At RARJSM, we believe beautiful gel nails start with the right technique. Even the best gel polish can look streaky, uneven, or lift early if it isn’t applied correctly.
This step-by-step guide explains how to apply gel polish correctly, especially for beginners, so you can achieve smooth, even gel nails with rich color and long-lasting wear.
Whether you’re doing your own nails at home or refining your professional skills, these steps will help you get the most out of your gel polish.
Why Proper Gel Polish Application Matters
When gel polish is applied correctly:
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Color looks smoother and more even
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Pigment appears richer and more vibrant
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Gel cures properly and lasts longer
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Peeling, shrinking, and wrinkling are minimized
With the right prep and technique, salon-quality results are totally achievable.
Step 1: Nail Prep for Gel Polish (The Foundation of Long-Lasting Nails)
Great gel nails always start with proper nail prep. Skipping this step is one of the most common reasons gel polish doesn’t apply or last well.
Before applying gel color, make sure to:
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Clean and sanitize the nails
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Gently buff the nail surface to remove shine
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Remove dust and oils completely
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Apply a thin layer of base coat and cure fully
A smooth, clean base allows gel polish to glide on evenly and adhere better.
At RARJSM, we recommend using a high-adhesion base gel to create a strong foundation. A properly applied base coat helps prevent lifting and allows color to apply more evenly.
Step 2: Apply Gel Polish in Thin, Even Layers
One of the biggest gel application mistakes is applying the polish too thickly.
At RARJSM, we always recommend thin, controlled layers — this allows the pigment to self-level beautifully and cure evenly.
Thin layers:
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Cure more evenly under the lamp
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Reduce streaks and patchiness
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Prevent shrinking and wrinkling
For best results, apply 2–3 thin coats instead of one thick layer, especially with highly pigmented gel colors.
Step 3: How to Apply Gel Polish from the Center
For a smooth, professional finish, begin applying gel polish from the center of the nail.
RARJSM gel colors are formulated to glide smoothly, making controlled brush placement especially important for an even finish.
Recommended technique:
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Place the brush slightly away from the cuticle
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Gently push the color toward the cuticle without touching the skin
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Pull the brush straight down to the free edge
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Fill in the left and right sides
Avoid brushing back and forth too many times, as this can disturb the pigment and create streaks.
Step 4: Keep Gel Polish Away from the Cuticles
Applying gel polish too close to the cuticle can cause flooding, lifting, and early peeling.
RARJSM gel formulas are highly pigmented, so a small amount goes a long way.
Leave a small gap between the gel polish and the cuticle to:
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Prevent product from touching the skin
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Improve adhesion and durability
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Create a cleaner, more professional look
This small detail makes a big difference in the final result.
Step 5: Cure Gel Polish Properly Under LED/UV Lamp
Every layer of gel polish must be cured properly before applying the next.
For best results with RARJSM gel polish:
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Cure after each thin layer
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Use a quality LED/UV lamp
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Follow the recommended curing time
Proper curing ensures the gel fully hardens, locking in color and shine. (Recommended: use a quality LED/UV lamp)
Common Gel Polish Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
❌ Applying thick layers ❌ Over-brushing the same area ❌ Touching the cuticles or skin ❌ Skipping curing between layers
✅ Thin, even coats ✅ Controlled brush strokes ✅ Clean edges around the cuticle ✅ Full curing after every layer
RARJSM Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish
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Dark shades look best with extra-thin layers
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Light colors may need 2–3 coats for full coverage
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Wipe excess gel off the brush before applying
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Before curing, tilt the nail slightly to check for streaks or uneven areas
Frequently Asked Questions About Gel Polish Application
How many layers of gel polish should I apply?
Most gel polishes look best with 2–3 thin layers. Thin coats cure more evenly and help prevent streaks, wrinkling, and shrinking.
Why does my gel polish look streaky?
Streaky gel polish is usually caused by applying layers that are too thick, over-brushing the same area, or improper curing between layers.
How do I prevent gel polish from lifting?
Proper nail prep, thin application, keeping gel away from the cuticles, and full curing after each layer all help prevent lifting.
Can beginners apply gel polish at home?
Yes. With the right products and step-by-step technique, beginners can achieve smooth, salon-quality gel nails at home.
Final Thoughts
Perfect gel nails aren’t about rushing — they’re about technique and the right products. By following this step-by-step guide on how to apply gel polish correctly, you can achieve smooth, even, long-lasting results.
With proper prep, thin layers, careful brush control, and full curing, RARJSM gel polish delivers salon-quality gel nails you can trust.
✨ Explore RARJSM gel products and start creating flawless gel nails with confidence.
