unlike acrylic, the nail underneath it breathes freely, and thanks to this extension, your own nails can become stronger and stronger. In addition, unlike acrylic, the gel does not have a strong unpleasant odor (it does not have one at all), so the procedure will be absolutely pleasant.

The step-by-step instruction helps to provide gel nail extension correctly.

Usually, the process begins with the determination of the method of building up - using a form or tips. Forms for nail extension are special plates made, as a rule, of plastic or foil, in the middle of which there is a hole in the shape of a nail. Such a plate is put on the finger, and a layer of gel is applied to the hole, that is, on the nail itself.

The second step involves drying the gel in an ultraviolet lamp, and only then is the auxiliary form removed.

In the next step, all that remains is to grind the nail and give it the desired shape.

As for the tips, it works exactly the opposite - if in the form the gel is poured through the hole onto the nail, then the tips are the extended nails. They are applied to native nails, glued and aligned. After that, the marigolds are filed, and covered with gel on top for better strength and a natural look.

It is important to note

Do not confuse nail extension with ordinary false nails - just stick them and give a well-groomed, neat look, as with false nails, will not work.

After this part of the procedure has been completed, you can arrange the extended nails with a pattern. Since the gel is a very resistant material, the manicure will last for a long time. It is important to take this into account when choosing a decor. It is better that it be neutral and can harmoniously complement any image.

The step-by-step instruction for gel nail extension ends with the application of a finishing agent that allows you to securely fix the result. After that, the nails are dried for the last time in an ultraviolet lamp. An important point is moisturizing the cuticle. After hygienic treatment and attack with ultraviolet rays, it is necessary to lubricate the skin around the nails and cuticles with cosmetic oil or a very nourishing cream to replenish its balance.

The main advantages of this method: it is absolutely safe for health and is not only painless, but also very pleasant. Regardless of whether the extension was performed on tips or on the form - thanks to the gel, they look natural and do not cause any discomfort.

The main stages of gel nail extension

For a woman's nails to really become her decoration, they need constant care. And if we are talking about artificial lengthening of nails, then the best solution in this case would be to trust the master, preferably the one whose work is already known from colleagues or friends.

Do not worry that the stages of gel nail extension will be too complicated.

After several visits to the salon, it seems that you can learn all this easily and simply.

  • Training... The sequence of gel nail extension practically does not depend on what will be chosen, tips or shapes. The first and one of the most important steps is the preparation of natural nails for extension. This requires a hygienic manicure, also often referred to as “cleaning,” and hand disinfection.
  • Primer treatment... Then a primer is applied to the cleaned nails - a special tool that provides the best adhesion between the natural nail and the material (gel) with which it will grow.
  • Gel application... Direct application of the gel. The gel nail extension technique at this stage can be carried out in two ways, which were already mentioned above. There is also camouflage gel for nail extension - it is stronger than usual and is used on very weak own nails, as well as on uneven nail plates.
  • Fileing the nail... After the nails have been extended, they need to be sanded and, if necessary, corrected.
  • Nail decoration... At this stage, you can draw, paint and decorate the extended marigolds in other ways.
  • Fixing the result... The stages of gel nail extension are completed by the application of a topcoat, which is also dried under an ultraviolet lamp, which ensures fast and durable fixation.

Gel nail extension technology step by step at home

The technology of gel nail extension at home in stages is no different from that which is carried out even in the most expensive beauty salons.

Armed with molds or tips for building, as well as an ultraviolet lamp, you can make a wonderful manicure at home.

How to build nails? You just need to follow all the steps described above.

There are only a few subtleties to consider.

Firstly, observing the sequence of gel nail extension, each next applied layer should be dried well with a UV lamp, regardless of the extension method, due to which the nail will be strong and will last for a long time.

Secondly, do not raise the extended nail too close to the cuticle. This can hurt the skin itself, it is very sensitive there. Correction sooner or later will have to be done anyway.

Thirdly, after filing the nail and giving it the desired shape, it is necessary to apply another thin layer of gel. This is done in order to consolidate the resulting result (this is not a topcoat, it is applied separately). By filing a nail, you can slightly violate the integrity of its structure, and a thin layer of gel after completing all the manipulations can correct the situation without any damage.

At first, it may seem that nail extension at home is too difficult to do, because you need to have a lot of funds and good skills. However, in reality, all this is a matter of practice. The procedure for building nails with gel at home is exactly the same as in a beauty salon, so, having figured out the stages and sequence of this procedure, it will not be so difficult to do it yourself.

At the end of the twentieth century, extended nails were a curiosity. Today for girls, nail extension is a familiar cosmetic procedure. In this article I will tell you how to build nails at home with gel, silk and acrylic.

According to women, it is convenient and sometimes necessary. There are often cases when there is no time for a manicure or nails, due to their high fragility, do not grow. Build-up helps solve problems.

There are also disadvantages to building up. It negatively affects the condition of natural nails. It is impossible not to note the cost of the procedure, the calculation of which takes into account the work of the master, depreciation of equipment and consumables. Fortunately, you can put your nails in order at home, saving time and money. And with experience, an excellent result is obtained, which is not inferior to a salon analogue.

Women have been building their nails since the second half of the last century. For half a century, the cosmetic procedure has become indispensable for women seeking to lengthen their nails or correct defects. At the initial stage, they were built up with the help of acrylic, now the gel is popular.

Extended nails have any shape and help you get the perfect manicure. They are beautiful, durable and protect natural nails from mechanical damage. On the vast surface of the extended nails, skilled craftsmen demonstrate their own art.

Many young ladies consider house building to be a costly exercise. This is partly true, because buying a set of tools is not cheap. If you do not have the necessary amount, I advise you to cooperate with your girlfriends and purchase a set for the company. Spend less money and you will be able to exchange not only tools, but also the experience gained during work, which is important.

How to build up nails with gel at home - step by step instructions

The gel is suitable for beginners for building, because it has one remarkable quality: when hardened, it evens out and removes minor blemishes. Despite the loyalty to the lack of experience, the tool needs careful handling.

  • The first step is to prepare your workplace. A regular table will do. An ultraviolet lamp can be freely installed on it, and there is enough space for manipulation.
  • The main thing is that there is an outlet near the table, and direct sunlight does not fall on the surface. The gel quickly hardens under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and in daylight the speed of hardening will not allow the formation of marigolds.
  • Prepare natural nails before starting the procedure. Cut them carefully and use a nail file to shape and length. Remove the cuticles and sand the surface with a block. After carrying out these manipulations, remove pollen from cutting with a napkin or brush.
  • The next step involves degreasing. If this is not done, the gel will not adhere well to the nail plates and peel off. Use a special product. It is called primer by artisans because it provides preliminary preparation.
  • Attach a mold to the prepared nail, which should fit under the edge of the nail plate. To fix it, wrap the free edges with adhesive around the pad and press lightly. The form for building is made in such a way that even a beginner can determine the correct position. The main thing is that there are no holes.

The foil template ensures the length and shape of the nail and the correct position. If installed incorrectly, extended nails will protrude to the side. Check the position of the mold on top and in profile.

  • Once the template is in place, start applying the gel using a small brush. As a result, the nail plate should be covered with a continuous, even layer. Then turn on the lamp and dry the applied gel under violet rays for 30 seconds. Do not use a hair dryer.
  • Then take the brush again and continue shaping the nail. Extend it according to the template, guided by the length indicator. Use the mesh to make the nails the same length. Then again hold it under the lamp for about a minute to fully fix the gel. When the extended nail becomes hard, remove the template from under it. It is disposable and will no longer be required.
  • Use a nail file to smooth out any irregularities and correct the length. Perform this procedure immediately or after all nails have been extended. The second option is preferable because it allows you to achieve symmetry.
  • I advise you to paint, paint or decorate extended nails. To achieve the effect, masters perform decoration from several types of multi-colored gel. At home, limit yourself to standard staining.

Step-by-step video instruction

With a good tool, home gel extensions are a doable task. If the technology is observed, the extended nails hold well, but after a few weeks there will be a need for correction, which is due to the growth of natural nails and the displacement of the gel layer. This is not difficult to do. Ultimately, extended nails in combination with a hairstyle will make the image unique.

How to build up nails without gel - silk build-up

Silk build-up also helps to get beautiful marigolds. This technology provides a more natural looking result. Natural nails receive minimal damage. Silk extensions are based on the use of small pieces of silk, fiberglass or rayon.

The cosmetic procedure is performed by the masters, since novices, due to a lack of experience during building, choose an overly aggressive approach to nail treatment or overdo it with the amount of adhesive.

Silk is a light and thin material that is ideal for brittle and weakened nail plates. Its use does not prevent natural nails from breathing, which cannot be said about gel or acrylic.

Due to its high fragility, silk is not suitable for girls who go in for sports or do manual work. In all other cases, silk extensions are an excellent option.

Advantages and disadvantages of silk nail extension

Silk extensions have advantages, including: low operating costs, excellent repair qualities, minimal harm to natural nails. Silk nails look natural and realistic. For comparison, using acrylic to achieve such a result is problematic. Search the Internet for photographs of finished works and compare the results. The difference is noticeable.

Not devoid of silk build-up and flaws. We are talking about low strength and short-term results. Silk nails last no longer than a week.

If you decide to build up your nails with silk, I advise you to do it in the salon, which minimizes the likelihood of damage to natural marigolds. Otherwise, it will take a long time to carry out the operation at home.

  1. First of all, thoroughly clean natural nails, degrease and polish so that the material adheres well to the nail plate. After the marigold, cover with a layer of special adhesive.
  2. Place a piece of silk fabric over the glue that matches the length and shape of the nails you want. Using an orange stick, gently smooth the silk and remove the excess with a nail scissors.
  3. Apply a layer of Activator Gel. Once the finish is dry, sand and varnish if desired. But many beauties refuse to use decorative means, preferring "clean" silk nails.

If you strive to temporarily cover the damaged nail plate with the help of silk extensions, I do not advise using varnish. As a result, the damaged marigold will be able to grow unhindered, and you will be able to track growth and, if necessary, make adjustments. Below you will find a video that will reveal the secrets and subtleties of silk extensions.

Video instruction

How to build up nails with acrylic

Any beauty salon will offer acrylic extension services. The masters will make the nails beautiful and well-groomed, and thanks to the author's design, they will also make them unique. This kind of procedure can also be carried out at home.

Acrylic build-up helps to increase the length of nails in an apartment and apply a beautiful pattern to the surface. But despite the low complexity of the procedure, you cannot do without preparation and tools.

Carrying out a cosmetic procedure provides for a comfortable workspace. All activities and manipulations are conveniently carried out on a spacious table. This work surface is sufficient for placing tools and lamp installation.

  1. Wash your hands and treat with an alcohol solution. Remember, acrylic build-up is carried out only on a degreased surface.
  2. Using an orange stick, remove the cuticle. If this is not done, it will cause a lot of inconvenience, and the nails will turn out to be sloppy.
  3. Use nail files to process the surface of the nail and remove the shine. The technology under consideration provides for work with a rough surface. During the processing of the nail plate, act carefully, otherwise damage it.
  4. Glue the molds on short nails and press down so that there are no voids. If you are performing a cosmetic procedure for the first time, I advise you to make nails that are half a centimeter longer than natural ones.
  5. File the surface of the plastic template to form the desired shape. Next, cover the surface of natural marigolds with a degreasing agent and wait until it dries.
  6. The next step involves working with a brush and acrylic powder. Soak a brush in a monomer, and then make acrylic lumps out of powder. Make small strokes using pressure.
  7. Spread the lump over the plate to get a film, the thickness of which should increase towards the edge of the nail. The extended nail at the tip should be thicker than above the natural one.
  8. The next step is to smooth the acrylic nails with a brush and monomer. Don't forget, there will be a design on this surface later.
  9. After drying, file and polish. It remains with the help of varnish to apply an image to the surface. Under the influence of ultraviolet light, acrylic nails turn yellow. Therefore, protect them from such radiation.

Using the instructions above, you can grow marigolds without any problems without the help of a master. During the creation of the design, you will need a classic manicure set and varnish in several colors. Just remember, acrylic does not like decorative products that contain acetone, as this substance destroys its structure.

Is it possible for pregnant women to extend their nails

A woman always strives to look unsurpassed and the period of bearing a baby is no exception. By and large, this cosmetic procedure during pregnancy is harmless. There are chemical compounds in building materials that theoretically can harm an unborn child, but their concentration is not enough for this.

Pregnant women are not prohibited from performing the procedure using quality materials. They should not contain methyl methacrylate, a substance that is prohibited in America and Europe. At high concentration, it leads to serious disruptions in the development of the fetus. At the same time, Korean and Chinese manufacturers still use it.

Pregnancy is a crucial period. Therefore, I advise you to carry out the procedure in a room with ventilation. Use all kinds of antiseptics. During the procedure, I recommend that the expectant mother be in a medical mask, and after completion, wash her hands and rinse her nose.

  1. During pregnancy, it is not forbidden to use a gel for building. It does not have a strong odor, but it evaporates during hardening. Before admission to the hospital, be sure to remove the extended nails, since doctors will examine the nail plates.
  2. As for acrylic, it is characterized by a pungent odor. Therefore, building should be carried out in conditions of enhanced ventilation. Otherwise, breathe in the fumes, which will not benefit either you or the unborn child.

During pregnancy, the structure of the nails under the influence of hormones changes. As a result, the girl's nail plates become brittle or strong. As for the extended nails, they do not adhere well and are easily rejected.

I do not advise you to build up during this interesting period and wait with beauty until better times. Nail dust is highly irritating to the nasal mucosa and leads to an allergic reaction. Due to calcium deficiency, natural nails become brittle, which once again proves the undesirability of the procedure.

Extension nails care

Leaving is uncomplicated. Visit a beauty salon periodically and make corrections. The master will easily and quickly correct the length and apply the material to the part that has grown.

Take care of your extended nails yourself between visits to the salon. It’s easy if you follow the generally accepted rules.

  1. If there is no acetone-free nail polish remover in your arsenal, be sure to buy it. Acetone is a solvent that can spoil the appearance of extended marigolds.
  2. Wear rubber gloves when using aggressive detergents. They will protect the nail plates and the skin of the hands from the harmful effects of chemistry.
  3. Often, in between visits to the salon, it becomes necessary to process the edges of the nails. Files used with natural nails will not work due to their high softness. We need files with low abrasive characteristics.
  4. Artificial ones seem to be durable, but this does not mean that they cannot be broken. I do not advise you to pinch, crush or gnaw them. By damaging the built-up plate, you will provide a natural nail with a lot of trouble.
  5. The materials used for building are not friendly with high temperatures, the effect of which leads to the appearance of cracks and yellowness. This does not mean that you need to give up the sauna or solarium. The main thing is not to expose them to sudden changes in temperature.
  6. After extension, the cuticle grows more slowly. Sometimes you need to remove it yourself. It is better not to resort to the mechanical method, damage the nail. Buy a dedicated cuticle remover. Apply it to the skin that is adjacent to the nail, wait a little, and then move it off with a wooden stick.
  7. Moisturize the skin around your nails with oils regularly. Penetrating deeper, they nourish the nail plate and improve growth.

Advice on length, style and design of manicure changes from season to season, but fashion trends always favor well-groomed and beautiful hands. Unfortunately, nature has not awarded every woman with perfect nails. Extension will help to hide imperfections in manicure, improve the appearance of nails and increase self-confidence.

The most popular materials for this procedure are acrylic and gel.

Gel extensions make the handles look more natural.

The acrylic method assumes a thick and dense coating, and the gel is applied in a very thin layer, and at the same time the nail looks as natural as possible. In addition, acrylic sometimes causes an allergic reaction.

At master classes and exhibitions, the arched method of modeling is most often demonstrated. With the help of this technology, everything looks natural and elegant. To create this effect, use special clips that give the nail a perfect bend in the form of an arch. This is a very painstaking work, it is difficult for beginners to complete it.

Gel build-up can be done at home on your own. For best results, it is important to follow certain rules and proceed in stages.

It is worth considering carefully the preparation of the procedure, that is, the acquisition of the necessary materials.

  1. First you need to choose the right gel. It can be single-phase, two-phase and three-phase. The first is best for beginners at home. High-quality modern material does not have a pungent odor, and its consistency should not be too liquid, or, conversely, too thick. It will be more convenient to apply it to the nails, it does not spread. The cost starts from 200 rubles for 15 grams.
  2. Gel will not solidify without an ultraviolet lamp. No need to chase after design or additional features, a simple lamp for home use will suffice. You can buy it at a price of 1000 rubles.
  3. Professional degreasers can replace plain rubbing alcohol.
  4. You will need a primer to improve the adhesion between your nail and the artificial turf. The cost is about 300 rubles.
  5. Brushes for applying gel, a variety of nail files and other important little things are sold in every store with professional cosmetics. For the first few times of self-building, you won't need a lot of them. There should be several files, with different grinding surfaces, including special polishing sticks.
  6. Dust brushes or lint-free cloths.
  7. The question that interests beginners is how to properly make extensions so that the length of the nails and their appearance are perfect. For this, tips or forms are used.

What to choose - tips or forms for building

Tips are made of plastic. Working with them requires a certain skill, because the tips must be cut off at the point of contact with the nail plate and on the sides to the desired size. With this procedure, your nail is also actively sawed off and undergoes significant damage.

Build-up on forms is much easier than on tips.

The mold is most often a paper template on which the gel is subsequently applied. It is easy to cut to fit any nail. They are divided into upper and lower, depending on where they are attached. Top molds are preferred.

A roll of disposable forms costs from 200 rubles. You can replace finished products with thick foil if there are no forms at hand.

A video will clearly show how to use forms for nail extension, where you will learn how to put nail extension forms under a classic square.

How you can build up nails using forms

In the nails industry today, there are a huge number of different options for nail manicure.

Please note that the choice of the form for building up should be carried out depending on the structure of the natural nail, fingers and palm as a whole.

Below is a list of popular forms of nails for building and how to choose a shape for yourself.

  • Oval shape

Suitable for almost everyone, with the exception of those with short fingers and wide nails. To achieve an oval shape is simple - you need to round off the tips, repeating the lines of their base. The oval is considered a classic.

  • Clear square

Large hands with wide nails will work well with a crisp, square shape. The corners of the square should not be too sharp, otherwise the finished manicure will not be durable.

  • Soft square

This shape fits all nails and is the most comfortable. You need to cut your nails into a square, and round off the tips. The length can be any.

  • Round form

The nail is cut along the natural curve of the toe and softens in the corners. This form is suitable for owners of weak and brittle nails, as well as those who work a lot with their hands.

  • Oval square

An intermediate option between an oval and a square is the rounded tip of a square with corners at the edges. Visually helps to stretch the palm, suitable for thick fingers.

  • Almond nails

These look great on thin fingers with narrow nails. To round off the nail under this shape should be immediately from the growth line. The main thing is not to overdo it with the length.

  • Pointed

This shape is very similar to the previous one, only the tip of the nail is not rounded, but sharp. It is quite difficult to walk with such a triangular manicure every day. Not suitable for large hands.

  • Stiletto shape

Very long pointed nails are called stilettos. Such a design is preferred by bold and daring natures.

  • Pipe nail shape

Favorite shape for many. Very feminine and neat. The pipe has straight edges and a rounded tip, like in an almond shape.

  • Beveled

In another way, it is called the form of lipstick. The cut end of the marigold at an angle of 45 degrees looks very extravagant. Slices can be directed in different directions.

  • Beveled curled nails

One of the most unusual shapes. Difficult to create. Suitable for themed events and parties. Too pretentious for office work.

  • Age nail shape

From a distance it may appear that these are stiletto nails, only the tip is an angle. It is rarely used in everyday life, but manicurists love to use this form as an example of their creativity.

  • Trapezoidal shape

This form is becoming very popular. When building, the edge of the nail becomes wider than its base, creating the appearance of a trapezoid. This design is sometimes referred to as "duck feet".

  • Ballerina nail shape

The name of this style comes from its external similarity with ballet pointe shoes. The edges of the nail are processed as in the almond shape, and the edge as in the square.

How to extend nails on forms - extension technology at home

The gel extension procedure should be carried out only on healthy nails, without damage, burrs and fungus. Clearly following the instructions - building nails at home will not be difficult.

Building stages:

  1. Prepare the workplace. An ordinary table will do, the main thing is that direct sunlight does not fall on it, otherwise the gel will harden too quickly, which will affect the quality of the work results. There should be a socket for an ultraviolet lamp near the table.
  2. Treat your hands with any antiseptic.
  3. Trim or push back the cuticle. Give nails a maximum length of 2 millimeters. Too short nails will not allow you to properly attach the shape.
  4. Run the file over the surface of the nail so that it becomes slightly rough. The gel will not lie tightly on a smooth nail, and then detachment and air ingress are possible.
  5. Remove dust from the nail with a tissue or brush.
  6. Degrease your nails, apply a primer.
  7. Place the mold for modeling nails under the edge of the nail plate, fix it. Check for gaps.
  8. Cover the nail with gel with a continuous, even layer. You should start from the center. Apply a drop of material and spread it to the sides. Try to make sure that most of the gel is in the middle of the nail. This will not make it look flat.
  9. Give the nail the desired shape.
  10. Dry for 30 seconds under a lamp.
  11. Apply the gel again, achieve the desired length according to the divisions on the form.
  12. Dry under the lamp for about a minute until completely cured.
  13. Remove the paper blank from under the nail.
  14. Use a file to smooth out irregularities and correct the length.
  15. Apply varnish, create a design, and enjoy the result.

The video below shows how to quickly and easily build nails at home.

Fashion trends every season offer more and more options for staining nails, new unusual materials are used. Once a classic jacket, it has now become one of the ways to stand out in the crowd.

There are color gels on sale for creating a French manicure. After building up in this way, it will be enough just to cover the nails with transparent varnish or add sparkles.

How to care for extended nails at home

It usually takes about three weeks between corrections. The first correction should be done after two.

To protect marigolds, there are a number of simple recommendations.

  • Refuse to remove nail polish with acetone.
  • Use rubber gloves when cleaning and washing dishes using detergents.
  • Do not expose your hands to temperature extremes. The building material used may turn yellow and crack.
  • Apply special oils to moisturize the nail plate and cuticle.

If you follow all the rules and instructions, prepare and approach the matter thoughtfully, then at home you can do a beautiful manicure with nail extension, you do not have to go to the salons to the specialists. The technology of using the gel allows you to correct all natural defects, and if you try, the artificial nails will look like natural.

Everything in a person should be beautiful: soul, thoughts, and even nails. A well-made manicure with a perfect finish serves as a decoration for every girl.

Strengthening natural nails with gel: a feature of the procedure

But what to do if nature has deprived of a beautiful shape of nails, because of their fragility, it is difficult to grow at least a small length, but you do not want to do extensions? Coating nails with gel without building up will come to the rescue.

It will help to grow the desired length and, if necessary, slightly adjust the shape of the natural nail. Very often, girls confuse nail strengthening with gel with helium extension. However, in fact, they have only one similarity: both the one and the other procedure helps to make the nails beautiful and well-groomed.

The differences between them are significant:

  • with nail extension lengthening of the nail bed occurs and a change in the shape of the natural nail is possible, while with conventional strengthening it is impossible to increase the length of the nail;
  • when covering nails with gel without building-up, a small amount of material is applied to the natural nail, which means that there is no thinning and weakening of your own nails;
  • strengthening of nails with gel helps to improve the condition of the nail, reduce its fragility and prevent plate delamination.

Gel nail strengthening is an excellent option for those who do not want to resort to extensions, but want to have long and beautiful nails.

Advantages and disadvantages of nail gel coating

The advantages of helium nail strengthening include:


Despite all the advantages, the disadvantages of this procedure are enough:

  • The need for regular correction... When the nail grows back, the border between the natural nail and the hardened gel becomes noticeable. The frequency of correction depends on the rate of nail growth, on average it is 1 time in 2-3 weeks.
  • Duration of the procedure... When the nails are coated with gel in the salon, the procedure takes from 1 to 1.5 hours by a manicure master; with self-strengthening, the duration increases by at least 2 or more times.

What is better to use gel or biogel to strengthen nails

To determine what is best for strengthening nails, first you need to figure out how these two materials differ. The gel is a synthetic glass-like polymer that hardens when polymerized in a UV lamp.

Biogelit is a rubber-based polymer, which is a very elastic material.

Coating type Dignity Flaws
Gel nail strengthening1. Nails covered with gel, even without extensions, are very strong.

2. The gel allows you to build up any length.

3. Duration of wearing is about 3 weeks.

4. Regrown nails can be corrected without completely removing the old material.

1. Using the gel requires washing down the natural nail before coating.

2. The thickness of the artificial or strengthened nail is much greater than that of the one covered with biogel.

3. Nails lose their elasticity, as a result of which they are prone to chips and cracks.

4. It is not soaked with special liquids, the material is removed by cutting (the exception is gels with the soak-off formula).

Coating nails with biogel1. Nails coated with biogel are much more elastic, bend easily and are less prone to chipping.

2. It has a positive effect on the natural nail plate.

3. Does not need to wash down the natural nail before coating.

4. Easily removed by soaking in a special liquid.

5. Does not require a large layer thickness during application.

1. Relatively short duration of wearing (no more than 2 weeks).

2. Impossibility of correction without removing the old material.

3. It is necessary to avoid contact of nails strengthened with biogel with acetone-containing liquids and alcohols.

Thus, for those who do not want to lengthen the nail plate, but want to strengthen natural nails, biogel will be the ideal material. It will cause the least harm to the nails and give them a beautiful and well-groomed look.

Materials and tools needed to strengthen nails with gel

To cover your nails with gel, you will need the following materials:


There are several types of gels: single-phase and three-phase. In the case of a single-phase gel, only one gel is needed, in the case of a three-phase gel, a base and topcoat are also required.

Be careful: when carrying out the procedure for covering nails with gel without building up in the salon, it is imperative to check that all the tools that will be used to produce the edged manicure are sterilized, since there is a high risk of infection with a non-sterile instrument.

Coating nails with gel without extensions: step-by-step instructions at home

Covering nails with gel without building up at home is not so difficult to carry out. It is only necessary to follow the correct sequence of all actions and fill your hand a little in order to reduce the time spent on the procedure.


It's important to know: if the gel does not dry out, the lamps must be replaced. When using led gels, they can be dried in a led lamp, then the polymerization time will be reduced to 30 seconds.

  1. Application of the gel. Application rules are the same, each layer is dried in a lamp for 2 minutes.
  2. If you need to perform any design, you need to remove the sticky layer from the gel and cover the nails with gel polish or decorate them with decorative elements.
  3. Application top-end coverage.
  4. Removing the sticky layer... This is not necessary when using a top without a sticky layer.

Design ideas for gel nail polish

One of the most common designs for gel nail polishing is French manicure. This option is versatile, it will suit any look and style. In addition, with the regrowth of a natural nail, the transition will not be noticeable for much longer.

It will be interesting to look at a manicure made with monochromatic gel polishes with any design on the nails of the ring fingers.

Recently, a variety of nail pigments and mirror polishes have begun to gain popularity, with which nails look like they are covered with metal.

The ombre design or gradient does not lose demand, in which the nail is covered with two contrasting or, conversely, similar colors, and the border between them is shaded.

How long does nail gel cover last?

The durability of the gel coat depends on the material used to strengthen it. If a simple gel, then such a coating will last at least 3 weeks, after which a correction will be needed. However, this is more likely due not to the fact that the coating will deteriorate, but to the fact that the grown nails look very unaesthetic. When using biogel, the coating lasts about 2 weeks.

Note! In addition to the type of material used to coat the material, the following factors affect the durability of a helium coating:

  • insufficient preparation of the nail plate;
  • insufficient polymerization time of the gel in the uv lamp;
  • contact with chemicals such as detergents and disinfectants and acetone-containing liquids without gloves.

In order for extended or gel-coated nails to retain their original appearance as long as possible, it is recommended that all household work be done with gloves.

Strengthening nails with gel: price in the salon

The cost of covering nails with gel without building up in salons is different, but if we take the average amount, then it will be about 1000 rubles or more. The final amount will depend on the chosen coating, the complexity and amount of the design performed, as well as the popularity of a particular salon and manicurist.

It should be remembered that you do not need to save on such things, as this can lead to the fact that a cheaper master will ruin the nails or introduce any infection while performing a manicure with an untreated instrument.

Useful tips from experts: how to properly strengthen nails with gel

  1. In order to avoid detachment, do not use moisturizers or oils a few hours before gel coating.
  2. To keep the coating as long as possible, the manicure should be done dry, without soaking. If you need to steam your hands before a manicure, then it is best to cover the next day.
  3. In order for the nail plate to be perfectly flat, additional leveling can be done with a rubber base.
  4. For perfect coverage, it is necessary to remove pterygium from the surface of the nail as thoroughly as possible.
  5. Do not allow base leaks on the cuticle and lateral ridges, this will lead to the exfoliation of the gel.
  6. It is imperative to seal the end of the nail at all stages of the application of the material to avoid chipping.

The gel coating allows you to keep the nails in order, giving them an aesthetic look. Moreover, their strengthening can be done not only in the salon, but also at home, having previously stocked up with all the necessary materials.

Covering nails with gel without extension: useful video

Coating nails with gel at home without building up in this video:

White jacket at home. Coating nails with gel without building up in this video: