MaryAnnMast
MaryAnn
Hey, geeks! This is my first post & I hope I get it right as well as the answers to my questions
I have/had gotten my nails done with acrylics for years. I just never got good at doing them especially on myself.
About a year ago my health made it impossible to go to the salon to have them done but I remembered watching gels done next to me & thought they looked a lot easier than acrylics. So, when I became stuck at home I decided to research gel products.
I decided on Gelish.
I watched a video that was pretty informative except for the fact it said I could use structure with tips--no builder; just foundation, structure (or polish) & top coat--needless to say they didn't last more than a few days. This method has been referred to as "Party Nails" btw because they're good for a special occasion but not long term.
They always broke at the tip, but stayed on my natural nail until I took it off. That being said--my prep must be pretty good... No?
Now that I'm 90% sure of what to do; should I use both dehydrator & primer? I know they always did with my acrylics. If so should I dehydrate my entire nail after buffing but before the tip or put on the tip, dehydrate, & prime the natural nail only? Does the primer go on the tip? I don't seem to recall that ever happening but should it go on the tip for gel?
Also, my nail beds are flat & I prefer them on the thicker side. Can I use fiberglass in between builds for strength & thickness at the apex?
If I finish with the structure will that smooth everything out for the most part (hate having to file for a shape--could never get it right). Then file, buff & top coat... Right?
I've left out several what I'd call basic steps but I can give the whole routine once I have these questions answered.
Thank you so much for your time & any help with these questions!
XxOo
I have/had gotten my nails done with acrylics for years. I just never got good at doing them especially on myself.
About a year ago my health made it impossible to go to the salon to have them done but I remembered watching gels done next to me & thought they looked a lot easier than acrylics. So, when I became stuck at home I decided to research gel products.
I decided on Gelish.
I watched a video that was pretty informative except for the fact it said I could use structure with tips--no builder; just foundation, structure (or polish) & top coat--needless to say they didn't last more than a few days. This method has been referred to as "Party Nails" btw because they're good for a special occasion but not long term.
They always broke at the tip, but stayed on my natural nail until I took it off. That being said--my prep must be pretty good... No?
Now that I'm 90% sure of what to do; should I use both dehydrator & primer? I know they always did with my acrylics. If so should I dehydrate my entire nail after buffing but before the tip or put on the tip, dehydrate, & prime the natural nail only? Does the primer go on the tip? I don't seem to recall that ever happening but should it go on the tip for gel?
Also, my nail beds are flat & I prefer them on the thicker side. Can I use fiberglass in between builds for strength & thickness at the apex?
If I finish with the structure will that smooth everything out for the most part (hate having to file for a shape--could never get it right). Then file, buff & top coat... Right?
I've left out several what I'd call basic steps but I can give the whole routine once I have these questions answered.
Thank you so much for your time & any help with these questions!
XxOo