If you've been thinking of doing your own nails at home, you're in the right place. Gel manicures offer durability, shine, and a chip-resistant finish that can last for weeks. With the right tools and a bit of practice, you can achieve professional-looking results from the comfort of your home.
Here are some basic tools and product to get started on your DIY nail journey with gel:
Nail Prep
When doing your nails, it's important to start with a clean and dry nail plate. To shape and refine your nails use a wooden nail file—ideally one with both medium and fine grit options. A nail buffer is also key for smoothing the surface of the nail and removing any dead skin, which could influence the durability of your gel mani. If you’re planning to stick with a regular nail care routine, investing in a high-quality cuticle nipper is a smart choice for trimming away any loose or overgrown cuticles.
Wood Files
VALLA Wood File
YOGO Wood File
MOSTIVE Nail File
Buffers
YOGO Buffer Block
VALLA Buffer File
Cuticle Nipper
Cutile Remover
Cuticle Pusher
Cuticle Nippers
Base Gel
Before applying your chosen gel polish color, it’s important to start with a layer of base gel. The base coat creates a smooth, even surface and helps the color adhere properly to your natural nails. Traditional base gels require removal with acetone soaking, but if you’re looking for a quicker, mess-free alternative, a peel-off base gel is a great option that allows for easy removal without acetone.
Base Gel
YOGO Zombie Base Gel
Gracia G-Gelly Base Gel
Nailbayo DOI Base Gel
Peel Off Base Gel
Jello Jello One Kill Peel Off Base Set
CREAR Peel Off Base Gel
YOGO Zombie Peel Off Gel
Gel Color
Gel polish comes in a variety of finishes to suit any style. Solid color gels offer bold, pigmented coverage, while syrup gels provide a soft, translucent look. Magnetic gels create eye-catching patterns using a magnet, and glitter gels add sparkle for a fun, festive touch. Whether you're trying out new shades or expanding your collection, you can choose individual colors or invest in a full set for more variety.
| Gel Type | Finish/Effect | Best For | Application Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Color | Bold, vibrant, opaque | Everyday wear, classic looks | Apply in thin, even coats for best coverage. |
| Syrup Gel | Sheer, translucent, soft | Minimalist or natural nail styles | Layer gradually to build desired opacity. |
| Magnetic Gel | Sparkling, dimensional with magnet patterns | Unique, eye-catching nail art | Use a magnet before curing to shape designs. |
| Glitter Gel | Shimmery, sparkling finish | Parties, holidays, or statement nails | Stir before use for even glitter distribution. |
Solid Color Gel
Syrup Gel
Magnetic Gel/Cat Eye
Glitter Gel
Top Gel
Once your color gel polish is applied, finish it off with a top gel to seal in the color and extend the life of your manicure. Depending on the formula, some top gels require a final cleanse with alcohol to remove the sticky layer after curing, while no-wipe top gels skip this step entirely. You can choose between a high-shine glossy finish for a sleek look or a matte top coat for a soft, velvety effect
Glossy Top Gel
DGEL Signature Top Gel
Jello Jello Killing Top Gel
YOGO Zombie Top Gel
Matte Top Gel
VALLA Matte Top Gel
Riposo Matte Top Gel
Bevlah Matte Top Gel
Other Basic Needs
A UV/LED nail lamp is a must-have for gel nails, as each layer—base, color, and top—needs to be cured to harden properly. Base gels usually require 30–60 seconds, while color and top coats typically cure in about 60 seconds.
For precision work, especially when doing nail art, the Mostive Spotlight Pin Lamp is a great option. It’s designed to cure one nail at a time, giving you better control when working on detailed designs. Make sure your lamp emits dual wavelengths (365+405nm) to ensure compatibility with most gels, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for curing times.
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