Apply a thin application over the entire nail, and then cure each one under an LED or UV light to dry it. Cure your base coat for at least 30 seconds to a minute before proceeding to ensure that it has properly dried.

Shake your polish vigorously before using it to ensure the solution is thoroughly blended. Then begin with your color. One of the things we found most important was not to rush the preparation phase. Make sure your nails are filed, smooth, buffed and totally clean. A strong foundation is essential for obtaining the best results. Paint - Sweep on your favourite nail polish and let dry (fully dry, not just touch dry so approx. 30 mins).The polish (we opted for Scarlet Red) was on the thin side, which made application really easy. There’s no chance of clotting here. READ NEXT: The best face mask to try The best gel nail kits to buy in 2023 1. Semilac Starter Set Love Me: Best gel nail kit for customisability Yes, the upfront cost of a kit is in most cases more than a single gel treatment in a salon. However, by investing in a kit you’ll save yourself a fortune in the long run. If you look at it as an investment, you’ll actually find it’s pretty cheap. What do gel nail kits contain?

We also appreciate that Manucure doesn’t over-promise. It says the gels last for up to ten days, and that seems like a respectable goal for a brand that is so hard-working in terms of its sustainability commitment. The lamp is one of the sturdier options out there, and the glossy and smart design feels expensive – it’s a cut above the insubstantial lamps included with some other kits. It’s also larger than many others as you can easily get your hand inside. It’s really simple to use even if you aren’t really familiar with LED lamps. Lastly, it’s crucial that you “cap” the free end of the nail with the colour and the top coat. This is super simple: just run the brush over the nail edge. If you don’t do this, you can expect early chipping.

What if you could turn any nail polish into a gel?

Key specs – Colours included: 2; Lamp strength: 18W; Contains removal equipment? Yes; Quantity of polish per pot: 15ml