glitter & gel

[Bettierae]

Hi, I was just wondering which method most the most popular with gel geeks when it comes to glitter gels? I'm going to convert to brisa gel in about three weeks. I'm going to invest in the bolds and shimmers, but I want to be able to offer glitter gel too. I use ezflow l+p and have all the boogie nights, and I also mix microglitters with pink or clear powder and store them in little jars. I have over a hundred glitters and colours, and I'm keen to offer plenty of choice with my gel too.

If I bought clear or pink brisa gel, would it be wise to premix small amounts of my popular glitters and store in little pots? or is it best to mix as you go? I have been reading thread after thread and it seems like hardly anyone premixes and stores! I'm probably way off the mark. All I'm worrying about is really that when it comes to rebalance, or a client requesting the same glitter another time, If i've mixed one just there and then, that I wont be able to get the same density, or colour. hope this makes sense!

Also do any of you find nail graphix mix well with gel? I use a few with acrylic and they are great, with gel, would I still mix to the line with clear/pink brisa? Many thanks in advance x

 

[RedAdmiral]

I think anything mixes with gel just make sure that when using dark colours that you sculpt so the light can cure underneath the enhancement. I find that when using YN Illum 1&2 range which are dark, heavily pigmented glitters that if I use a normal natural tip the glitter can 'peel' off. I very rarely use glitter straight from the pot and like yourself I mix several together resulting in hundreds of mixes! I never pre-mix as its hard enough storing the ones I have so i just add a dollop to a form, mix in the glitter and use what I need. Also I ask the client what they want - are they looking to try glitter tips or do they want them permanently glitter. I find that doing a one colour overlay then adding a glitter tip is the fastest and easiest removed way.
Its not hard to rebalance - to know what mix you made, label them. Write on clients record card or have a mix sheet on yor computer.

 

[Bagpuss]

I use gel and mainly use Nail Graphix glitters...I don't mix though. I apply clear gel...then dab on glitter and then cure...then seal with another layer of clear gel.

There are now some great glitter gels out there...all the work is done for you...just apply and cure.