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How To: Your Guide to Flawless Gel-X Nails at Home

Welcome, busy mom! We know your time is precious, and salon visits can be a luxury. That's why we've made it simple for you to achieve stunning, salon-quality nails with Keebler's hand-painted Gel-X full cover nail sets, all from the comfort and convenience of your home. Follow this guide for a flawless application that keeps your natural nails healthy and your manicure looking amazing!

1. How to Find Your Perfect Fit (Sizing)

Achieving a salon-look manicure starts with the perfect fit. Proper sizing is mandatory for a flawless appearance and comfortable wear, ensuring your Gel-X full cover nails look custom-made.

Measure Your Nails (Choose One Method):

Method 1: Using a Flexible Measuring Tape (Recommended)

    1. Hold a flexible measuring tape horizontally across the widest curvature of your natural nail bed, from sidewall to sidewall.
    2. Record the measurement in millimeters (mm).
    3. Tip: Make sure to measure all ten of your natural nails, as sizes can vary between fingers and even between hands!

Method 2: Using Paper/Tape and a Ruler

    1. Gently press a small piece of paper or clear tape flat against your natural nail bed.
    2. Use a pen to mark the widest part of your nail from sidewall to sidewall.
    3. Carefully remove the paper/tape and use a ruler to measure the distance between the two dots in millimeters (mm).

Our Size Chart:

Once you have your measurements, compare them to our detailed size chart below to find your ideal fit:

SIZE THUMB (mm) INDEX (mm) MIDDLE (mm) RING (mm) PINKY (mm)
XS 14 10 11 10 8
S 15 11 12 11 9
M 16 12 13 12 10
L 17 13 14 13 14

  • Sizing Advice: Please select the size that fits most of your fingers. Consider sizing up if you are between two sizes or have flatter nail beds.

2. Step-by-Step Application Guide

Achieve salon-quality artistry from the comfort of your home! Proper application is key for your Gel-X full cover nails to last 2-3 weeks.

  1. Nail Prep (Crucial!): Start with clean, dry hands. Remove any old nail polish and trim down your natural nails.
    • Gently buff the surface of your natural nails using the provided nail file. This creates a surface for the gel to adhere to.
    • Gently push back your cuticles with the wooden stick.
    • Wipe each natural nail thoroughly with the alcohol prep pad provided to remove any oils or debris.
  2. Size & Organize: Select the correct Gel-X full cover nail size for each of your fingers and set them aside in order.
  3. Apply Bonder & Primer: Apply a pH bonder to your natural nail, followed by a thin layer of primer (as per Gel-X system requirements). Allow to air dry.
  4. Apply Extend Gel:
    • Apply a thin, even layer of Extend Gel (your gel adhesive) over your entire natural nail. Cure this layer under your LED light (follow product instructions for curing time).
    • Next, apply Extend Gel to the inside of the Gel-X full cover nail (the contact area that will sit on your natural nail).
  5. Place & Cure:
    • Align the Gel-X full cover nail with your cuticle at a 45-degree angle.
    • Gently press down, slowly pushing out any air bubbles, ensuring a seamless bond.
    • While holding firmly, cure the nail under your LED light (typically 15-60 seconds per nail, depending on your light and gel). Ensure firm pressure at the base during curing.
  6. Finishing Touches:
    • File the sides and base of the applied Gel-X full cover nails for a smoother, seamless look.
    • Apply a top coat over the entire nail and cure for enhanced durability and shine.
  7. Post-Application: Avoid contact with water for the first hour to allow the adhesive to fully set.

3. Gentle Removal Guide

Proper and gentle removal is crucial to prevent any damage to your natural nails. Never force removal!

  1. Trim: Using nail clippers, carefully trim your Gel-X full cover nails down to your natural nail length.
  2. Soak: Soak your nails in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can use acetone for 5-10 minutes if the bond is very strong.
  3. Lift Gently: Using a wooden cuticle stick (included in your kit), carefully and gently lift the sides of the Gel-X full cover nail to loosen the adhesive. Slowly pry off the nail.
    • Important: If you encounter resistance, do not force it. Simply re-soak your nails for a few more minutes until they lift easily.
  4. Clean-Up: Gently buff your natural nails to remove any remaining adhesive residue.
  5. Nourish: Conclude by applying cuticle oil to rehydrate and nourish your natural nails.

 

4. Essential Care & Longevity Tips

To maximize the lifespan and keep your hand-painted Gel-X full cover nails looking vibrant, follow these care tips:

  • Avoid Prolonged Water Exposure: Wear gloves when doing dishes or household chores to protect the adhesive and designs.
  • Cuticle Oil is Your Friend: Apply cuticle oil regularly to rehydrate and strengthen your natural nails, promoting overall nail health.
  • Gentle Handling: Treat your nails with care to preserve the bond and prevent lifting or chipping of the designs.
  • Reusability Care: Our Gel-X full cover nails are designed for multiple uses! After removal, gently buff the underside of the nails to smooth out any excess adhesive. Cleanse and store them in their original packaging for their next encore.
  • Nail Breaks: For healthy natural nails, it's a good practice to give them short breaks between applications to allow them to rehydrate and repair.