STEP-BY-STEP GEL NAIL LESSONS - Lesson #4) Combining Gel With Fiber Wraps

STEP-BY-STEP GEL NAIL LESSONS - Lesson #4) Combining Gel With Fiber Wraps
ADDING FIBERWRAPS TO GEL NAILS

Explanation of gels and fiber: No, I am not using a gel w/ fiber already in it (like LE’s Fabrique). I am referring to sandwiching fiber-wraps like silk or fiberglass in between layers of gel (ANY U-V GEL!)....The fiber I like is Star Nails silk in the rollout box dispenser, and I like my stores scissors www.gelnails.com, cut well, and cheap enough to throw out (rather than have sharpened) when they get dull (actually I retire them to the "paper forms dept", for cutting out the backs of and customizing forms as needed..... I have an acrylic clear box form holder/dispenser (from LCN), and I just tuck the scissors in next to the roll.

I lay down one coat of REGULAR gel then cure 1 complete cycle. Then I place and PAT down a piece of fiber (glass or silk) into tacky residue until it disappears, (pick up fiber with "sticky" gel nail brush),and cure again (about 1/2 a reg. cure). Then I lay down another coat of gel over this as usual, adding any arches, etc, that may be needed, and cure again as usual. Now, finish as usual: wipe w/ alcohol and shape and bevel, buff etc....

1) When using fiber in conjunction w/ white free edge gel over a form (vs using over the natural nail or a tip w/ clear gel)....1st apply form, apply 1 thin coat of gel to remaining nail, cure 1 full cycle, apply white gel to area needed----entire free edge, chipped corner, etc., cure 1 full cycle, apply piece of fiber large enough to bridge from extended area (or cracked area) back over to rest of nail (but not too big to hang off nail or touch sidewalls or cuticle or not able to lay down!), pat in to tacky residue from last cure until it disappears, cure again to cement in place (30 sec's or so), now continue w/ at least one more coat of gel as usual.

2) Fiber MUST always be sandwiched between layers of gel...my preferred method is to lay it into cured gel residue, re-cure, and apply another layer.... Some manufacturers will tell you to lay it into an uncured layer of gel...well try it, you'll see what happens...gel floats to top and you have fibers sticking out, fiber slides around before gel cures, gel ends up in sidewalls because you spend too much time fiddling with the fiber and the gel is already MOVING! Also, I worry about GEL NOT COMPLETELY CURING BECAUSE OF SOME OF THE U-V LIGHT BEING OBSCURED OR REFLECTED AWAY BY THE FIBERGLASS (or silk). For these reasons, I personally like to place my fiber into CURED GEL ONLY. (However, as always, and with any technique... you may find another way of doing it that you like better and that works better for you personally!)

3) Hint: to remove a lot of extra gel that may have run a round on the form, (after it has cured) use STRAIGHT (not regular curved) BLADED toe nail clippers (I carry them in my store here if you can’t find them elsewhere or locally) to remove excess gel easily(PUT ON THOSE SAFETY GLASSES (which you should ALREADY have on anyway, if you need a reminder--- and I also carry those in the store!!!!!!), AND WATCH THE CLIENTS SKIN!) Now, straighten and taper sidewalls appropriately, without a ton of filing!

This procedure I've described is great for:

1)whole nail extensions (short ones, 25% or so), at F/S or repairs at fills (done w/ either white gel for F/S or even clear gel on forms (for 1 nail or repair).... the fiber clouds up the gel just enough to be un-noticeable on short extensions or corner chips.... or missing sidewalls....

2)cracks that go all the way thru to the natural nail bed (wipe/ FLUSH crack w/ alcohol 1st----yes, it will burn, so she (client may want to delay procedure, oooouch, the pain they/we will endure for their/our nails!), and be sure there are no other underlying pathogens to lock in, and seal w/ the tiniest bit of nail glue first (crazy glue/nail glue is safe for skin in small amts, in fact INVENTED for skin for soldiers in Vietnam to prevent infection of bleeding injuries while in the jungle and too far from med station to survive bacteria in jungle alive!). This will prevent gel from seeping into crack onto skin where it won't cure and only irritate! So sanitize, glue, 1 coat gel, cure, fiber, set, more gel, cure, wipe, and finish work!!!!!

3) Even nails that are completely broken off can use this procedure, use the tiniest bit of glue to hold broken nail piece to remaining nail., put a form under for support, and Voila--- re-attachment ---but be sure to add extra fiber to sidewalls as well or crack will re-start and take over eventually!)

4) Also good for sidewall repairs w/ forms (nails that have become too "skinny" or tapered too close to stress area (hyponychium area), or for replacing chips missing off of corners of free edge, etc...

STEP-BY-STEP GEL NAIL LESSONS - Lesson #3) Fill-In Procedures/Maintenance of gel Nails

STEP-BY-STEP GEL NAIL LESSONS - Lesson #3) Fill-In Procedures/Maintenance of gel Nails

Lesson #3) Fill-In Procedures/Maintenance of gel Nails....

Gel Nails Fill-In: Basic Procedure.
No breaks or repairs needed, not with "pink and white" (or permanent French Manicure as I call it). Those fill-in lessons to come soon! (These procedures best when used with thin viscosity or 1-component type gels. For thicker viscosity or builder type gels, you will need to make some adaptations.) Remember, these are GENERIC instructions for you to use and adapt to your own personal style and product line. See your manufacturers guide for product specific application instructions and other pertinent info.

1) Standard Prep: Wash hands, sanitize, remove polish, push back cuticles, etc......

2) Shorten nails; with tip cutter (my method, straight across square for now, shaping of nail comes later), by hand file, or drill. Nails should be maintained at a steady and consistent length. Clients should be encouraged to pick their ideal length and then stick with it. That requires that the nails be shortened the amount that they grew between fill appointments.

3) Preliminary shaping of nails: Put preliminary shape into nails so that the rebalance filing done in the next step reflects the proper shape. I use my drill to quickly go through the nails and "round" them for those clients who wear them rounded or ‘squoval’, or any shape not squared (or do this step with a hand file if you don't use a drill)

4) Re-balance nail. File the entire top of the nail either by hand or with a drill (I prefer a drill). Arches need to be moved BACK so gel needs to be thinned and beveled at the free edge to accommodate the new arch -placement. Entire gel surface needs to be thinned (and shine removed for new gel to adhere), to keep nail from becoming too thick with application of additional gel. If using a drill use a medium diamond bit or sanding band on a mandrel. Carbides are overkill with gels!

5) Blend cuticle area. I use a diamond football bit (med) to help blend the outgrowth of the old gel. (Do NOT drill on the natural nail outgrowth with the drill)

6) If using a drill (electric file), I still go back through the cuticle area with a file to hand file and bevel the cuticle area, and remove shine from the natural nail outgrowth (because the drill is NOT used on the natural nail), be sure all cuticle and contaminants are removed to ensure good adhesion.

7) Final shaping of nail: Tailor and taper (as needed) the sidewalls and put the final shape into the free-edge. Hold client's hand facing you, vertically, to really see the shaping.

8) Dust nail thoroughly (I use a surgical scrub brush, see hints and tips and FAQ's for more info about this.)

9) Pre-prime and prime as necessary or needed. (i.e. pH balancers, or scrub fresh, or wiping with alcohol.... then primers such as MAP, BX, or primer gels). If using a separate liquid primer (MAP or BX), apply to new nail growth only and let it dry. If using a primer gel, apply to new growth area and cure in U-V light as recommended by your manufacturer. (See full-set lesson and acrylics page for instructions, and more detailed info on types of primers, how to choose, and how to use.)

10) Apply 1 thin coat of gel to nail. Concentrate on new growth area, and "scrub" the gel in. Then pull gel out over entire nail. This coat is very thin. CURE in U-V light.

11) Apply 2nd (and last) coat of gel* more generously than 1st. Add arches** with this coat of gel. Cure.*Let gel brush float the gel on and be sure to seal end of nails by letting brush "fall off" the end of the nail as you apply. Be sure when applying this coat of gel to set your brush down just short of the cuticle, then push gel toward cuticle and pull back without ever lifting your brush. This will help to eliminate a ridge at the cuticle. **For more on how to add arches to gel see the full-set lesson.

12) Examine nails for flaws and re-apply any gel NOW if needed, otherwise, CLEANSE with cleanser or alcohol (99%). Set down lint-free wipe saturated with cleanser at the cuticle and pull away from cuticle, dropping off the free-edge.

13) Sidewall finishing: Lay the file in the grove, and pull out to be sure there is not gel in the groove and to taper the sidewalls for thickness as needed (very little if any!), and re-check free-edge shape.

14) Cuticle beveling: Gently bevel the cuticle area.

15) Check contour of top of nail, and file as needed.

16) Buff out nail to remove shine and do final contouring. (Polish sticks better to a "dull" surface than it does to the super high-gloss of a gel nail). Oily or wet buff at this time if that is your normal finishing procedure.

17) Send client to wash-up! Take her payment, book her next appointment, then polish her and send her to the dryers.

18) DONE! Total time: Super Pro=30 to 45 mins (not every tech achieves this time frame), Experienced= 45 to 60 mins, Intermediate= 50 mins to 1 hr 10 mins, Novice/Beginner= 60 minutes to 90 minutes! Regularly under 30 minutes? You are not doing a complete rebalance and you will pay the price later in total service break down!!!! (Also known as a "fluff fill-in”, basically nothing more than a buff and polish change. A disservice to the client and our industry!)

Look for more info to be added to this section soon!

Big SdP A + ' Hearts and Swirls '

Hey Ladies!I got some new plates today...and i couldn't wait to try them out!Here's what I came up with =).For this manicure I used:- Models Own - Coral Reef.- Konad Special White Polish.- Big SdP A  Plate.I got all 7 big Plates released by Shirley for €15.99 each.These plates are so fantastic! - I actually found them a pleasure to use =).I'm very impressed with how the image transferred onto my nails.Each pattern is very well designed.I found it much easier to use the SdP plate then my round plates =-/ .I am soo happy i got these plates and can see me using them a lot!.Here is a video Shirley made for her Big SdP range /Enjoy =).Thanks for reading!/Hugs!xxx**Please note that I paid the invoiced amount in full for my plates. I do not endorse nor promote this website/etailer other than I am passing on the info of where I got them to those who may wish to know. I have no affiliation with any company and received no compensation for promotion of these products, nor am I promoting them...just letting fellow bloggers where they may be obtained should they be interested.

STEP-BY-STEP GEL NAIL LESSONS - Lesson #2) Full-Set Sculpted Gel Nails With Forms.......

STEP-BY-STEP GEL NAIL LESSONS - Lesson #2) Full-Set Sculpted Gel Nails With Forms.......

Part A: Using clear gels only
Part B: Using White Free Edge

PART A) The following "Full-Set with Clear Gel" method can be used for "transfers"*, full-sets, overlays, or fill-ins with major service breakdown!(*Transfers from acrylic to gel or from one tech to another)
1)Prep natural nails as usual AND/OR file off old product, and file entire nail thin and flush, be careful to NOT file on the natural nail.

2)Do rest of prep work (dust, prime, etc), apply forms. (Do not shorten her natural nails or "even" them out. Keep as much of each natural nail free edge as you can, you will "even" them up with the gel as needed.)

3)1 coat of gel on entire nail and slightly out onto form. Cure. (see gel nail lesson above for gel application methods)If you need to actually build a SHORT free edge, draw a box with a line of gel from one sidewall straight out to length desired and back down to meet other sidewall, then "pull" gel back and forth to fill in box thinly.

4)Lay down fiber from mid nail bed out past free edge onto form (to help "hold" the slight extension, and to reinforce stress zone of the nail to help prevent future breakage). Pat fiber in till "gone". Cure.

5)Lay down coat #2 of gel, over entire nail again and out onto form as in first coat. Add slight arching and top "C" curve (convex)for strength, beauty, and natural look, by using "ribbon" or "tail" method with "thin" gel (described in gel nail lesson above)or building it with builder gels (depends on the brand gel you use!). Cure.

6)Remove forms. Apply 3rd coat of gel (final coat usually in a full set, some techs need to use more coats though if they lay down their gel too thin),with more arching as needed. Cure.

7)Cure upside down one cycle. Cleanse nails.

8)Use straight edge toe nail clippers to clip off any "stray" gel to make free edge shape, and sidewalls straight, or file by hand.

9)Shape and finish nails as usual, shape free edge, perfect sidewall taper, bevel cuticle, sidewalls and free edge, adjust top surface arches etc, use drill for concave of "C" curve as needed(Underside of nail if gel seeped under forms), buff till smooth as you would any acrylic nail. (Buff out and polish, or buff out and a gloss coat if preferred) 

PART B) Building Full-Set Gel Nails Over Forms With WHITE Free-Edge Gel.....
1) Prep nails as usual, prime, apply forms.

2) Apply 1 coat of gel to natural nail only. Cure.

3) Apply white gel onto form and overlapping natural nail as needed (depends on the length of ther natural nails), being sure to make a nice smile line with the white. Use the "drawing a box" method described above to make the white free edge on the form.

4) Optional: Add fiber at this time if desired, bridging it over the clear onto the white. (see above and below lessons for more step-by-steps on adding fiber to gels). Cure fiber for at least 30 sec before continuing.

5) Apply 2nd coat of clear gel to entire nail (clear nail bed and white sculpted nail on form), adding arching as appropriate. Cure.

6) Remove forms. Apply 3rd (final) coat of gel with more arching as needed. Cure.

7) Cure nails upside down for 1 complete cycle.

8) Cleanse nails with cleanser or 99% alcohol on a lint free wipe. Do not rub residue into skin. Lay down the wipe at cuticle, and pull off nail in one firm stroke. Move to a new section of wipe and continue with other nails. Don't forget to wipe the backs of the gel extensions as well when needed!

9) Do finish work as above (shape, taper, contour, bevel, buff, etc).....

10) Now either polish or apply gloss coat!

GLOSS COAT Application:
After doing finish work to ensure nails are perfect, you must also remove all glossy surfaces remaining. Dust very well. Apply gloss coat thinly and evenly, examine nails carefully for full coverage and to be sure there are no streaks or air bubbles. When the nail is perfect CURE. Wipe with cleanser and you are done. For MINOR imperfections in gloss coat use a 3 or 4 way buffer gently in the spot of the imperfection. For MAJOR imperfections in gloss coat, buff it out and start over again on the affected nails.

Gel Gloss Coat over Airbrushing:
(WARNING, THIS IS NOT AS EASY AS IT SOUNDS!!!!) Be sure paint is very dry, and apply gel with brush parallel to the nail and a very light touch, being sure to pull out and over the free edge. Cure and wipe with cleanser. To remove, simply file it off (gel and paint) as you prepare for the next fill. Between fills, simple polish over it.
This lesson and others are "under construction" and will be added here as soon as they are ready!.....See lesson #4 for some ideas and insight into this procedure in the meantime!

    

source: nailspalsh.com

Fathers Day Coloring Pages 2011

Before I give the father's day coloring pages, I want to tell you a bit about this special day. A friend sent me an invitation to celebrate the father's day on my facebook account, who is commemorated on the third week of this month.The first thing that comes to mind when receiving event invitations on my facebook, my own father. Hmm, how happy if you still have a father. I've heard people say this "I'm not jealous of your possessions, your accomplishments, with the rank you ... I'm just jealous of you who still have a father". The role of the father is no less important as a mother.Sometimes a child is more reluctant towards his father and more obedient to his father. I still remember when I was in school first level, I complained to my father cry for a fight with a friend.He is not the father who would not necessarily defend his seat without knowing the case, I even scolded and admonished. My father taught me that hands down. My father always spoke the language well. Some sentences are very still remember: Do not be the first leader to be retarded just because you're lazy! Dig a pit grave if you do not want to obey the instruction You know, your parents are the God that you see Remember these three words into your life: for help, thank you, sorry ... I'm sure you would be welcome in the association community at large Be honest in every job, a better person to hire honest people than smart people, but fraudsters If you want to succeed it must be disciplined And there are many more words of advice from him is a guideline for me to live. So no one if I called my dad as a "book" to me. If there is reincarnation then again, so I want to say to my dad let's pray together that God will put our position in place of the same ... I as your son and you as a father ... and we fix what ever was wrong ... we replay the moment it's beautiful moments ... and we make the relationship between me and you more than ever ... we have not had time to do the things we do ...Happy father's day. And now, its time to download our father's day coloring pages.

NOTD - Pink Leopard Print "Inspired"

So today i did a pink leopard print & i got the inspiration from my hair straightener!i didnt have a pale pink but i used the lightest pink i had. im really loving this look its my first time trying the leopard print freehand =]heres what i used :my franken pink as a base colorLA Colors - Bright PinkWet N Wild Black Cremebase & top coat from Nailaid

STEP-BY-STEP GEL NAIL LESSONS - Lesson #1)....GEL NAIL FULL-SET OVER TIPS....

STEP-BY-STEP GEL NAIL LESSONS - Lesson #1)....GEL NAIL FULL-SET OVER TIPS....
1) Prep nails And APPLY TIPS: remove shine*, dust, oils, etc from nail. Apply tips if desired now, being sure to blend well, then dust again. Apply dehydrator and/or sanitizer and/or pH balancer as needed. (Gel does not stick to "shiny", so gently remove shiny oil surface from natural nail. This does not mean etching or roughing up the nail, only gentle removal of oil and contaminants that interfere with adhesion. A fine grit file or buffer is all that is needed. Removal of pterygium is a different matter, which may require a less gentle touch to eradicate!)

2) Primer: use very thin coat of "primer gel" or "basecoat " that came w/ your kit and cure (FOR TWICE AS LONG AS THE MANUFACTURER TELLS YOU TO ) OR use MAP (methacrylic acid primer) choose brand and strength according to needs, OR use BX (a "non-acid primer" such as OPI Bondex, or others on the market) SEE HOW TO PICK A PRIMER in acrylic nails page.

Let primer dry! When using "separate" primer (not basecoat primer gel), then only put primer on natural nail, not on the tip...w/ a primer gel, follow that manufacturers instructions as to whether or not to get it on the tip!

3-A) Application over tips:(Free-form application below, but first get the hang of manipulating the gels!) apply 1st coat of gel thinly, over natural nail and entire tip! Being sure to get to edges w/out getting into cuticles or touching skin. CURE. If using LCN lamp then 1 cycle 1.5 mins is enough, any other lamp, cure for minimum of 3 minutes for this first coat of gel!

3-B) Apply second coat, a little thicker than 1st. Pick up "bead of gel" on one side of flat brush (synthetic) and hold brush parallel to nail (HORIZONTAL. Not Vertical, Not up and down, NOT like a pencil), hold it flat over the nail. Put brush w/ gel down short of the cuticle area, and then PUSH toward cuticle slightly (this will prevent big cuticle ridge from forming! Now pull brush (still flat and parallel to nail) back toward you, from cuticle to free edge. Do not let brush actually touch the nail, it FLOATS on the nail on the cushion of gel! Pull out and over (drop off) free edge. Now go back w. flat brush to right side and pull gel around the horse shoe and down the right side, being sure to get gel as close as possible to side wall without touching sidewalls. (Gel will absolutely lift if it touches the skin, it also shrinks as it cures, causing a bit of a paradox---how to get it close enough to give strength to the sidewalls, BUT prevent it from running into the sidewalls and lifting..... Now finish up on the left side as you did the right. Cure for 1.5 to 2 minutes.

3-C) Coat # 3,. Same as #2 except we'll do 4 fingers 1st and then thumb...stay w/ me here...apply gel to 4 fingers again as in step 2, now pick up a "string"(See TAIL technique in lesson 5 below for more specifics) of gel and lay it down the center of the nail, starting about 1/5 up from cuticle to 1/5 short of end of nail. The slower you lay down your string, the more gel you leave behind (and vice versa) so use this knowledge when building the stress area...the gel will continue MOVING after you lay it, so for novices you may want to set up each finger for approx 15 to 20 seconds between gel apps (that is long enough to harden the gel to a ‘jello’ consistency so it won't move on you any more, and we'll cure it later. *INFO ABOUT THE DIFFERANCE BETWEEN HARDENING AND CURING IN SECTIONS BELOW, ALSO EXPLANATION OF THE CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS OF "BURNING" (slow down chemical reactions by going into the light for 4 seconds, and out for 3, until set-up process (‘jello’ stage) is completed, also pressing pads of fingers on firm surface, or squeezing the finger also can help.

So you now have gel on all 4 fingers, and finally the thumb as well, now cure for 1 complete cycle again.

4) Inspect all nails, check for thin spots, etc, that may need more gel (some novices are "GEL SHY" and actually need to do 4-5-6 coats of gel to build up properly---whatever it takes---we want them thin at the free edge and cuticle and reinforced properly at the stress area (just like a traditional liquid/powder acrylic nail) (More in lessons below about adding Fiberglass or silks for strength with the gel). If you have added more gel at this point then cure as needed (at least one 1 1/2 minute cycle)

5) Wipe tacky/sticky (dispersion) layer off nails with gel cleanser (or 99% alcohol) being sure NOT to re-wipe the sticky stuff onto the skin of the next nail. (use separate sections of your wipe for each nail, that’s why I like Martex cocktail napkins or generic paper towels, big enough to do the whole job w/ just 1 (instead of 10!) If too much tacky stuff is coming off then gel did not cure---check your bulbs for dirt (wipe w/alcohol) or they may just be burned out! Note, once alcohol or cleanser has touched a nail you CANNOT apply more gel w/out first rebuffing to take shine off of the gel---gel will not stick to glossy gel, only tacky gel or non-shiny gel!

6) Now do final finish work...contrary to popular belief GEL NAILS can and in most cases SHOULD be finished and not just left as so! They are COMPLETELY cured (unlike their traditional acrylic cousins, so you cannot damage them. They are completely non-porous as well; so bevel the cuticle area and sidewalls, check the curves across the top of the nail and file accordingly as needed, do finishing work just as you would on an acrylic nail (but being gentler, remember gels are "softer" and easier to file than traditional acrylics). Send client to wash and then you are ready to polish as usual, or apply only topcoat for a natural look, or if you must apply a super thin coat of gel, cure, wipe, and now go permanently glossy! (More on permanent gloss coats and perm French Manicures (pink and whites at a future lesson! Also more on the differences between hardening and curing in section THREE of this page....there is just soooooo much information.......

Short version of Full-Set over tips.
1) Normal prep steps, apply tips, primer etc...

2) Apply 1st coat of gel thinly to nails. Cure.

2) Apply 2nd coat of gel, adding arches. Cure.

3) Apply 3rd coat of gel with additional arching. Cure.

4) Cleanse nails.

5) Do finish work; shape, taper, bevel, contour as needed. Buff till smooth.

6) Proceed to polish (wash first) or gloss coat application as desired (wash AFTER!). (Gloss coat directions in FS over forms section, at the end.)

MORE Info about Gel Nails - Introduction to "gel nails"

MORE Info about Gel Nails - Introduction to "gel nails"

Gel Nails are the future of the nail industry! Europe is already 90% GELS, the USA will be too within 10 years! Gels are and will be the "hot" service that clients demand. No other service can give clients both a natural nails look and feel combined with the convenience and durability of acrylic nails. Many clients have tired of acrylic nails in this past decade because of the disadvantages that can be associated with them (such as the odors and lifting and nail damage, etc) . These same clients now flock to salons in record numbers for "natural nail" manicures with many spa type add-ons to increase the ticket price. BUT…. Many of these clients have already grown weary of the weekly appointments and rigorous home maintenance requirements of "natural" nails. They want another alternative; they want natural beauty combined with strength and durability. Now you can give clients what they want…… Gel nails ARE the best of both worlds!

 

Gel nails are not just a service; Gel Nails are a philosophy…….
Immediate gratification and a healthy nail philosophy! Instant length and beauty can be achieved at the first visit by utilizing tips or forms in the gel nail full-set. The ultimate long-term goal with gels is for the client to end up growing out and wearing her (or his!) own long, strong, beautiful, HEALTHY nails under the gel; so that she is no longer to be considered wearing artificial nails, but with the gel becoming essentially just a very strong, bonded base coat to protect her own nails from cracking, splitting, peeling, chipping, etc. She is now wearing a nail enhancement, not "fake" nails, and the enhancement need never be removed, only maintained on a regular schedule! Just as hair color is an enhancement of her natural hair, not "fake" hair, and can be maintained indefinitely. Gel nail enhancements ARE the client's own natural nail…. ONLY BETTER! And gels are totally compatible and complementary to other salon add-on services such as paraffin wax or hand facials, to complete the total hand beauty regimen.

 

Clients want and are willing to pay for "high end" services
Just as the top department stores have defined a separate niche for themselves from the "mart" stores, so will Gel Nails be distinguished from many other nail care services. I believe Gel Nails will never be a "discount" service offered in a "discount salon" atmosphere. Gel Nails are a long term, lifestyle choice. Gel Nails are meant to be a permanent solution to hand and nail beauty, not a temporary quick-fix. Gel Nail philosophy is not compatible with the type of consumer looking for only a quick fix of short term or temporary nails (i.e. "party nails"). Every market has market segmentation, which is good for the providers and for the consumers. While some salons will always cater to quantity sales (i.e. "party nails" and walk-in type business), the Gel Nail philosophy demands commitment and planning and so will attract a clientele that is compatible with that service level. Just as Nieman Marcus does not "compete" with K-Mart, neither do Gel Nail salons compete with discount salons. Two very different market segments. Two very different service levels and service providers! Two very different prices!

 

Benefits of Gel Nails:
1) Odorless
2) Natural Feeling
3) Thin
4) Flexible
5) Crystal Clear
6) Light Weight
7) Natural looking
8) No lifting!

Myths about Gel Nails:
1) Myth: Gel nails are soooooo easy to do, they apply just like nail polish! Anyone can do them! (Then why isn't everybody already doing them?) The truth: "Gel nails are easy to learn, but hard to master".

2) Myth: Gel nails are "lumpy" because you can't file them or do finish work. The truth: Gel nails are non-porous and completely cured, there is no reason not to file them to perfection if needed!

Supplies:
Normal manicure table set-up (files, buffers, tips, forms, etc)
U-V Light(s):
Styles available
Bulb types
Gels: Many systems and types available
Primer/Bonder/Basecoat gels
Self –leveling gels, Non self-leveling gels
Thin, medium or thick viscosity, Builder Gels
Multi-purpose, One-component, Gloss coat/Sealers
White builder, White free-edge, Colored gels
Most non-soluble in acetone, some exceptions……
Gel Brushes
Gel Cleanser
Gel Wipes (lint free)

Nails Polish

Nail polish ,products ,polish ,opi nail polish ,toluene ,silver ,shipping ,shatter ,product ,opi nail lacquer ,nail polishes ,nail polish remover ,nail lacquer ,nail color ,nail care ,nail art ,ingredients ,gel nail ,zoya nail polish ,wholesale ,water-based ,solvent ,shipping deals ,shimmer ,shellac ,shades ,search ,reviews ,quantity ,professional nail ,polishes ,plasticizers ,picture ,natural nails ,manicure ,katy perry ,formaldehyde ,essie nail polish ,crackle ,coupons ,cosmetics ,colors ,china glaze nail polish ,china glaze ,brushes ,brands ,bottle ,base coat ,amazon . Who doesn't like to use nail polish these days? The problem lies with incorrect application! I've seen so many nails that are unevenly coated, cracked and chipped. We can easily prevent these things from happening if we all learn how to apply nail polish properly! Follow this quick guide when you are applying polish to your finger and toe nails next time and I'll guarantee you'll see an improvement to your nails! Before you start applying the polish to your nails, you'll need to select the right color. My first advice is to use a color that you actually like and not follow any rules of thumb regarding color choice. Having said that there are some guidelines to choosing the right colors that I typically do follow. The first is where are you heading to? What is the occasion? If it's for everyday coverage, neutral tones are good to go. These are perfect for work days and professional events. If it's a more relaxed and fun event, go for whatever you like. Matching with lip color and the colors you are planning to dress in is also a good idea. But again, the best is to trust your instincts and go with colors that you actually like. My personal favorite are chrome colors to give my nails that sexy shine. What you'll needNow that you've chosen your color, lets begin applying! You'll need your polish color, a top coat, base coat, cu-tips, cotton balls and polish remover.How to Apply Nail Polish Properly1. Remove any trace of old nail polish that you have. You can do this quickly with cotton balls and rubbing each nail thoroughly. By removing any old polish you have on you can ensure that you put on an even coating.2. With your hands steadily propped against a table to ensure you don't shake, start painting your nails with the base coat. Start by brushing down the middle of your nail and then the two sides. This will provide an even coating. It is a good idea to begin with your smallest fingers and toes and work your way to your big fingers and toes, which prevents you from leaning on any freshly painted nails. 3. Add the nail polish to your nails by following the same procedure you did for the base coat ( small nails first, brushing the middle of the nail followed by the sides).4. Wait for the polish to dry. This will depend on the nail polish itself. I like to give between 20-30 minutes from the last painted nail to ensure perfect dryness.5. Add the top coat by repeating the same procedure you did for painting the base coat and the nail polish. Top coats will add even more balance and shine to your nails. 6. Once the top coat is dry, clean up your nails with a cu-tip and nail polish remover. With the cu-tip, remove any flecks of polish you have on your skin and around your nails. Be careful and take your time with this.nail polish ,products ,polish ,opi nail polish ,toluene ,silver ,shipping ,shatter ,product ,opi nail lacquer ,nail polishes ,nail polish remover ,nail lacquer ,nail color , nail care ,nail art ,ingredients ,gel nail ,zoya nail polish ,wholesale ,water-based ,solvent ,shipping deals ,shimmer ,shellac ,shades ,search ,reviews ,quantity ,professional nail ,polishes ,plasticizers ,picture ,natural nails ,manicure ,katy perry ,formaldehyde ,essie nail polish ,crackle ,coupons ,cosmetics ,colors ,china glaze nail polish ,china glaze ,brushes ,brands ,bottle ,base coat ,amazon .

Nail Shellac

Shellac ,top coat ,polish ,nail polish ,manicure ,creative nail design ,uv lamp ,shellac base ,shipping ,professional nail ,products ,product ,pedicure ,natural nails ,nail salon ,youtube ,uv gel ,service ,revolutionary product ,reviews ,peeling nails ,natural nail ,nail treatments ,nail technician ,nail tech ,nail products ,nail color ,nail care ,mobile nail technician ,manicures and pedicures ,manicures ,hybrid ,how to ,hand and foot ,gelish ,gel nails ,gel nail ,french manicure ,foot beauty ,facebook ,dulling ,dry time ,day spa ,creative nail design, inc ,colour ,color coat ,beauty salon ,base coat ,appointment ,application ,acrylic nails. Last week I was pleased to receive the new CND nail lacquer treatment at the launch party Clarisonic Sonic Chatter blog. Slightly more than a week later, Tutti Frutti also send a new model as well.I must say, I've really put it through a ring manicure. With all the packing, moving and cleaning I'm doing lately after moving, I hope at least some use (and maybe a chip or two) on my nails but the lacquer is lifting the end of the bargain beautifully.At first glance, looks like a nail lacquers others but the key for this product is a UV lamp to cure the paint down between each coat color, base and top coat. After the timer had gone for the top coat of UV light after you've applied, you no longer have to be careful with your nails. You can dig through your bag or even a bag full of nails! Ok, maybe not literally a bag of nails but you get the idea, right? I'm really amazed that I just have my nails done and could find my car keys in my bag without a single stain or nic on the color of my nails. That alone makes me want to kneel at the altar and praise CND.CND Treatment Nail lacquersJuly 1 by Carla Filed Under:, Nail CND As I mentioned, last week I was pleased to receive the new CND nail lacquer treatment at the launch party Clarisonic Sonic Chatter blog. Slightly more than a week later, Tutti Frutti (the colors you see below) and I am still going strong.I must say, I've really put it through a ring manicure. With all the packing, moving and cleaning I'm doing lately after moving, I hope at least some use (and maybe a chip or two) on my nails but the lacquer is lifting the end of the bargain beautifully. At first glance, looks like a nail lacquers others but the key for this product is a UV lamp to cure the paint down between each coat color, base and top coat. After the timer had gone for the top coat of UV light after you've applied, you no longer have to be careful with your nails. You can dig through your bag or even a bag full of nails! Ok, maybe not literally a bag of nails but you get the idea, right? I'm really amazed that I just have my nails done and could find my car keys in my bag without a single stain or nic on the color of my nails. That alone makes me want to kneel at the altar and praise CND. During a week later and the color on the tips I was looking just as good and shiny as the day it is applied, this photo was taken here yesterday. Do not they look good? You know how sometimes you can almost "color" with your nails? I often do this because the work consists of lots and lots of paper handling, so inevitably the nails I tend to do a little coloring. With shellac, this is intentional coloring thing of the past, the color is not affected at all. This seems to be almost indestructible! The only thing that will keep me out of the shellac is the price. This is definitely the type of treatment, I will splurge on just for fun or before the holiday to ensure perfect nails, but my wallet can not handle it every 2 weeks. That's just me though ... My aunt on the other hand, loves the idea of ​​nail polish that lasts so much that he was on the verge of ordering his promise. For him, nail polish does not last more than a day on the nails so he does not mind the price. If the boat you are in or the price just does not matter, shellac is definitely the way to go and passed.Shellac ,top coat ,polish ,nail polish ,manicure ,creative nail design ,uv lamp ,shellac base ,shipping ,professional nail ,products ,product ,pedicure ,natural nails ,nail salon ,uv gel ,service ,revolutionary product ,reviews ,peeling nails ,natural nail ,nail treatments ,nail technician ,nail tech ,nail products ,nail color ,nail care ,mobile nail technician ,manicures and pedicures ,manicures ,hybrid ,how to ,hand and foot ,gelish ,gel nails ,gel nail ,french manicure ,foot beauty ,dulling ,dry time ,day spa ,creative nail design, inc ,colour ,color coat ,beauty salon ,base coat ,appointment ,application ,acrylic nails

XL C + ' A Lovely Purple and Pink Swirl '

Hey Ladies I hope you've all had a fantastic weekend!.Here's a quick post for me today.To show you , what I created this morning =).  For this Manicure I used:- Sinful Colors - Lets Talk.- Avon Mirror Shine - Polished Pink.- Image plate - XL C.I absolutely love Sinful Colors - Lets Talk. It is a stunning vibrant Purple with blue undertones! - the polish left me speechless - its a bold gorgeous colour.  I wish I had more Sinful colors  =(.Words cannot describe how gorgeous this looks on my nails...... But do you think it will photograph..Nope lol =-/. Therefore the picture below is to show you the manicure without flash.My nail on my thumb broke this morning hence my nails look odd =-/Here is the lovely XL C plate =) . I love all these designs!  Here's some information about the plates:-The plate measures approx 148 x 210 mm.- Each stamp measures a huge 10mm wide by 12mm long.- The plates can fit into folders designed to hold sizes A5 or A4.I brought my XL plate from here.Thanks for reading!/Hugs!xxx**Please note that I paid the invoiced amount in full for my plates. I do not endorse nor promote this website/etailer other than I am passing on the info of where I got them to those who may wish to know. I have no affiliation with any company and received no compensation for promotion of these products, nor am I promoting them...just letting fellow bloggers where they may be obtained should they be interested.

WHAT ARE GEL NAILS?

WHAT ARE GEL NAILS?
The short answer: GEL NAILS are an extremely natural-looking enhancement: thin, clear, flexible, non-yellowing, nonporous, resist lifting. Gel nails can be used for natural nail overlays (actually one of the most difficult techniques--but it looks the easiest), tip overlays, and sculpted onto forms for short extensions, and to help encapsulate a damaged free-edge as it grows out. (For definitions of unfamiliar terms, check the "Glossary of Nail Tech Terminology" page.) Silk or fiberglass can be added to gels when needed for repairs or extra strength (don't get ahead of me, I' ll cover when, why and how later in these pages :).

Taupe/pink Roses

This weekends look & for mondays floral challenge.I usually go for bright colors but this time i wanted to do something more subtle.Instead of doing them all floral i added some stripes & dots which on my left hand i forgot to do stripes! lol What i used :Love & Beauty "BubbleGum"Love & Beauty "Taupe"Nina Ultra Pro "Whipped Cream"Cosmetic Arts " Wild Child"=] 

HB42 + ' A walk in the Park '

Hey Ladies!I hope your all well =).The plate I used for this Manicure , I've wanted to use for ages - Because I love how cute it looks. Now you all know by now that I'm not a flower girl - however - this plate deserves some fuss and attention!.Here's what I came up with whilst using it =).For this Manicure I used:-  Beauty UK -  White Polish.-  Barry M Nail Paint - Spring Green.-  Rimmel London -Matte Finish.-  Konad Special White and Green Polish.-  Some Rhinestones.I really really like how this turned out =).I got a lot compliments for this manicure =)Here is the fantastic HB42 Plate. For the above manicure I used every single image on this plate =). As usual the HB plates did not let me done. Thanks for reading =)Have a fantastic weekend =)/Hugsxxx

Gel Nail Products - GELAC COMPATIBLE GEL CLEANSER WIPE OUT 8 OZ Reviews

Gel Nail Products - GELAC COMPATIBLE GEL CLEANSER WIPE OUT 8 OZ Reviews

WIPE OUT 8 OZ THE FINAL STEP TO CLEANSING ALL GEL SERVICES [WO08] $6.99Removes Tacky Gel Residue. Cleans Brushes, UV Bulbs and Lamp Reflectors. INSTRUCTIONS: Lightly saturate Nail Wipe with WIPE OUT and Gently wipe the top of the nail to remove the tacky residue. For best results use a fresh side of the nail wipe for each finger. PINEAPPLE SCENT Compatible with Gelac

Need the MSDS Sheet for this product? Please click this link. Adobe Reader required. Page will open in a new window.

Flammable Item

Weekly Blog Round-up 13!

Hey Ladies!Every week, a few of us, organised by Stacie, get together and  write a collective post on our favourite blog posts of the week. Here is week 13!A massive thank you to grace for doing this post =).Sharon had everything looking rosyDawn showed off her talent for water marblingTheresa shows us her Gelish Silver FadeGrace enjoyed some Strawberries & CreamClaire impressed us with her magnetic nail varnish Sarah has something fishy going on!Lady Luck is getting ready for summerTrisha is trend setting with ombre nailsHave fun reading =)/Hugsx

Gel Nail Products - gel nail design

Gel Nail Products - gel nail design

Within these pages you will find the kind of values that have made THE SUPPLY SOURCE the leader in the industry. We know what you want and what you need: quality products; service and selection; low prices! That is exactly what we provide our valued customers.

In 1980, before starting this adventure I was a full time nail technician. I was tired of paying over inflated prices for basic supplies. I knew what was needed was a supply source that could offer top quality products, great service and low prices. It was upon this basic idea that THE SUPPLY SOURCE was founded!
Well, many years have passed since 1980. Nail technicians from all over the globe have helped us become a success. By offering over 16,000 items and representing over 30 various product lines.
Millions of dollars in sales have forged successful partnerships with over 700,000 satisfied professionals. We have helped these nail technicians by increasing their profits, by saving them money, offering new products and techniques as soon as they become available, maintaining highly educated personnel in the industry whom may offer tech support & top notch chemists on staff for research and development.

THE SUPPLY SOURCE promises to offer the best selection, prices and service possible. You will find that we are carrying our largest selection of professional supplies ever. We are making it easier to do business with us by offering the most delivery and payment options too.
So... Compare our prices with any other supplier.

We guarantee "SUPPLY SOURCE will match any advertised price" offered by any competitor. Call us with your questions, comments and ideas.
We want your business to grow as much as ours and we will do what it takes to make you a satisfied customer.

Bright Mismatch Dots

I came up with this mix match polka dots in neon green, neon pink & Orange! Its really hard to tell the pink dots on the orange  but its more noticeable in person.

* Drum Roll * My Second Give Away - Winner is......

Hey LadiesI cant believe im at 866 followers ... Thank you so much for following me!  ...... After verifying all 366 contestants.... I am happy to announce a winner for my give-away!.....................................................The winner of my Second Give-Away is....Kayono from http://kayonolan.blogspot.com/Please remember to contact me within 48 hours of my email to you or another entrant will be awarded this give-away!Thanks all who entered =).I will be hosting another give-away to thank all my followers again , when and if ....I hit a 1000 followers =) - So stay tuned it will be big Give-away if I ever hit that number./Hugs!

Nail design with tape.

NailSide blogger has some awesome nail designs she does with thin stripes of tapes which she calls the laser mani's anyway i tried it out for the first time & it came out ok if my nails were longer it would of looked better. & i went for  some subtle nail polishes instead of vibrant. hopefully next time i get it right!http://nailside.blogspot.com/2011/05/comeback-of-laser-mani.html

Swatch Avon "Mystic/Mystique"



Awards

Hey LadiesIve recently been handed some awards .So i feel it is only right to Pass some more awards out =).Ekk...Where to Start =-/ lol.........................................................................................Thank you Laura from http://clothescosmeticsandchat.blogspot.com/For my Sunshine award =)The rules of this award are:*Thank the person who gave you this award*Write a post about it*Pass it on to 10 bloggers you think really deserve it and send them a message to let them knowI would Like to Pass this award to =)1) Ash - lily from http://ash-lillyslacquerlust.blogspot.com/2) Anne from http://bullesdoreesnailart.blogspot.com/3) Tammy from http://canadiannailfanatic.blogspot.com/4) Diane from http://dutch-diana.blogspot.com/5) http://danussasnails.blogspot.com/6)http://www.diavaslacquerbox.com/7) Emily from http://emilysnailfiles.blogspot.com/8) Stacie from http://kawaiinailart.blogspot.com/9) Marox79 and Marion from http://juntasperonorevueltas.blogspot.com/10 ) Thriszha from http://thriszha.blogspot.com/.............................................................................................Thank you juntasperonorevueltas For my * Sunshine Award*Here are my answers and the blogs i would like to pass this award onto =).1) Favourite colour -Green!2) Favourite Animal - Cats - especially my cat Sassy3) Favourite number - 14!..or 7 if i have to choose a number under 10.4) what perfume am i using right now - Intimately Beckham- yours.5) Something you always wear with you and identifies you...Hmm..work staff id lol?6) What's your passion? Drawing and painting =)7) Getting or giving presents? - Ugg i love both! ..Hm but i do like getting presents for people =)8) What was the last eyeshadow you used? - A Avon neutral colour from a set i got recently9) Favourite day of the week -  Friday!!!!10) Are your nails painted right now? ...Ofc..i feel naked when they are not painted...is that weird And i award :1) Sammy from http://nailasaurus.blogspot.com/2) Manicured Monkey3) Holiday from http://blackcoffee1437.blogspot.com/4) Rebecca from http://rebeccalikesnails.blogspot.com/5) Nicola - http://toptotoe28.blogspot.com/6) Jane from http://nailside.blogspot.com/7) http://nailsncupcakes.blogspot.com/8) Mae - http://artofnail.blogspot.com/9) http://andayn.blogspot.com/10) http://www.all-you-desire.com/...............................................................................................................Thank you MarShee for my awardTop 10 Award:
1. Thank the person who tagged you and link to their blog.
2. Put the Top 10 Award logo on your blog.
3. List your top 10 cosmetics.
4. Choose 10 bloggers to tag, link to their blogs, and let them know.Ahhh...lets start!1) Avon Cuticle Balm - I love it and wouldn't be without it2) Vaseline Lip Therapy3) Barry M Lip Gloss Wand -Toffee flavour - I got it as a freebie and love it!4) Oil of Olay - Beauty Fluid - ive used this since i was a little girl - it never lets me down 5) Max Factor - Fusion Mascara ...I need my length and full lashes!6) Rimmel - Liquid eye liner =)7) Rimmel - Double duty base coat ...Ive used it for 2 years and swear by it!8) Gosh Holograhic polish9) Rimmel Bronzer compact 10) Nivea hand cream And to chose 10 blogs1) Martje from http://girly-addictions.blogspot.com/2)  AmusedPolish3) Brooke from http://www.caracita.com/4) Charming Nails5) Enamel Girl6) Giuditta from http://giudittasnailsandbeauty.blogspot.com/7) Natalie from http://heartnat.blogspot.com/8) Konad addict9) Parokeets 10) Paint Lady Fingers