The Ultimate Guide to DIY Gel X-Nails
As someone who is always busy, finding the balance between work, school, and self-care can be a challenge. As much as I loved always getting my nails done at the salon, the reality of my busy schedule left me with little time to spare. This is when I started wearing KISS press-ons from Walgreens. They were my quick fix, my go-to solution to maintain polished nails without the fuss. But as much as I loved the convenience, the transient nature of press-ons left me longing for something more enduring.
Thus began my quest for the perfect at-home manicure solution. I tried acrylics and hard gel extensions, only to find them too complex and pricey for my constantly active lifestyle. Finally, I stumbled upon soft gel extensions, and it was a game-changer.
Soft gel extensions are durable and very affordable. Among the myriad options available, I found my holy grail: Gel X-nails by Beetles. Their Gel Nail Kit Easy Nail Extension Set revolutionized my at-home manicure routine.
The Beetles Gel Nail Kit: A Comprehensive Solution
The kit comes with basically everything you need from pre-shaped soft gel nail tips to a UV nail lamp, the Beetles kit provides a comprehensive solution for flawless extensions. The range of sizes and shapes catered to every nail bed, ensuring a perfect fit every time. Sure, there was a learning curve, but with a little practice, the application became easier.
The kit contains 240 extensions in 11 different sizes, meticulously categorized by numbers (0 to 10). This organization, akin to press-on nails, simplifies the selection process, ensuring a seamless application experience. However, individuals with wider nail beds may encounter challenges in finding extensions large enough to cover their thumbs fully.
With Gel X-nails, my manicures lasted for weeks and don’t budge with everyday tasks. The greatest advantage of DIY Gel X-nails is the freedom it affords. You no longer have to make salon appointments or have limited nail options. I can create any design I want on my nails.
Tips & Tricks
Of course, mastering the art of DIY Gel X-nails wasn’t without its challenges. Air pockets in the Extend Gel, juggling holding the faux nail on your natural nail while curing, and selecting the exact right size for each nail. However, with constant practice and the guidance of online tutorials, I gradually honed my skills.
One of the most challenging aspects of the application process was painting the Extend Gel onto the underside of each extension. The perfect balance of enough gel for adhesion without excess requires patience and practice. Additionally, holding down the gelled-up extension in the right position while curing under a lamp posed its own set of challenges. However, with time and experience, I developed techniques to overcome these obstacles.
Maintenance and Removal
As with any manicure, proper maintenance is key to extending its longevity. With Gel X extensions, ensuring a snug fit and thorough curing are crucial steps. Additionally, gentle handling and regular upkeep can prolong the lifespan of your manicure.
When it comes time for removal, the process is straightforward. Clip the extensions down, buff away the topcoat and nail polish, soak in acetone, and voilathe extensions slide off effortlessly. With light filing and buffing, your nails are ready for their next masterpiece.
