How to Cure Gel Polish Correctly | Do's and Don'ts for a Salon Finish

[@calichef1962]

Kirsty and Adam, never doubt my love for the two of you. I just sat and watched paint dry for 24 minutes, and I wasn't even bored! In fact, it was actually interesting!

[@iamnoone5612]

As someone who studied science and works in a lab: the reason why your hands are not "white" (dried out) is because they most likely used Isopropanol instead of ethanol in the sanitiser. Both substances work equally well though. Also, the rubbing motion between fingers is spot on but what is even more important is to let the sanitiser sit there for roughly 60 seconds and during that time obviously not touch anything! ~60 seconds is the amount of time needed for the alcohol to be transported through a membrane/particle into a cell/bacteria/virus and "destroy" it. (It's not really destroyed or gone but most of the cells will be in a state where they can not make you ill anymore.) In my opinion these things aren't communicated very well by governments so, If anyone has more questions about that in general I'd be more than happy to answer them, if I can.

[@wendymoyer782]

Thank you. This IS important, in fact vital, information, and it is NOT being shared adequately. Di thank you again.

[@danam8742]

As a RN I feel this is not explained well to the public... nor do most want to understand the "whys" .... but since the pandemic started it seems more ppl want to know. Glad to know I'm not the only one trying to explain.... thanks.

[@danni2165]

WTF?! This is so irrelevant its not even funny!

[@amyreally6096]

They'd be dried out cos of the alcohol ,🙄

[@kristicoffey9135]

You are wonderful. I have watched you for years I have to say thank you for this video and tell you that most Salon's and Nail Professionals DO NOT have your work ethic or your care for your clients and their thoughts and feelings. Again I love your channel and watch you faithfully! You and your family stay safe and healthy.

[@melissadiarnefarmer]

Every problem you will have ever have ran into with curing gel polish. Fabulously informative video, I wish I had of had it in my arsenal before I had to learn these lessons the hard way. Love to Kirsty, the Kids, the fur kids & Adam & Family. Thank you for doing what you guys do xxx

[@alphaznailsfabulous3182]

I'm a certified nails tech in Florida,just wanted to thank you,I wait to get a notification on your videos I love how and what you do. Thanks again

[@amandah2866]

This is such a great demonstrative video! I knew under cured gel is not good but I never knew what that looks like on a nail. Turns out that I'm doing my black way too thick. Thanks for this super helpful video.

[@killerbunny3022]

Yes! Love this video please do more in-depth do's and don'ts with acrylics 💖 x

[@baleylahey6570]

Please!

[@lilbohbeat5785]

Totally. I’d love one for hard/builder gels as well

[@carald83]

Yes please

[@TheMetatronGirl]

Would Kirsty be willing to do a video like this on OVER curing, too? If there’s not enough for a full video, maybe a mention? I use Urban Graffiti polishes and this was super helpful...I’ve had difficulty getting them to fully cure, and it’s now clear I’m still getting my layers a bit too thick. Thanks ever so much.

[@MrsJShepherd1]

A million years ago (well, about 15 years ago) I did a basic diploma in hair & beauty, and one of the biggest rules for normal nail polish was thin coats. Build your coverage with thin coats, otherwise it takes forever to dry & the client will have dings & chips. Gel is clearly the same, and cure time is soo important. I love how Naio put cure times on all their products ❤

[@MrsJShepherd1]

Oh! I've been using the Builder in a Bottle and it has been incredible! My natural nails never grow any length unless I have acrylics on, but I can do Builder in a Bottle with just top coat or with gel polish, and my nails have grown, they're strong. I had to file them down, I had to choose a shape! I've literally never done that before unless I've had acrylic on. Amazing. PS that pashmina shade is gorgeous and I want it now 😭

[@RhaineEDaize]

Please.. would you be willing to add which led lamp you use.. thank you so much for tutorial.. have a great week.

[@kathytarman2302]

Great video for us that are just starting to do nails and haven’t gone to school. Thank you for sharing this information. Have a great day.

[@janeox7358]

Loved this video! I have had an allergic reaction to under-cured gel polish before, let me tell you all IT IS PAINFUL. It caused skin around my nails the crack, peel and blister, sore rash and spots all over my fingers and I could barely use my phone because of how tender they were, it took weeks to heal!! Please be vigilant when using gel polish guys 💕

[@VioletIndigo3]

Can you wear gel polish now?

[@janeox7358]

missalaneous11 Yes, but I have to be really careful. Some brands affect me more than others, and I try to get them done less often, so I let them grow out a lot before getting them done again!

[@Mariannevieitez]

I needed this ! I’m not a nail tech just interested in nails . Have a lamp and gel polish did my own the other night next day all lifting and peeled off 🙈😅 wayyyyy too thick 🙈

[@agds91078]

M_ F Same for me too!! 🤗

[@kbowler9266]

Thank you. Knowing why it fails and how to make the whole thing right is extremely helpful.

[@QuayHollywood]

I am so happy that you did this video. I use all naio products but have been getting the wrinkling issue but I dont put it on thick layers and I cure my polish for double the recommended time. But I know user error is big for me so I may be doing one of these things and not realizing it. Thank tou.

[@katieholdsworth3273]

If I ever need advice on nails I always come to this Chanel and most of the time, I find my answer. Thank you x

[@deedavis6981]

Before I started doing my own nails about 3 years ago, I went to the nail salon and there was one tech that would cure the polish for about 15 seconds (needed 30) and then cure the top coat for 5 minutes (only needed 1 minute) i ended up getting super dry cuticles and the polish would peel sometimes... to say the least I switched nail techs and my problems slowly got better! I can say from experience it is EXTREMELY important to make sure your products are correctly cured :)

[@amandaj0499]

You have saved my next manicure 💅🏼. I thought I was crazy with all the peeling I have had b4.

[@simonenz3889]

You're absolutely fantastic to watch kirsty. You've matured into this channel so well. Xo

[@annabusko-krupa5947]

SO MANY PEOPLE NEED TO UNDERSTAND THIS! Especially girls doing their nails at home undercuring gel polish or using the crappy 9W or 12W lamps complaining about the brand of nail polish giving them allergic reactions - no, it's incorrect application that causes them x

[@tillycomedy2194]

this video is so soothing haha. love your accent, and the way you present information

[@naomipask9956]

Another great video! This is really helpful and explained why I was having problems when I first started using gel polish. Thank you so much❤️❤️❤️

[@michellecrippen2966]

I’ve had these issues in the past. Learned to do a thin a layer as possible. Thanks for all your videos! 💖

[@lindsayd5556]

I look forward to you every day. *just* thought of a great vid idea if you haven’t already- send Fay an acrylic package and walk her through doing her own! 🤣🤣

[@friedaraeperkins3258]

I am really glad that you did this video. The Naio Nails gel polish is the only brand that I have used and I am loving it. I only had a few issues in the beginning and I think I was just heavy handed with the application of the gel. This really does explain everything so well, and I just love the shine I get from the top coats! Thank you for sharing your work with us, Kirsty. I love watching you create, teach and cut up with Adam. You are an amazing artist and y'all really make me laugh! Thanks from Texas 💖

[@lourdesbaby964]

I remember when I first had shellac done I thought the nail technician was being stingy with the product when she was applying thin coats. The result was obviously perfect and lasted until the regrowth and needed removing. Then when I started doing my own shellac I didn’t follow this rule and went overboard with the layering and under curing every time,getting frustrated with “pooling” every time! Then I realised how the salon did it and since then it’s been a success every time and lasts as long as the professional method 👍🏼 “Less is more” definitely applies to gel manicures.

[@bloodlacerose1688]

As someone who is new to doing her own gel polish at home, I do appreciate this video for its tips. The first time I did them I may have gone a little thick, not a lot but a little, and it peeled off after 5 days. The next time I did it I applied the polish thinner and let my hand set under the lamp for twice the auto off which is 60sec, so 120sec. I do have a much nicer look and it has lasted 7 days so far. My questions to you would be, How long should this last? and Is it safe to double up the time under the lamp (Just to be sure, because I don't have a pro lamp)? Thank you for sharing and for the wonderful tips. Have a safe and lovely day!!!

[@janeenek1038]

Hi there I’m from the U.S and just ordered a bunch of gels. I can’t wait till they get here. Your colors look amazing and so vibrant. I’ve been watching your videos for a minute 💜

[@bethwebb2681]

I am a self taught nail tech that only does a few friends and my own nails as a hobby in my spare time. I thoroughly enjoy doing nails and it is my escape and relaxation time for myself. However these videos of do's and dont's are extremely helpful so I would like to say thank you as it is a constant learning process for me. I do have a question regarding curing gel polishes though. I understand how important it is to make sure the nail/polish is not UNDER CURED but is there a negative from OVER CURING? Other than it taking longer to cure does it have any negative effects to the polish itself if it is cured 60 seconds vs 30 seconds or 120 seconds vs 60 seconds etc......thank you for your help and advice in advance!!!! PS I live your work and admire your talent!!!!

[@debbiedowning1137]

Thanks Kirsty for all the information you provide and sharing your expertise, I really appreciate all the information you share with us as I'm a newbie to nails and this training is invaluable, much love xx

[@marykayd2781]

Thank you for thinking of everything. You are such an amazing instructor.

[@mishkaallen9682]

Loving the gel videos for us people that are not acrylic pros xx

[@sharandhillon1138]

I’m not a nail tech. I use urban graffiti products. If anything I over-cure a couple of seconds, I’m too scared to under cure, Kirsty has taught me well 😊 From prepping to cuticle oil it takes me 2 hours to do my own nails 😖 I love to do family members nails but they moan I take so long, and get restless. It literally takes me an hour to prep, to clean up cuticle without cutting. And even after being so careful mum will say I’ve hurt her. I think maybe because I’m using hand file, and cheap one cus the good ones are out of stock. I don’t trust myself with a drill.

[@natashaowens2177]

Thank you so much for this! You have just helped me understand what I was doing wrong in the past (but I probably had a bad light too!)

[@barbjalcorn]

I know you’re all about education and I love you for it. Answered a few ? I had about over curing also. Thanks ❤️🇦🇺

[@rubyshoes1032]

Thanks Kirsty, great advice. I'm doing me nails tonight, i treated myself to some urban graffiti gel polish and can't wait to get cracking 🙏🏻💖

[@余小姐-h2k]

I wish i had found this video when i started doing gel nails so i wouldnt keep making the same mistake and feeling frustrated every time when there was chipping happening a week later right after i putting hours of effort doing them. I love your videos they are just helpful😚😙

[@justvalnow6642]

This video explained ALOT. Turns out the salon I go to does not cure the gel fully because I’ve experienced the first bad nail quite a few times.

[@katiesawkins5976]

I’ve been neeeeeding this!!!! Thank you ❤️

[@rianiquelotter3065]

Me too!!! Thank you!❤️😊

[@DavinaClaire24]

Do you have any tips/tricks for getting these results on very petite hands and fingernails? I have really small nails and have a lot of issues with cuticle flooding, capping the free edge (because my nails are usually pretty short) without getting the gel on my skin and just getting a nice, clean, salon finish on my teeny tiny nails. Any tips or advice would be appreciated...or maybe even an entire video on working on petite-handed clients?

[@dellajones9727]

Brittany Joy Oross I’m not a professional I been doing my own nails for a few years. Maybe try putting some polish on a little piece of plastic or small dish and get a small gel brush like a polygel brush for instance. I know sometimes even if you take some of the paint off the brush that comes in the bottle it can still be too much. Hope this helps you😊

[@toolmom6767]

I would like this as well. I constantly have to modify tips, etc. to for my nails as they are small.

[@sallysparrow17]

The Nail Hub has a great video she recently put out on 5/11/2020 with tips on how to apply gel polish to short nails. She suggests using nail forms or if you don't have those, painter's tape. Check it out!

[@CR-pw7zz]

I replaced the brush with a bought small gel brush, I have small hands so struggle. Actually the naio brushes are quite nice, OPI are horrific. I also have found the lamp you use can make a huge difference as cure times can vary and you can be left with the uncured gel running round your cuticle area.

[@saloon241]

I have really small nails as well and they can be difficult to do, I've had issues even when going to salons, especially if I want extensions as tips don't work well on my nails, especially when I was still a nail biter or if I have my nails short. The first thing I do is make sure my cuticles are prepped properly to give me as much space as possible. I make sure I take almost everything off the brush before I apply the polish, otherwise it can flood into the sidewalls and cuticles far to easily. Generally if its really thin it doesn't run. Using a different/smaller brush can help as well, especially for the brands that are 'helpful' and use a wide 'one stroke' brush thats wider than the nail. The urban grafitti brushes work ok for me so long as I don't press hard and don't have too much on them. I also try to have a small second brush with some acetone ready to clean up the edges if you get too close, especially for the clear coats that are harder to see. (I know this comment is fairly old but thought I would add what I do)

[@amyworman4196]

Kirsty, I look forward to your videos every day :)

[@Laysa43607]

More more pretty.... i love this new look of Kirsty💚💚💚♥♥♥

[@4evarea]

very very helpful!! I thought my lamp was going bad because I got wrinkles

[@TheMoesmith]

If there are no instructions on the bottle and the lamp is led and uv, how do I know how long to cure? I love your videos, they've taught me a lot. Signed Mildly Confused or Moe Smith.

[@Michelle15556]

Check the website! :D maybe they have some info on there

[@debbiemidwinter2472]

Thank you Kirsty brilliantly explained x

[@cassiemitchell1046]

Brilliant video, learnt so much. Thanks very much. Gonna go practice now 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😘

[@aprildickens9964]

I enjoy watching you every day! Kirsty, you make it easy to understand the why’s. 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@carol29carnegie]

Hi Kirsty an you overcure, and apart from the extra time it takes are there any drawbacks to over curing, great channel I watch it all the time and I’ve learned so much, thank you x

[@odetabajor6404]

I have the same gel polishes a love them Could you do a video on mixing custom shades with the gel polish? Or they shouldn’t be mixed ?

[@xfgzdfg]

Thank you for all the knowledge you’re giving me with every video ❤️👑

[@kristinebailey9685]

Hi Kirsty What do you use to stick the nails onto the stand? Love your teachings. Thank u

[@astaaraa.9625]

I know it's an example of what not to do, but I love the patterns on some of these nails! It would be really cool to see nail art that is intentionally recreating the patterns (properly cured, of course ;) )

[@miathytran]

Can you do a video on contact dermatitis?

[@dellajones9727]

Yeah I learned my lesson the hard way with this lol I had so many peel off lol but my issue was the lamp I was using wasn’t strong enough to cure black white or any other color for that matter. And capping the end is important too. Thanks for the video💅🏾

[@diy_cat9817]

Huh.. you know, now that you mention it.. my lamp is old. My gel used to stay on better and I doubt I was better at applying it then.. I think you just changed my game.

[@leileengarcia1378]

You are amazing 😍 Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us

[@mrscball-andrews3642]

Thank you 😊 for this very helpful info, you have cleared up some questions I had 💕💕 xxx

[@michellepelekis3945]

Thank you for the information. I’m new to using gel. This is so important to know. 😁👍🏻

[@laurencrowder5587]

I needed this video been doing my nails at home but they just peel off! Thank you so much! 🥰🥰🥰

[@kimberlibyrns8270]

What kind of tips do you use. I looked but didnt see that in your description. Thanks for all your videos! Adore you!

[@princessgypzy]

Thank you so much for this video. I do my own nails. So I do a lot of guess work.I’ve no one to ask all my “dumb” questions. Your videos are so helpful. And I really dig your funky style. 🤘😜💚🖤♥️💅🏻

[@iamola_o]

I love you so much 💗 Thank you for this wonderful knowledge about curing etc. I really enjoyed it 😊 And you're so funny 😄

[@stacygrundy1798]

Thankyou kirsty.. good advice.. just started doing my own nails.. and had a few wrinkles on some.. and smudgey ones.. uncured! now I know why!! 🙄 Love your videos!

[@emmaatkins3957]

Hi I was just wondering what curing lamp would you recommend, thank you. Love your videos

[@Anon-lz1qy]

I’m not a professional I do my nails at home but have had a mylee lamp I bought off amazon for £30 over a year ago and it’s still fine

[@blazin_kitty]

Can you do more in depth how to videos on how to do full sets for like beginners who haven’t gone to beauty school or anything lol. I absolutely love watching your videos!!!!!! I always watch your videos if I have questions or concerns lol your a wonderful teacher! Much love from the states❤️❤️XXX

[@65silvanina]

Thank you for a great video ❤️ Question: What Watt LED lamp do you recommend? There's a jungle out there with different Watt LED lamps. I used to use UV for gel polish and hard gel - no problem with 2min. Now I have 48 Watt LED, but it doesn't cure as it should!! So please, advice on amount of Watt in LED lamp! I do cure recommended times 😉

[@MissJuicy2thicc]

You would want something above like 50 watts to get the best curing times

[@65silvanina]

@@MissJuicy2thicc Thanks ❤️ So I've ordered 70 - 80 Watts now to try them out 😉

[@TheSjay101]

120 W

[@tashspond]

If hard gel over cures what about the "soak off" acrygels/Polygel?

[@igernannia52]

I am a new subscriber just want to say hello and I really think nail techs are so dope because it's so hard I am new and I'm starting out this whole nail thing

[@natalieseymour8073]

Yess Kirsty always love the videos love you girl ❤️

[@janahoffmann2878]

I was waiting for this video that is so helping me!❤️

[@cindydebruyn787]

Hi Kirsty, really enjoyed you videos. I have a question regarding Poly gel " Acry gel" can you over cure them?

[@sarahkennett9397]

I LOVE THIS CHANNEL! ❤️❤️❤️

[@nakeasimone13]

I just started following the channel and do Naio Nails have a beginners kit that includes gel polishes, acrylic powders, brushes, files, and glitters?

[@amandanichole2660]

Wonderful video! Is it best to do a thin top coat as well?

[@ItsMeDee60]

Very good info. Thanks for sharing.

[@fashionforwardmom]

is it possible to over cure? i always go 60sec up to 120sec is that wrong?

[@sabrinali6538]

No

[@livie_liv6196]

Hi Kirsty (sorry if I spelled it wrong) I was wondering could you do a video called “5 reasons why my regular nail polish is not drying” ? This would help me so much! Thanks if you see this, Like so she can see! 😊❤️

[@melissadiarnefarmer]

They don’t use ‘regular polish’ on this channel

[@leanda1971]

Some Nail Polish Can take 24 Hours to Fully Dry before it or Not .. You used to be able to get little drying machines ( Battery Powered) that helped a little..

[@sannekoot7267]

Check ou SimplyNailLogical, Cristine only uses regular nail polish.

[@SantaMonicaGhoul]

Try putting a fast dry top coat such as Sally Hansen Insta Dri, it will be completely dry in 5 minutes or less.

[@lisebetta]

If your nail polish is old, it will not dry. It will always be tacky even with a newer top coat. If it has an odd scent that is noticeable, chances are the chemicals are breaking down and it won't dry. If you've bought and it's separated, chances are it will not dry well, if at all. I still use regular nail polish. Better brands are really better. But, be careful if buying from the markdown bin!

[@Love2Bake4U]

I always see you working with that magnetic stand and pedestals for nails. Where can I get it?! Thanks! Your videos are amazing!!

[@thetattooedmermaidyolanda7299]

Can you answer this kirsty? I've been told not to let your clients use any hand sanitizer at all during the service as it can cause lifting. Is there any way you can test this please?

[@philtirah]

You make me wish so badly I could use ANY gel product. What is in it that causes the irritation? Even a teeny tiny spot on the skin.... I received a gift that had a gel product in it that had leaked. I wiped everything down with in moments and cleaned hands thoroughly after. That little but of exposure ended up in itchy fingertips and blisters for over a week. Ugh I cant imagine paying for a mani and getting dermatitis because the nail tech didnt cure the gel polish properly. Ugh. Thanks again! Ps...what is it that gets folks like me about gel products?

[@thenailnursery3082]

Sometimes I have trouble with the gel polish or even the too coat creating these little holes while I'm coating the nail with it. What would be causing that?

[@leanda1971]

Thankyou so much Kirsty..💕

[@Ctownqt8]

About halfway I got concerned Adam wasn't there 😂

[@ferideeryilmazz]

Ok question if you have a uv/led lamp how long do you cure the polish for which time ? Led or up ?

[@ferideeryilmazz]

Or UV

[@michellecrippen2966]

Most lamps now are uv and led so go with the led time if you’re sure it’s led. Hope that helps. I’m not a tech just been doing my own for awhile 😀

[@xiomairalindsay]

Led: 30s & UV:120s

[@sandrasanchez8681]

Could you do an outfit reveal in the beginning of your videos? You have the best style it would be so cool to see it in full affect 😍

[@corteltube]

Excellent..thanks..you are fabulous

[@susiebennington5482]

First off... your are beautiful! What are those tinsel in your hair .. and lastly.. I WISH YOU WERE HERE IN THE USA! I’d die for you to do my nails!!!💜

[@jooolz]

I was a model for nail tech students and after we finished the set with gel polish I went home without any issues. Later, I was chewing on my nails and all of a sudden the gel polish wasn't cured underneath and popped into my mouth. Even at home, I make sure to cure as long as I can, I don't ever want to experience that again lol

[@briannerobinson7978]

Thank you for your help Naio Nails!

[@Budgie-Vic]

Great video. Can I ask you about a new video of yours I’ve watched on Facebook please ‘red nail with holly leaves’. I don’t understand how the excess green & berry red can be removed if you have cured the top coat. Am I being a bit thick?😆. How come the excess colour can be removed with acetone? I’m new to this! I’m confused .com. Thanks I’ve learned so much for my home application from you. Xx

[@Dragon01973]

What gel light/lamp do you recommend? Do you have a link & is it available on Amazon?

[@caitlingreen6217]

I have a LED/UV combined lamp off Amazon and I've just purchased some naio gel polishes! What curing time would I need?

[@lponails1270]

So helpful! You rock!

[@sammienorvill990]

Hi Kirsty and Adam... Yet another great video... and for me the timing couldn't be any better... I've just treated myself to some gel polishes... Could you tell me if I need to add dehydrator and primer please...??? After seeing you use these on other videos for acrylics that you do I bought some for the gel polish... Is this going to be overkill or will it be detrimental to the gel polish... I've tried to do my nails in gel polish before and I just put a thick coat on with top coat and cured but a few days later it started to lift and then peeled off in one go... So I'd like to do it properly from now on as after years of biting my nails I managed to stop in January this year and I'm loving having nails but they're a little on the weak side as I used to bite them til I bled... Much love Sammie xx

[@patriciavargo5741]

Thank you for this video, I have had issues in the past with peeling, is there an issue with putting 2 top coats.

[@NobleMoments]

I do super thin layers on my black. The bottle says 30 seconds but it never fully cures so i do 60 seconds and wait. I have such a hard time with the black that ive got. And my top coat is so thin and floods at the cutical before i get it in the lamp.

[@FalconryMagic]

Does that happen with a Naio product or does it happen with any that you use? x

[@sannekoot7267]

I've noticed that the flooding is down to the quality of the product, I always go over the reviews and look up done videos of people working with the product before I buy anything of a new brand I'm interested in and that's helped a lot. Also, more expensive products are not of better quality per se.

[@b.channa.]

Is it better to over cure than under cure?

[@monethug6071]

KIRSTY I HAVE 2 QUESTIONS: 1. If the client takes her hand out the lamp for a few seconds (for many many annoying reasons) and than puts it back in, does it harm the curing process? 2. If I see at the end, after I wiped the top coat , that it is not shiny enough and a bit sticky, putting the hand back for another 30 sec helps to cure it better or did f**ked my whole work? THANK YOU LOVE YOU

[@MarissaRodriguez12]

Can you do a video on encapsulating gel polish with clear acrylic?!? ❤️❤️❤️

[@melissaotero4506]

I love your design

[@deloresmontoya2173]

Kristie thanks this was an awesome video