Builder gel overlay on short natural nails

[@katydidknits]

I always have to chuckle when you mention your “nublets”, because you have those gorgeous long nail beds. I have to have a good bit of free edge to have the length you have. I love how simple and lovely this looks - I’m definitely learning to embrace that on my own nails as well.

[@MarlaKris]

Omgosh thank you! And I fully support embracing natural nails! 🙌🏻

[@vegasrenie]

Yeah. My nails are fat (wide) rather than long. Long beds look cool. 😑

[@mochahontas00]

Great video. I was wanting to do my own gel overlay and needed these tips.

[@mbfred]

So glad I stumbled onto your video - I have short natural nails and wanted to do a gel overlay so now I have a great tutorial. TY!

[@Dannielle.S]

*Note to self: stop doing my nails on the weekends cause MK is going to put out a video every Monday doing exactly what I did the Saturday prior, and I’ll want to have it so my nails turn out better” 😂😂😂😂 stop reading my brain 2 days late Marla lmfao ❤❤

[@MarlaKris]

🤣😂 just message me on Friday to see what I have coming 🤣💞🫶🏻

[@Dannielle.S]

@@MarlaKris 😂😂😂😂 deal!

[@rharris8121]

Hahaha

[@kimberlyskinner8177]

Great refresh!🤩😍. I am stuck on Mani Boss Builder, Pink Lace 🥰. It really helps with low side cracks, that I hate!!😡. In the winter I do warm oil soaks and that seems to make my nails more resilient to the stinkin' side cracks 🥰💓😘

[@MarlaKris]

That pink lace is STUNNING!! Ooh now I wanna try a warm oil soak!

[@shakirasmylie6178]

I just subscribed to her channel because she is so awesome with nails and making people laugh

[@MarlaKris]

Welcome to the family, lovebug! ❤️

[@judysalisbury3363]

I love seeing the cat and the hairs in your videos. I feel right at home. 🐈

[@MarlaKris]

You are my people 🫶🏻

[@latishaw1474]

Hey Marla. I have really been struggling the last few weeks with my mental health. I am loving your extra shorties though.

[@MarlaKris]

Sending you so many hugs, girly. You’re incredible and so brave. You got this, chick 🫶🏻💞

[@jackieruskey7721]

Thanks for the about acetone that may be my nail and mani pop off issue. I have oily everything! Can't wait to test it out!!

[@MarlaKris]

Please report back!!

[@kimmom7785]

When she says don’t touch your skin PLEASE 🙏🏻 listen ! ❤ the nublets !

[@MarlaKris]

Tell ‘em!! 📢 Thanks lovie ❤️

[@emily-wb4fv]

Hi! A couple questions as someone new to doing builder gel: 1) is primer necessary or can I use gel base coat under builder gel? The base coat and builder gel are same brand. 2) you mentioned we can put gel polish on top of builder gel. Does builder gel replace base coat? Can I just go right in with color? 3) do you wipe with alcohol/take off sticky layer for each layer of builder gel or only at the end when you have all layers on and cured? Thank you!!!!!

[@MarlaKris]

Happy to help!! 1- totally depends on the individual. My nails need a primer. Yours may not. Give it a shot without and see how they last! 2- yep! You can go right in with color! 3- no, don’t wipe the nail down until you’re finished! You want the tack to help adhere the layers to themselves 🫶🏻

[@emily-wb4fv]

@@MarlaKris thank you!!!

[@Madnessmakes]

I always put builder gel on my nails before dip powder. I have super weak nails and I need all the protection I can get! I use the dipalicious builder gel and I love it!💜

[@MarlaKris]

I so feel this!!

[@laurasmith2173]

How do you get the dip powder to stick to the builder gel? I have done a manicure twice with different methods and both times the dip did not adhere to the builder gel. The first time just the dip came off. The second time, the dip and builder gel came off then they separated from each other. I have a hema allergy so I have been avoiding gels, but I love my builder gel.

[@Madnessmakes]

@@laurasmith2173 I believe the dipalicious builder gel is hema free. After I apply the builder gel and I file shape and buff I use gel application for my dip powder. Make sure you file the surface of the builder gel if it’s smooth then nothing will stick to it. Hope this helps.

[@Madnessmakes]

@@MarlaKris right? Lol I just took my tips off and I also have nuggets! But I made the best of them and I did an ombré mani on top of the builder gel.

[@valerie022848]

Love your little "helper"!

[@MarlaKris]

😻

[@MargiLowry]

I'm learning so much and grateful for your careful explanations. xo Love you back, bye!🥰

[@MarlaKris]

So glad you’re finding my content helpful!! Please let me know if there’s anything you’d like to see more videos on! 💞

[@vickywray7285]

Thanks for another great educational video Marla!

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome, sweetness! ❤️

[@lakishapitts8085]

WCD BG is my jam! Thanks for the tips!

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome! 🫶🏻❤️

[@audreymcgee5728]

Hi! Is there a video showing gel polish over a builder??

[@TracyCampanella]

I'm early! Lool. The cat hairs are worth it, btw. I adore them.

[@MarlaKris]

Lol I totally agree! Good morning sunshine! ❤️

[@alwaysgrowing7273]

Question: I have really thin nails. What do you think about builder gel before a full cover extension to protect my thin nails?

[@MarlaKris]

I think it’s overkill. The extensions will do a great job of protecting your nails!

[@davidnormamendoza5206]

Good morning Marla thank you for this video I have short nails and this helps 🥰 by the way you look great for 40 😊 I would of never thought you're 40 ill be 36 soon so we're fairly close 🤗

[@MarlaKris]

Good morning starshine! Omgosh THANK YOU!! You just made my whole day 🫶🏻💞

[@davidnormamendoza5206]

@@MarlaKris 🥰

[@sheilasmith8648]

Love the outcome, must try.♥️

[@MarlaKris]

Let me know how it goes! ❤️

[@mcgee3manis]

You always make Mondays better. :) I learned I think from Mani boss to do an easy apex, before curing hold your hand upside down for 10-20 seconds. I bet you already know but just in case :)

[@MarlaKris]

You make MY Mondays better! Yep that’s a great way to create an apex! My nails have a natural apex so I don’t typically have to do that unless I’m rockin longer claws 💞

[@mcgee3manis]

Ha! I figured you knew this one. ☺ One question though, kinda related. Would builder gel be a good top coat for dip powders I'm having trouble with chipping? Only spefic powders are an issue.

[@MarlaKris]

@@mcgee3manis you can def use builder! Just make sure you top coat and cap the edges 💞

[@mcgee3manis]

@@MarlaKris sweet! Thank you❤

[@Rebecca-pd3lr]

Thank you for your videos, I find them very helpful and informative! I have always had very thin, weak nails that break easily that tend to lift when I apply any overlay compared to when I go to a salon. For thin, weak nails, what do you prefer: builder gel, dip powder or full cover extensions?

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome, love! Totally depends on the nails but once acrylic (dip) is the strongest, that might be my rec. maybe full cover with dip on top!

[@adrianeboltenhouse7431]

i have a sun allergy and dyshidrotic eczema which affects hand mostly. just very short periods in uv light i can handle but if i gotta use it several times i end up with a horrible breakout on my hands. we’re talking purple pin prick dots and tiny little blisters and skin hardens and peels. i was thinking gloves like this may save me so i can still do my nails. i don’t seem to find any that go very close to nail tho. i saw the gloves here tho so this video may have saved me and made it possible to be able to even wear gel paint again

[@lorriangus]

If you use primer, do you still need base coat? I was making a set of press-ons the other day and used primer. The gel polish seemed to cover better than when I use it over base gel. Thanks for the video, Marla! Scritch the kitty for me. ❤️ 🐈‍⬛

[@MarlaKris]

Lol will do!! ❤️❤️

[@lorriangus]

@@MarlaKris I was in the middle of editing my comment when you saw it. There's now a question. 😁

[@MarlaKris]

I sees it!! Yes. For maximum adhesion, primer and gel base. But this can vary from person to person! If you don’t need a step, skip a step!

[@lorriangus]

@@MarlaKris If I'm making press-ons for other people, I want them to be of good quality. I've just discovered primer, that stuff rocks!

[@kathyl4692]

Marla, did you not put a top coat after the builder gel? I might have missed it.

[@MarlaKris]

I didn’t top coat but you certainly can if that’s your preference! ❤️

[@n9315]

how do you clean the detail brush when you're done? Also can you put nail polish on top of the builder gel overlay? if yes, do you need a uv cured top coat to seal it or does any top coat work? I'm a major beginner here 😭

[@m.fussell_]

I’m sure you’ve already figured it out by now (HA!) but I am a nail tech and you can clean your brushes using monomer if it’s an acrylic brush and acetone and 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean gel brushes. You can put paint over builder gel- all you have to do is simply not put the top coat and instead put the gel color you want and then top coat!

[@jennys2398]

Thank you for sharing these tips! I really appreciate the detailed explanation. I am really wanting to try builder gel but will continue studying before I do :)

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome! 💞🫶🏻

[@amymarxer6559]

I lub a nub! And a kitty cameo!! That West Coast Dips looks almost like Pink Lace. 😁

[@MarlaKris]

Super similar! Lol Boogie just loves the camera 🐱

[@amymarxer6559]

@@MarlaKris Apple doesn’t fall far… 🤣

[@hoawong119]

Is there a video you do on removal of builder gel ? I had a hard time removing it with acetone

[@MarlaKris]

The best way I’ve found to remove builder gel is to file off as much as possible without touching the natural nail and soak off the last thin layer. Or.. use a gel remover! I like the Aliver brand on Amazon amzn.to/3RRaSzN

[@1H20Pro]

Hi Marla! Did you use the buffer to buff the entire nail after the builder gel was done? I always thought we had to “rough it not buff it” when it comes to gel products…. Now I know you didn’t polish over these… but had you went ahead and put gel polish on them would you had buffed them? Sometimes I have trouble getting them perfectly smooth if I don’t buff prior to gel polish. (I always use a builder gel overlay on my natural nails) thank you!!

[@michellesanchez6510]

Do i need to put the topcoat over the builder gel if I'm going to use dip powder? Is it common to file and buff the builder gel layer?

[@angiehc77]

Ok so... what do you do when it's time to take everything off? This filing I've been doing is tearing up my nails big time. They are so thin. 😢

[@MarlaKris]

I would file the bulk off, but not down to the nail. Then you can either soak the rest in acetone or use a gel remover!

[@angiehc77]

@@MarlaKris thank you. I've tried the acetone approach, but I feel that it eats at my nails too. I'm going to just apply builder gel (thin coat) to my thin naked nublets tonight to help protect them. They feel so thin and fragile.

[@candywilliams3734]

Thanks for sharing, great video and information! 💖

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you bunches! 💞

[@ErikaTheChaosManagerx4]

I love your videos always!! 😍

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so dang sweet to me 🫶🏻💞

[@kristinabeiermann]

So if I do gel on top of builder, what’s the process like for removing that gel when I’m ready to change the manicure but keep the builder? And like…back filling the builder gel as my nail grows out?

[@screamingmimi90]

Unless they changed it, YN primer has HEMA in it. I’m so glad you stress the no skin contact rule. Love your channel, Marla. Warm wishes from Minnesota! ❤

[@MarlaKris]

You’re right about the primer! Hence the no skin lol thanks so much for your kindness and support! 🫶🏻💞

[@sarahstolk9558]

doesn’t the natural nail separate from the builder gel if you file the free edge? also do you have to put a base coat on top of the top coat if you wanna put a color on top at the end?

[@tiffy9310]

Hi! Thanks for the video. I have a question I use fake press on nails because of the thickness I need to stop picking my skin. I use short press on nails on top of short natural nails, so double thick at the free edge. That’s how I like it so I won’t destroy my face. Do you think I could build up my nails with this builder product to be as thick as press on nails?

[@MarlaKris]

Absolutely! I think builder would be perfect for your nail situation! Just make sure to rough up your extensions and use a gel primer so everything adheres well ♥️

[@alanna4148]

PLEASE answer, I’m so confused… I’m looking into buying myself a lamp and builder gel to grow out my natural nails but in your video I’m so confused as to why you did the whole process of applying builder gel to then go in and e-file them ?? What is the exact point of doing that? And - wouldn’t the nail become rough and like grainy after e-filing it ? 🙏 thank you in advance

[@MarlaKris]

Hi Alanna! You definitely don’t need an efile - nor do you NEED to do any filing but if you’re application isn’t “perfect” you can file it to perfect it. I used the efile to blend down the cuticle area and even out the surface. Yes, it will be rough, but you need either a tacky or rough surface for top coat to adhere

[@AndreaBella22]

Do you keep your detail brush in anything to keep it soft during application? I don’t want it to get all gross. Going to try my first BG attempt tonight.

[@MarlaKris]

I usually have it laying flat on the desk during application but after, I remove the gel and then apply a bit of gel base to keep it soft when not in use 💜

[@AndreaBella22]

@@MarlaKris we’ll it wasn’t total disaster. The cuticles gave me some problems and I completely forgot file and shape afterwards. Overall it wasn’t bad though. I’m used to only dipping.

[@christinap5148]

How does this one compare to the mani boss pink lace? I love that one but it’s a little expensive for just one bottle of product shipped.

[@pasha1824]

Do you have a video on how to remove builder gel?

[@MarlaKris]

I don’t think I do but I would recommend filing off as much as possible without touching mail and soak the rest off. Or gel removers work pretty well!

[@JackJackIsBackBack]

Do you cap the free edge? I dont have a free edge on my nails right now so not sure if i need to wait a week for them to grow out before I do this?

[@Veronica-jv9qk]

Hi, great video! please help. Every time I do my gel overlay it pushes back from the top of my nail eventually and leaves my free edges exposed. Why does this happen, and what can I do?

[@MarlaKris]

Do you wash your hands before you prep? Water changes the nail shape so that can cause that weirdness. I advise waiting an hour after water exposure before starting prep

[@Veronica-jv9qk]

@@MarlaKris I wash obsessively, and right before I do my manicure too. Omg thank you so much! I'll try this!

[@MarlaKris]

@@Veronica-jv9qk of course! Please lmk how that works!!

[@AutumnLucas75]

Is builder gel or the rubber gel better for someone eanting to make a thicker nail to stop nail biting .. and what products in whay order pretty please? Im desperate to stop nail biting.

[@MarlaKris]

Totally depends on your natural nails. If your nails are on the thin and flexible side, I’d suggest rubber base. If you want to build extensions or your nails are strong, then I’d suggest builder gel.

[@AutumnLucas75]

@@MarlaKris they are think and very bitten. Lol I don't want fake nails, just something strong so I won't bite them. I tried fill but it's terrible to take off. So I dont know if rubber was better and if something goes under it first. Thank you so much!

[@MarlaKris]

@@AutumnLucas75 I’d definitely suggest rubber base for you!

[@AutumnLucas75]

@@MarlaKris thank you! Do I need something before and after? I'm a lifetime nailbiter with no experience there are so many products. I'm clueless. I really appreciate your help!

[@karenstanton1082]

Natural nublets😂. They’re so pretty!!

[@MarlaKris]

Lol thank you bunches! 💞

[@saramackey993]

If you were going to do gel polish over this, would you use peel base first?

[@MarlaKris]

You can. I probably wouldn’t. I’d opt to file off the gel color when I was ready to switch it up

[@kimemerson5732]

Lol, I have 3 cats that do this! There is always a stray hair I need to pull out!

[@MarlaKris]

Lol you’re not alone!!

[@kimemerson5732]

@@MarlaKris

[@heathergittings1191]

Can you use regular polish on top and take off and change colors out often?

[@MarlaKris]

Absolutely!!

[@heathergittings1191]

@@MarlaKris thank you!

[@marianino2773]

I am trying to find something that will keep my natural nails from breaking because regular gel polish doesn’t do the trick. Will this help? Can I paint my nails with gel polish in top of this builder gel?

[@MarlaKris]

I think might help! And yes! You can do whatever you’d like over top!

[@lisacaduff7372]

Hi Marla! I have been watching a ton of your videos lately. Having a blast and learning alot! I have one question. I have heard you (and others) say not to wash or get hands wet before doing a mani. I understand the reason. My question is this: alot of times we are removing a mani before we apply a new one. Does using the soaking method with acetone cause the same problem or is that a different kind of "wet" for nails?

[@MarlaKris]

Great question! So, acetone actually has the opposite effect. It completely dehydrates the nails, so the nails don’t absorb moisture at all. Basically, water ADDS to the nail while acetone TAKES AWAY from the nails

[@karennelson2779]

I am dry also, I have Modelones dehydrator, can I use that instead of wiping with acetone?

[@MarlaKris]

You sure can!!

[@amandanoble6620]

Should the builder gel be smooth or have some texture to it before applying gel?

[@MarlaKris]

Up to you! I prefer to smooth the builder and add a gel base before polish but you can use whichever method you prefer!

[@laurenvanwinkle9529]

Does anyone know what UV lamp she is using? I checked her Amazon link and couldn’t find one listed.

[@MarlaKris]

Full power lamp is the Purtato! It’s my favorite gel lamp - perfect nanometers and wattage to cure any gel product! www.amazon.com/dp/B09VS65HKK/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_82XMHC972VD8N7R0S9FK?linkCode=ml2&tag=marlakris-20

[@ashleydarby3077]

My overlay with the builder gel always ends up peeling off

[@anyagodwin5197]

Thank you so much 😊

[@deannacoulter2957]

Can a person do builder gel with dip on top to protect the natural nail?

[@MarlaKris]

Absolutely!!

[@amber_Forever16]

How do I do this on nails that don't have any tip growth? The kind that are super short, I can't grow mine behind just the nail plate, like no overhang... hard to describe but imagine nails as short as possible without bleeding😂

[@MarlaKris]

lol I totally get it! I would apply this just like a gel polish. As many thin coats as you see fit.

[@yomgirl1137]

What do you use to clean the builder gel off skinny brush

[@MarlaKris]

I like to keep some on the brush for storage! It helps keep the brush hydrated. But you can use alcohol to remove the gel!

[@lyndawantiam4008]

Is builder gel same as nail hardener??

[@MarlaKris]

Nope! Nail “hardener” is usually a thin lacquer that air dries while this is a thick, hard gel that cures

[@terrythomas7035]

I forgot the base coat is that bad ? I prepped like normal

[@terrythomas7035]

Also how do you clean your detail brushes

[@MarlaKris]

Sometimes it’s not necessary. You may not need it. If you get lifting, use the base next time 💞

[@Dolldoll100]

Hi silly question but why is your arm and hand covered?

[@MarlaKris]

Not silly at all! It’s just for skin protection while I’m in the UV light to cure the gel 🫶🏻

[@Dolldoll100]

@@MarlaKris Thank you 😊

[@monbrat3064]

New subscriber now Much love

[@MarlaKris]

Welcome to the family! 💜🫶🏻

[@olldydrvr]

Morning lady. I haven't watched your videos in about year! Nothing to do with you or your work. I almost destroyed my nails and nailbeds!. They would only grow maybe a nano length, split, peel, and break off. Soooo, this past August was a year since having anything on nails. But, I do have natural healthly nails. Do not need tips!! Yah!!. I was scared I had screwed up bad! But, I'm thinking about using the builder gel and see what happens. My nails are long again, and very strong! (they do not bend now!!)

[@screamingmimi90]

I’m right behind you with the nail ruining. Currently in a self-imposed 6 month break. I did it with an e-file. How did you do it?

[@MarlaKris]

Welcome back, sweets!! So glad your nails are on the mend! 🙌🏻

[@Koko-jw4zu]

This is what I need!!! Can I put it on my toes!!!

[@MarlaKris]

You sure can!!

[@dee_ewell_pierce]

Cat hair is a food groop at our house!

[@MarlaKris]

🤣😂 so much same!!

[@midnightbluecitrus2687]

Why people wearing half gloves now?

[@MarlaKris]

@@midnightbluecitrus2687 I was using them to protect my skin in the gel lamp.

[@sarahh944]

طولتيها وهي قصيره

[@ariellebrooke8760]

Any lamp over 36 watts is way too strong

[@aprildegele1510]

I love your videos, but have to say I'm pretty disappointed that you don't have a contact for folks that don't use Facebook. I sometimes have questions and while many times I can figure out the answer by watching other videos (yours or someone else's), it's a bit disheartening that there's no way to contact you with specific questions. I get that you probably have a lot of questions to field, but if you're going to put yourself out there, then honestly, everyone should be able to contact you without getting on a platform that some people don't use.

[@MarlaKris]

If you check the description, you’ll see I have a fb group, an Instagram and an email listed for anyone that wants to connect or has questions ❤️

[@ceknott]

Terrible to see working on all nails. On e detailed on e Web enough please