Pro Tips

How to Apply Gel Nail Polish

What is gel nail polish? OPI’s gel nail polish is officially called “GelColor Soak-off Gel Lacquer” and in short, a gel manicure is a thin brush-on formula, designed for high performance and a glossier finish regular nail polish.

When it comes to the question "How long do gel nails last?" In fact, an OPI GelColor manicure lasts for up to 3 weeks.

Before you get started, you'll need the following products:

• OPI GelColor Base Coat

• OPI LED Light

• OPI GelColor Cajun Shrimp®

• OPI GelColor Top Coat

• Expert Touch Nail Wipes

• N.A.S. 99 Nail Cleansing Solution

• Nail and Cuticle Oil

Now, for the steps...

Step 1

Start with properly prepped nails, and shake GelColor Base Coat vigorously for 1 minute to ensure the product is fully dispersed.

Step 2

Apply 1 thin coat evenly without flooding the cuticle area, be sure to cap the free edge.

Step 3

Cure for 30 seconds in the Dual Cure LED Light.

Step 4

Shake GelColor shade of choice vigorously for 1 minute. Shown here is OPI GelColor Cajun Shrimp®.

Step 5

Apply 2 thin coats leaving a tiny margin around the cuticle area. Cap the free edge to prevent shrinkage. Cure each coat 30 seconds in the Dual Cure LED Light.

Step 6

Shake GelColor Top Coat vigorously for 1 minute.

Step 7

Apply 1 thin coat leaving a tiny margin around the cuticle area. Cap the free edge to seal in GelColor. Cure 30 seconds in the Dual Cure LED Light.

Step 8

Remove gel residue with a Nail Wipe saturated with N.A.S. 99.