How do I apply Builder Gel? (Builder Gel Mani 101)Updated 7 days ago
Here's how to build longer, stronger natural nails at home with Builder Gel using our Builder Gel Kit.
Get started: Lay out all your tools and work on a clean, flat surface. Plug in your lamp before you get started.
Shape + Prep: Lightly shape your nails. Clip 90% of the way into your shape and file the last 10% to get an even starting shape. Push back cuticles and buff your nail plate. Wipe each nail with a prep pad to dehydrate your nails. You can also apply Cuticle Remover from your gel mani system before pushing back cuticles and buffing. The Acetone Remover Pot also works to dehydrate your nails.
Strengthener: Our Builder Gel is formulated to work with our Nail Strengthener to prevent breakage and encourage growth. Apply a thin coat to each nail and let dry completely before following with Builder Gel.
Peel Off Base Coat (optional): For easy acetone-free removal (with slightly shorter wear time), apply a super thin coat of Peel Off Base Coat to the center of your nail, leaving a small border of bare nail around all the edges, including the tip. Let dry for 1-2 minutes; when it's no longer glossy, it's dry. If you're looking for the full up to 21 day wear time, skip the Peel Off Base Coat.
Build: Use Poppy to help you paint like a pro. Apply an even layer of Builder Gel Polish to the entire nail, starting the brush in the center, pushing down to the base of the cuticle, then pulling back to swipe across the nail. Aim for complete coverage in about 3 strokes. Clean up any stray gel before curing to avoid early lifting, chipping, and a gel allergy, using the Clean Up Brush dipped in the Acetone Remover Pot. Pro tip: use the Liner Brush to smooth the curvature of your builder gel before curing.
Cap the free edge: Run the brush along the edge of your nail to create a seal before painting the entire nail, for a salon look and to prevent chips. Cure your entire hand for 2 minutes with a long press of the lamp button. Heat spikes (a warm sensation, more common with thicker coats) can happen in the first 5-10 seconds - if this happens, gently slide your hand out of the lamp, then reinsert slowly to continue curing for 2 minutes.
Top Coat: Apply Gel Polish Top Coat and cure for 1 minute. Remember to clean up any stray gel top coat before curing.
Watch Olive University’s Builder Gel Mani 101 video tutorial for step-by-step instructions.