How do I create nail extensions with Builder Gel? (Builder Gel Extensions 101)Updated 7 days ago
Here's how to extend your nails with builder gel polish - no glue or tips needed, just natural-looking length.
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. Wipe each nail with a prep pad to dehydrate your nails.
Nail forms: Our patent-pending Easy Fit Nail Forms come in 3 sizes with custom perforations to create your best fit. To find the right size, slide the form onto your finger so the edge sits underneath the tip of your natural nail - it should be snug with no gaps around the corners. If there's still a slight gap, pop off the perforated edge for a tighter fit.
To put on the form: peel away the paper backing, press and stick the "1"s together (don't close the tip yet), slide your finger under the form so the tip of your nail is snug against the top and centered, then press the "3"s together and pinch along the line to secure the form to your finger, making sure it's tight and level with no gaps. Fold along the "4" so you can lay your finger flat.
Extend: With nail forms on, apply a thin even layer of Builder Gel Polish to your natural nail and over the form to your desired length - this "slip layer" acts as a guide for the next bead of gel and should remain wet (don't cure it yet). Apply a small bead of gel (about the size of a small pea) on top of the slip layer and use windshield wiper motions to swipe and extend it down your nail and the form to your desired length. Flip your nail over to let gravity build the apex, then use the liner brush to smooth the surface and fix any imperfections. Clean up any stray gel before curing to avoid early lifting, chipping, and a gel allergy. Long press the lamp button and slowly insert your hand, curing for 2 minutes. Heat spikes can happen in the first 5-10 seconds - slide your hand out and reinsert slowly if needed. Don't worry if the shape isn't perfect while building - you'll shape and perfect it later.
Support: Gently remove the nail form by pinching underneath it. Apply a second even layer of Builder Gel Polish to the entire nail, clean up any gel on skin before curing, then fully cure your entire hand for 2 minutes. Repeat for your remaining nails.
Shape: Wipe all nails with a prep pad or dip in the Acetone Remover Pot to remove the tacky layer before shaping. Use the 90/10 method - clip 90% into your shape, then file the last 10% for detail and smoothing. Check the side view of your nails and buff away any lumps or bumps.
Top Coat: Wipe all nails with a prep pad, apply Gel Polish Top Coat, and fully cure for 1 minute. Clean up any stray gel top coat before curing.
Need a visual walkthrough? See Olive University: Builder Gel Extensions 101.