How to apply Soft Gel Tips
- 3 min reading time
Soft gel tips for salon quality nails at home
Soft gel tips are the perfect way to create long, salon quality nails quickly without complicated sculpting. Your nails will look like you just left the salon, but you can easily apply them at home. In this blog, we explain everything step by step so your soft gel tips stay in place for up to 4 weeks.
What are soft gel tips?
Soft gel tips are pre shaped nail tips made from flexible gel material that fully cover your natural nail. They are not made from plastic like traditional fake nails. Soft gel tips are thin, lightweight and comfortable to wear. Unlike traditional tips, you do not need to build them with builder gel. Simply attach them with gel glue, cure under a UV or LED lamp and your nails are ready for your monthly nail look.
How do you apply soft gel tips and can you use regular nail glue?
Soft gel tips should be applied using special tip gel or extend gel. This thicker gel ensures strong adhesion to your natural nail. Regular nail glue is not suitable because it does not cure under a lamp and is less flexible. This can cause tips to break or lift more easily. Regular nail glue usually lasts only about a week. For best results, always use gel glue suitable for curing under a UV or LED lamp.
Can you use builder gel for soft gel tips?
In some cases, builder gel can be used, but it is not always the best option. Builder gel is thicker and designed for building or strengthening nails. A dedicated tip gel or extend gel provides better adhesion. If you choose to use builder gel, apply it thinly and press firmly to avoid air bubbles.
Do soft gel tips need a base coat?
A thin base coat is often recommended for extra adhesion, especially if your nails are naturally oily. This improves grip between your natural nail and the gel. You can also use the same gel glue, cure a thin layer for 30 seconds and then apply the tips.
Step by step: how to apply soft gel tips
Preparation:
- Step 1: Push back your cuticles and remove them with a cuticle cutter or remover.
- Step 2: Lightly buff your nails and clean with a nail cleanser.
- Step 3: Choose the correct nail tip.
- Step 4: Prep the inside of the tip and remove dust.
Application:
- Step 5: Dehydrate and apply primer.
- Step 6: Apply gel glue and cure for 30 seconds.
- Step 7: Add gel to the tip.
- Step 8: Apply at a 45 degree angle and press down.
- Step 9: Flash cure under a UV LED lamp.
- Step 10: Fully cure for 60 seconds.
Finishing:
- Step 11: Blend the tip with your natural nail.
- Step 12: Shape and buff.
- Step 13: Apply gel polish or nail art and finish with a top coat.
Why do my soft gel tips lift?
Poor preparation is usually the cause. Make sure nails are clean, buffed and free of oils. Avoid air bubbles and use the correct amount of gel. Cure properly and blend the tip well to prevent lifting.
How to remove soft gel tips
Soft gel tips can be removed like gel polish by soaking in acetone. File the top coat, soak for 15 to 20 minutes and gently push off. Never pull them off to avoid damage.
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Ready to get started with soft gel tips? With the right prep and products, you can create a salon quality manicure at home.
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