How to Apply Polygel Nails

Polygel nails are highly desired due to their strength (better than gel nails) and flexibility (better than acrylic nails), whether you opt for short nails or longer nails.

But paying nail salon prices - especially in this economic climate - isn’t exactly what you’d call “ideal.”

If you’re looking to get stunning polygel nails, you can always create them yourself.

Doing polygel nails at home is easier than you think. Plus, there are multiple polygel kits on the market, so you have options to suit your preferences.

Even beginners can create their polygel nails - no nail technician necessary.

Keep reading to create the polygel manicure of your dreams.

How to Apply Polygel Nails: Two Ways

Polygel nails are surprisingly easy to do yourself, regardless of skill level.

Of course, some applications are simpler than others, so it’s essential to know the different ways to apply them.

1. Dual Form

The preferred way to apply polygel nails on natural nails is with polygel dual forms.

Dual forms are effortless and perfect for beginners as they require zero sculpting.

Prep Your Natural Nails

Prepping is always the first step to any application, whether you’re settling for gel polish or creating Instagram-worthy polygels.

To prep, simply push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher and use a nail file to achieve your ideal shape and remove shininess.

Give them a wipe with a bit of rubbing alcohol, acetone nail polish remover, or another nail surface cleaner to remove dust, excess oil, dirt, and grime.

Apply Primer and a Base

Follow up with a bit of primer/nail dehydrator and a base coat to help the dual forms stick more readily.

Find the Right Size Polygel Nail Dual Forms

The best polygel nail kits will come in different sizes. Find the dimensions that fit your nail bed. It’s okay if they are slightly wider.

Add the Polygel to the Nail Forms

Start by adding a dot of polygel to the dual form.

Dip your polygel brush in a slip solution, then spread the polygel across the nails.

Apply Dual Forms to the Natural Nail

Once prepped, apply the dual forms to your natural nails. Push on them gently to ensure they fully adhere to the nails.

Place your fingernails under a UV lamp for 60 seconds.

Remove Dual Forms, File, and Shape

After curing, remove fingernails from under the lamp and remove the nail form.

Viola! Gorgeous nails with little to no work on your behalf.

All that is left is for you to use your nail file to shape the edges to your liking.

Apply a Gel Polish Top Coat

Finish off with gel polish. Remember to cure the whole nail under your UV lamp for 60 seconds to make sure it becomes a hard gel ready to be used.

2. Freehand

Applying freehand polygel nails on top of your natural nail requires a bit more skill and practice, but the results are incredible.

Prep and Prime

Much like polygel application method number one, you will need to start by prepping and priming your nails.

Push back your cuticles and use a nail file to reach your desired shape and length. Then, swipe some nail cleaner over them, such as rubbing alcohol.

Apply your primer and a base coat to the entire nail, then cure for 60 seconds.

Apply the Polygel to the Nail

When applying polygel freehand, it’s essential to have a two-sided metal tool with a spatula and brush on the other.

Get a pea-sized amount of light pink polygel on the spatula side and drop it onto your nail. Then, dip the brush in a slip solution and create the polygel nail.

Since the polygel has a putty-like consistency, you can shape your polygel manicures however you’d like - including an ultra-long, sculpted extension.

You may need to dip the brush in more slip solution while sculpting.

Cure and Shape Nails

Once you’re satisfied with the appearance of your nail tips, cure your fingernails underneath the UV light for 60 seconds.

Use a regular nail file to eliminate any unwanted rough or uneven areas on the nail plate.

Finish with a Gel Top Coat and Cure

The final step in your gel manicure is to apply gel nail polish to the top of your nail tips. You can decide on matte or glossy finishes.

Apply the preferred top coat and cure under the LED light for 60 seconds (although 120 seconds is ideal).

Apply Lotion or Oil (optional)

Any manicure will be somewhat rough on the nails, whether you’re getting acrylic nails using acrylic liquid and acrylic powder or gelish polygel manicure.

That said, it’s recommended to apply lotion or oil. Give extra attention to the cuticle, the thin layer of skin bordering the edge of your nails.

FAQs

How do you apply Polygel without UV light?

You can’t. Nail experts agree that a UV or LED light is essential for curing gel nails.

Some people may say that you can cure them with other methods, such as leaving them in the sunlight or using an ice bath.

These are not proven methods, and I would not suggest them. I do not see the polygel results coming out very well.

Why does my Polygel pop off?

If you aren’t ready to remove polygel you just designed but are struggling with polygel popping off; it’s likely an issue with the slip solution.

Do not use too much of this solution when applying your polygel, regardless of the polygel brand.

Also, make sure you’re prepping your nails properly and leaving your nails underneath the light for the recommended amount of time.

Do you put a base coat under Polygel?

A gel base coat is essential for long-lasting and durable polygel nails.

While this might make it more challenging to remove polygel nails when you’re ready, you will enjoy the added longevity while enjoying your manicure.