Gel Nails Design Ideas of 2024

Posted on Aug 21, 2023

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Gel nails have become a hit in recent years and will remain in fashion for a long time to come. Gel nail polishes combine the advantages of products and those of traditional nail polishes, which is why they have become so popular lately.

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What is a Gel Nails?

The gel nail polish design is similar to a classic manicure. It is hardened with a UV or LED light to help lock it in place and ensure long-lasting wear. Each layer of gel nail polish should harden between 30 and 60 seconds. And instead of waiting for the nails to dry, you can leave the nail salon after the last coat has dried.

Gel nail designs look just like regular nails. The added advantages are that they last longer, are super shiny, and give your nails a stronger look. Gel nail designs are ideal for both very short nails and very long nails.

Gel Nails Step By Step

You can do simple ideas of gel nail designs yourself at home. You will need to buy a gel nail kit, which includes a UV lamp, gel polish, top coat, and base coat. First do a traditional type of manicure, shape the nail plate, remove cuticles and mattify the nail plate with a buffing block.

Then apply the gel polish:

  • Degrease the nail plate with a cleanser.
  • Apply a thin layer of base gel polish to the nail plate and cover it with a gel lamp.
  • Apply the gel polish of your choice, usually two coats for best results. Cure each coat in a UV lamp.
  • Apply a thin layer of top coat over the colored polish to brighten the nail plate and protect it from damage and chipping.
  • Once the nail design is finished, rinse the nails again with a cleaner to remove the sticky film on the surface.

Can Gel Damage My Nails?

There has been a lot of research on skin and nail damage; traditional UV lamps used to cure these products have different bulbs than those in "tanning beds". Most nail salons are switching to LED lamps because they cure the nail gel polish in 30 seconds, versus the two to three minutes it takes for a UV lamp.

Gel does not damage the nails. What can damage nails is an improper removal process, such as peeling off a chipped nail. You can avoid this by properly (and patiently) removing the gel nail polish yourself at home or removing the gel at a nail salon.

Use ge polish depending on the condition of your nail plate. If your nails start to break and become brittle, abandon the gel nail design for a while and let your nails grow back. Daily use of cuticle oil is essential for nails to grow strong.

How to Remove Gel Nail Polish?

Do you know how to get gel nail polish off? You can take off gel nails remove at a nail salon or remove gel nails at home with acetone, gel nail polish remove aluminum foil, cotton, and a nail file.

If you want to save money and a visit to the nail salon, be careful not to damage the nail plate. We recommend that you safely remove gel nails polish at home:

  • Stock up on acetone (100%) and a glass container.
  • File off the top layer of gel with a file or file it off with a cutter.
  • Hold the cotton ball soaked in acetone over the nail plate for about three minutes.
  • Gently scrape off the nail gel polish with a wooden cuticle stick.
  • After removing the polish, gently buff the nails. Remember the importance of nail plate care. Use cuticle oil and hand and nail cream.

Acrylic vs Gel Nails. What Is The Difference?

Although gel and acrylic nail polish are two of the most popular nail salon services, there are key differences between them.

Application

Gel nail are applied with a brush to the natural nail, acrylic, or gel nail extensions and hardened with UV light. The process is much faster than acrylic extension, as the nail is not shaped and the drying time is one minute or less.

Removal

Typically, acrylic nails are removed by a nail technician in a nail salon, while gel nails can be easily removed at home.

Durability

Gel nail polish usually lasts about two weeks without chipping. It is stronger than regular polish, but not as strong as acrylic nails because it is applied directly to the nail plate. Acrylic nails can last up to three weeks and can be refilled several times before needing a completely new manicure.

Cost

Gel nails cost between $70 and $150, depending on where you live and the nail salon. Acrylic nail extensions can cost from $150, depending on the nail salon, city, length, and other services such as nail art.

Although acrylic nails extensions can be more expensive on the initial visit, they can be refilled (cost on average between $90 and $130), while gel nails do not.

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Gel Nail Designs Ideas

Ombre Gel Nails

Ombre gel nails are a subtle combination of two harmonious colours, creating a striking gradient on the nails. The delicate transitions and smooth combinations will add elegance and grace to your manicure, making your hands look beautiful.

Gel nails
Ombre Gel Nails

Gel Nail Designs

Gel nails enriched with intricately crafted nails designs are a true work of art on the hands. Their delicate embellishments and precise lines create a harmonious composition, adding an extraordinary charm and unique character to the nails.

Gel nail design
Gel Nail Designs

Long Gel Nail Extension

Long gel nails are a true masterpiece of elegance. Their slender form and smooth surface emphasise the natural beauty of every woman.

Long gel nail extension
Long Gel Nail Extension

Do not miss our post on Beautiful Wedding Nails Ideas For Your Inspirations.

Bright Gel Nails

Bright gel nails exude subtle charm and natural beauty. Their soft shades and smooth surface create a harmonious whole, adding lightness and elegance to the hands.

Gel nail idea
Bright Gel Nails

Short Gel Nails

Short gel nails exude subtle charm and delicacy. Their lightweight form blends perfectly with any style.

Short gel nails
Short Gel Nails

Christmas Gel Nails

Christmas gel nails are the perfect way to emphasise the magical atmosphere of this special time. Their colourful embellishments in the form of stars, snowflakes or reindeer add a unique charm to the hands, enriching every style with a touch of joy and Christmas magic.

Christmas gel nails
Christmas Gel Nails

Delicate Gel Nails

Delicate gel nails add subtlety and elegance to your hands. The beautiful pastel shades and subtle embellishments are great for enhancing the natural look of your nails.

Short gel nail design
Delicate Gel Nails

Gel Nails Neons

Gel nails in neon colours are a bold choice that adds energy and freshness to the hands. Their intense colours are great for accentuating a crazier style.

Summer gel nails
Gel Nails Neons

Natural Gel Nails

The delicate colours and natural form of natural gel nails give the hands a unique charm and sophisticated class.

Natural gel nails
Natural Gel Nails

Gel Nail Stickers

Gel nail stickers are a unique way to add extraordinary shine and definition to your hands. Precise designs and a wealth of detailing create unique compositions that make your nail design unmistakable.

Red Gel Nails

Red gel nails are the quintessence of feminine elegance. The intense colour and smooth surface perfectly emphasise self-confidence adding a unique character and chic to the hands.

Black Gel Nails

Black gel nails exude mystery and elegance. The deep and strong colour and the shiny surface add an extraordinary touch of distinction and character to the hands.

Gel French Nails

French style nails are a classic and elegant choice that adds a chic and subtle touch to your hands. Delicate white tips on a neutral background make your nails look natural and well-groomed, perfect for any occasion or style.

Pink Gel Nails

Gel nails in shades of pink are an expression of delicacy and feminine charm. They add subtlety and charm to the hands.

Citations

Nail anatomy
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/

Finger nail plate shape and size for personal identification – a possible low technology method for the developing world - Preliminary report
https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ajhs/article/view/30795

Physics of nail conditions: why do ingrown nails always happen in the big toes?
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/

FAQs about gel nails

How long do gel nails last?

The biggest advantage of gel nail models is their durability. A gel nail can last up to two weeks with proper nail preparation and home care such as cuticle oil and hand lotion. And if you are careful, it can last up to four weeks.

How much do gel nails cost?

The price of gel nails varies greatly depending on the city and the nail salon. In big cities like Los Angeles and New York, gel nails can cost from $70 to $15. Note that you will also have to pay for the removal of gel nails (between $30 and $50, depending on your location) if you don't want to remove them at home.

What does the longevity of gel nails depend on?

The durability of gel nails depends on many factors. Good quality products are important, but also the technique and skill of the person doing the gel nails.