How to extend gel nails step by step. Pros and cons of gel nail extensions at home. Starter kit for gel nail extensions, where to buy

Long nails can be a dream for some girls. After all, not everyone manages to grow their nail plate to the desired length. Then modern technologies come to the rescue.

They can be of any length, various designs are possible, for example, decoration with rhinestones, bouillons, and patterns.

Gel nails look natural and beautiful, the result lasts for 2-3 weeks, then they gradually grow back along with the nail plate, so correction is needed.

On Russian market You can purchase products from all world manufacturers. Gels are presented as single-phase, two-phase, three-phase.

You should be wary of nameless or unknown products from Chinese manufacturers, which usually do not differ good quality. Although there are exceptions here too.

For extensions under varnish, transparent gels with a natural shade are used. Colored products are also sold french manicure.

The extension procedure is quite simple, so even beginners gain experience quickly.

Some people even cope with it on their own at home without taking courses. Once all the tools and materials are prepared, you can begin.

Gel extensions require special materials:

  1. The first thing you need to purchase is forms. They can be disposable paper or reusable Teflon. Teflon molds have a wire frame and standard sizes and can be reused many times. You can also find transparent forms on sale that better transmit ultraviolet rays. When buying a material from an unknown manufacturer, first try a few pieces to make sure the quality of the adhesive surface, because the form must adhere firmly to the nail while working.
  2. Manicure wipes— used as an alternative to cotton pads. The lint-free material easily removes polish residue and is used for various manicure works.
  3. Can't do without brushes. You need several of them, narrow and wide. During the process, the required size is selected based on the width of the nail bed. In the store when buying brushes Special attention Pay attention to the rigidity of the pile and the reliability of the attachment of the hairs to the base.
  4. Acid-free primer- required when working with gel. If the plate is greasy or damp, an acid primer is needed. It is recommended to use gel and primer from the same manufacturer.
  5. For a three-phase system - base and top.
  6. Directly gel— each master chooses a manufacturer empirically. Over time, an understanding emerges of which material is more convenient to work with.
  7. You will also need a lamp to dry the material.
  8. impossible without an ultraviolet lamp. They differ in parameters such as power and configuration. The more powerful the lamp, the faster the gel hardens. The lamps used in salons have a power of 36 W - this is the optimal indicator for home devices. Nail files and blocks – it’s better to buy a set with files right away to varying degrees rigidity. The free edge is filed with abrasive tools and removed with polishing blocks. natural shine
  9. . The degree of abrasiveness is called grit and is indicated on each instrument. The higher this number, the softer the file. Orange sticks
  10. – a convenient disposable tool for pulling back cuticles. Means for removing the sticky layer - clinser
  11. - will be required after polymerization of the gel. Additionally worth purchasing hand sanitizer

, brush cleaner, cuticle oil.

What does the process of extensions on gel forms look like?

  1. Step-by-step instructions for gel nail extensions on forms:
  2. First stage . We treat our hands with an antiseptic and begin to process the nails. To do this, the excess length is cut off, it is necessary to remove the cuticle (or move it) and the pterygium. Now we go over the nails with a buff, removing the shine, using a broom to remove dust and degrease the plates.
  3. Second phase . Apply acid-free primer. There are primers that dry in air in a minute and dry in a lamp in two minutes. Slightly bent shape - place the stencil on the nail, attach the ears above the finger and at the bottom of the nail. The shape should be a direct continuation of the plate and hold without gaps.
  4. Fourth stage. For example, let's look at a single-color extension. Apply the gel with a brush - start from the center, going down in a zigzag motion, slightly pull the gel towards the cuticle, bring it to nothing near the skin and along the side rollers. Work on the stress area and let your nails dry for a couple of minutes.
  5. Fifth stage. Let's start filing and giving the nails a clear shape. Remove dust with a broom and wipe with a napkin in a cleaner. Now you can apply the top coat and carry out the final drying - three minutes.

Extended French remains quite popular, when the edge of the nail is decorated with white or colored gel, and the base remains natural in color.

French manicure looks stylish and is appropriate in Everyday life, and at a holiday, and when the nail grows, it is less noticeable.

Before you decide to gel nail extension on forms, you should make sure that contraindications to the procedure do not apply to you.

Those who take antibiotics and suffer from allergic reactions should avoid gel materials.

When working with household chemicals You should use protective gloves. If a nail is damaged, it is necessary to make a correction as soon as possible to avoid creases.

In general, correction is required every two to three weeks to keep the nails looking neat and beautiful.

VIDEO ON THE TOPIC

In order to restore the attractiveness of regrown nails appearance, as well as restore shape, resort to a correction procedure.


It consists of removing detachments and filing down the top layer by filing with a nail file, and applying a new layer.

  1. The master begins work by treating his hands with an antiseptic,
  2. Then removes the varnish coating.
  3. Most of the time is spent cutting off the old gel layer. What is important here is the professionalism and accuracy of the craftsman, who must not damage the skin and natural coating in order to avoid the appearance of air bubbles under a new layer.
  4. After removing the remaining gel, a fresh layer is applied, a bend is formed and the regrown part of the nail is covered, polymerized under a lamp and filed to give the desired shape. The process is completed with a top coat or coated design.

Well-groomed hands - business card every lady. , step-by-step instruction which will be discussed further, can be produced not only in the salon, but also at home. Artificial nails can be decorated with fashionable paintings made of multi-colored varnishes and rhinestones.

Gel nail extension technique

Gel is a natural polymer with a porous structure. This material does not harm natural nails. The technology of gel nail extension is simple, but it has its own characteristics, depending on the type of gel.

Gels come in the following types:

  • hardening when exposed to light;
  • light-insensitive.

The first type of material hardens under the influence of ultraviolet rays. To do this, you must have an ultraviolet or halogen lamp. Such gels are odorless, easy to apply and easy to care for. This coating is applied in two layers, keeping each of them under a lamp.

Gels that do not harden under ultraviolet light have a denser structure. Their drying is facilitated by a catalyst - a special substance that creates a chemical reaction.

Gels have the following positive properties:

  • no odor;
  • does not cause redness of the skin;
  • gel coating allows air and light to pass through;
  • this material adheres well to the natural plate;
  • versatility: it can be used for tips, sculpting, French manicure.

Disadvantages of helium material:

  • low strength;
  • instability to temperature changes: cracks appear;
  • defects on helium plates cannot be corrected; nails can only be re-grown.

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Instructions for nail extensions

It is very difficult to carry out the procedure on your own; it is better to work with a professional specialist.

Before learning lessons on artificial nail extensions, you need to examine your hands: there should be no cracks, bruises, or wounds on them.

Gel nail extension technology:

  1. Treat your hands with antiseptic.
  2. Remove the cuticle, as it contributes to the separation of the gel.
  3. Nails should be corrected with a file, holding it at a right angle. This is necessary in order to conveniently attach tips or forms.
  4. Use a hard nail file to polish the nail plate until its surface becomes rough. After this, remove dust and pellets from the surface.
  5. Cover your nails with a base gel that adheres the natural and artificial plates. The surface should be blotted with a napkin to obtain a matte texture, but do not wipe it dry!
  6. Tips are selected that best suit the shape of natural nails and carefully fixed.
  7. Using a special brush, the helium composition is first applied to the artificial plate. Then cover the entire nail from bottom to top, carefully working the sides.
  8. The formed plates are left to dry under a UV lamp for 30 seconds. Do not leave your hands under the light for a long time, since the base should not completely harden. The semi-solid base is given a semicircular shape using pliers, and then the tips are removed.
  9. Using a special brush, apply the construction gel and distribute it evenly along the entire length of the nail. In case of contact with skin, the composition should be removed with a napkin. This layer is kept under the lamp for 1 minute.
  10. The second layer of gel is applied to the top of the nail - the “stress zone”. This part of the plate received this name because this is where the nail most often breaks. Next, let this layer dry under the lamp for 3 minutes. While one nail is drying, you can start processing the second.
  11. Use a medium-hard sapphire file to trim the edge of the nail.
  12. Secure the coating with a special colorless varnish.
  13. Treat the skin around the artificial plates with cosmetic oil.

Marina Ignatieva


Reading time: 12 minutes

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Not every girl can boast of a beautiful manicure, but the entire fairer sex, without exception, dreams of it. In a beauty salon, the extension procedure is known to be quite expensive, but this does not mean that long beautiful nails you can forget - today you can do it yourself, at home. You just need to purchase a set of necessary tools and be patient. So what do you need to know about the procedure?

Pros and cons of gel nail extensions at home

Of course, nail extensions in a salon is a guarantee of quality (with appropriate qualifications of specialists), atmosphere, prestige, and another opportunity for communication. But even a self-conducted procedure has its own advantages:

  • You don't need to travel anywhere ( time saving ). At home, you can do your nails at any time – even in the middle of the night. And there is absolutely no need to sign up anywhere, waste time traveling, etc.
  • You save money (with the exception of a one-time investment in a set of tools for the procedure).
  • At home - much more more comfortable and calmer .
  • Nail art/pattern you can make, based on your imagination .

From disadvantages of performing the procedure at home The following can be noted:

  • Doing your own nail extensions will take away from you at first. at least two hours .
  • Removing gel nails requires skill – without a master it will be difficult.

What should a home gel nail extension kit include?

At the very beginning of training, you should not choose expensive products for gel nail modeling. There are enough drugs of average cost.

Video instruction: What is needed for gel nail extensions at home

So what's included in home nail extension kit?

If you decide to go for French and other designs, you can also buy the following gels:

  • Liquid Ultra White (drawn French).
  • Color (a couple of jars).
  • White (salon French).
  • Camouflage (bodily).

You will also need:

Preparing for home gel nail extensions: basic rules

Preparation consists of several stages, the strict implementation of which will be the key to a quality procedure.

The basis for gel nail extensions is UV gel, which hardens only under the influence of light from an ultraviolet lamp. Using this material you can make your nails long and different shapes. And so we will reveal the secret of gel nail extensions step by step.

Most often, girls extend their nails with gel precisely because:

  • Excellent shape change nail plate
  • Gives the nail surface shine
  • Highly durable
  • No pungent odor

Now you can grow your nails not only in a salon with a specialist, but also at home.

What do you need to do gel nail extensions?

What tools do you need to build gel nails yourself?

Starter set tools for beginners:

  • UV Gel.
  • Primer.
  • Degreasers.
  • Files for natural and artificial nail surfaces (80×80 grit, 180×240 grit, 100×100), buffer for polishing.
  • Gel brushes
  • Forms for extensions
  • Decorative elements (rhinestones, sparkles).
  • lint-free wipes.
  • Ultraviolet lamp

You can assemble such a set partially, or you can purchase the whole set at once. You just need to decide which gel to choose! After all, the strength and quality of extended nails depends on the quality of the extension gel.

Types of gel for nail extensions

  1. According to the type of use, the gel is:
  • UV gel,
  • biogel
  • LED gel.

In order to extend nails with ultraviolet and bio gels you will need a good ultraviolet lamp, for Led gel - an Led lamp.

  1. According to functionality, gels are divided into:
  • Three-phase (three types of gel, each with a specific purpose. First, a base gel for adhesion to the natural nail, then a modeling gel, followed by a finishing gel that will protect the nail from external factors and will give the nail shine and smoothness)

  • two-phase (first, applying a connecting gel and to fix the gel on the nail plate, and the second type is responsible for the nail shape)
  • single-phase (universal gel that performs all of the above functions at once)

Types of gel nail extensions

There are several ways to do gel nails and both will give your nails a great look without requiring much effort.

You can grow your nails using gel:

  • on forms - a paper form is glued onto your nail plate, onto which the gel is applied and the shape of the future nail is given. Nails extended this way are easier to remove.

  • on tips - a plastic one is glued to your nail, which is given a shape and gel is applied on top of it. This extension is suitable for those nails that are characterized by increased fragility and layering.

Stages of gel nail extension

Nail extension technology can be done at home. The main thing is to maintain consistency in actions.

Here are step-by-step instructions for gel nail extensions with photos:

  1. We prepare the nail (remove cuticles, upper layer The nail is filed down and degreased.). Then we apply a thin layer of primer to remove excess moisture and dry it in a UV lamp for about two minutes.
  2. A mold is placed under the root of the nail plate to give the gel nail its shape.
  3. The gel base layer is applied with a brush. There should be a distance of half a millimeter between the skin and the gel at the edge of the nail. At this stage, we give the gel the desired shape (square, oval, pointed, etc.). Dry it in a lamp.

  1. A layer of modeling gel is applied, but it is thin. If required, it is at this stage that the nail is decorated with rhinestones or a pattern. Dry it in a lamp.
  2. The final layer of gel. Dry in a lamp and remove the sticky layer. Using a file for artificial nails, the shape is brought to the final result.
  3. Polishing buff adds shine to the nail surface.

And so, now it’s clear how to grow your nails at home with your own hands, without the help of a trained nail technician!

In addition to extension gels, there are also gel polishes. Beginners need to know that gel extensions and gel polish coating are two different things. Gel polish simply gives your nail strength and strengthening, protects it from frequent breakage and adds shine. Gel polish does not increase the length of the nail, as this can be done with gel.

Extended nails in the French manicure style are especially popular. Often this decor is done using gel polish. For gel extensions, a special white gel and round shapes are required to give evenness. white gel at the edge of the nail.

Only novice masters will find useful information about the runail website, which provides all the materials for nail extensions and decoration.

Everything is described in detail on the website and examples are given in pictures.

To reinforce the above instructions for gel nail extensions, we offer video lessons that will definitely be beneficial.

Video on the topic of the article:

Tips for manicure length, style and design vary from season to season, but fashion trends always stand for well-groomed and beautiful hands. Unfortunately, not every representative of the fair sex has been blessed by nature perfect nails. Extensions will help hide imperfections in manicure, improve the appearance of nails and increase self-confidence.

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

Gel extensions allow the arms to look more natural.

The acrylic method involves 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, special clips are used that give the nail a perfect arch-like bend. This is very painstaking work, difficult for beginners to complete.

Gel extensions can be done at home yourself. To achieve the best results, it is important to follow certain rules and act step by step.

It is worth paying close attention to preparing the procedure, that is, purchasing the necessary materials.

  1. First you need to choose the right gel. It can be single-phase, two-phase and three-phase. The first one is best for beginners to use at home. High-quality modern material does not have a strong 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 will not spread. The cost starts from 200 rubles per 15 grams.
  2. Without an ultraviolet lamp, the gel will not harden. There is no need to chase design or additional functions; a simple lamp for use at home will be enough. You can purchase it at a price of 1000 rubles.
  3. Professional degreasers can replace simple medical 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, various files and other important little things are sold in every store with professional cosmetics. For the first few times of self-extension, you won’t need a lot of them. There should be several files, with different grinding surfaces, including special polishing blocks.
  6. Dust brushes or lint-free cloths.
  7. A question that interests beginners is how to do extensions correctly so that the length of the nails and their appearance are ideal. To do this, use tips or forms.

What to choose – tips or forms for extensions

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. During this procedure, your own nail is also actively filed down and is subject to significant damage.

Extension on forms is much easier than on tips.

Form is most often paper template, onto which the gel is subsequently applied. It is easy to cut to the size of any nail. They are divided into upper and lower, depending on where they are attached. Upper forms preferable.

A roll of disposable forms costs from 200 rubles. Replace finished goods You can use thick foil if you don’t have any molds on hand.

The video will clearly show how to use forms for nail extensions, where you will learn how to place forms for nail extensions under a classic square.

How to extend nails using forms

In the nails industry today there is great amount various options for nail manicure.

Please note that the choice of form for extensions should be made depending on the structure natural nail, fingers and palm in general.

Below is a list of popular nail shapes for extensions and ways to choose the shape for yourself.

  • Oval shape

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

  • Clear square

For large hands with wide nails, a clear one will suit square shape. The corners of the square should not be too sharp, otherwise the finished manicure will not be durable.

  • Soft square

This shape suits all nails and is the most comfortable. You need to file your nails into a square and round the ends. The length can be any.

  • Round form

The nail is filed along the natural curve of the finger and softened at the corners. This form is suitable for those with 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. It will visually help to elongate the palm, suitable for thick fingers.

  • Almond shaped nails

These look great on thin fingers with narrow nails. The nail should be rounded to this shape 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’s quite difficult to walk around with such a triangular manicure every day. Not suitable for large hands.

  • Stiletto shape

Very long nails pointed shapes are called stilettos. This design is preferred by bold and daring people.

  • Pipe nail shape

Many people's favorite shape. Very feminine and neat. The pipe has straight edges and a rounded tip, similar to an almond shape.

  • Beveled

Another name for lipstick shape. The cut end of the nail at an angle of 45 degrees looks very extravagant. The cuts 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 seem that these are stiletto nails, only the tip is an angle. 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 adding extensions, the edge of the nail is made wider than its base, creating the appearance of a trapezoid. This design is sometimes called "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 with an almond shape, and the edge as with a square.

How to extend nails onto forms - extension technology at home

The gel extension procedure should only be carried out on healthy nails, without damage, burrs and fungus. By strictly following the instructions, growing your nails at home will not be difficult.

Stages of extension:

  1. Prepare workplace. An ordinary table will do, as long as it is not exposed to straight lines. Sun rays, otherwise the gel will harden too quickly, which will affect the quality of the work results. There should be an outlet for an ultraviolet lamp near the table.
  2. Treat your hands with any antiseptic.
  3. Trim or push back cuticles. Give your nails a maximum length of 2 millimeters. Too much short nails will not allow you to attach the form correctly.
  4. Run a nail file over the surface of the nail until it becomes slightly rough. The gel will not lie tightly on a smooth nail, and then peeling and air can enter.
  5. Remove dust from the nail with a napkin or brush.
  6. Degrease nails and apply primer.
  7. Place the form for modeling nails under the edge of the nail plate and fix it. Check if there are any gaps left.
  8. Cover the nail with a continuous, even layer of gel. 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 way it won't look flat.
  9. Give the nail the desired shape.
  10. Dry under the lamp for 30 seconds.
  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 hardened.
  13. Remove the paper blank from under the nail.
  14. Use a file to smooth out any unevenness and adjust the length.
  15. Apply varnish, create a design, and enjoy the result.

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

Each season, fashion trends offer more and more options for nail coloring, and new unusual materials are used. The once classic French jacket has now become one of the ways to stand out in the crowd.

Colored gels for creating a French manicure are available for sale. After extensions in this way, all you need to do is cover your nails with clear varnish or add glitter.

How to care for extended nails at home

About three weeks usually pass between correction procedures. The first correction should be made after two.

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

  • Avoid nail polish remover containing acetone.
  • Use rubber gloves when cleaning and washing dishes using detergents.
  • Do not expose your hands to temperature changes. The extension material used may turn yellow and crack.
  • Use special oils to moisturize the nail plate and cuticle.

If you follow all the rules and instructions, prepare and approach the matter thoughtfully, then you can do it at home beautiful manicure with nail extensions, it is not necessary to contact specialists in salons. The technology of using gel allows you to correct all natural imperfections, and if you try, artificial nails will look like natural ones.