How to Apply Nail Foils on Gel Nails in 5 Steps
How to Use Nail Foil With Gel
Flowers, hearts, swirls and abstract designs... nail art is always a client fave.Nail foils are a great way to create nail art on gel nails without having to draw intricate designs! Whether you’re a beginner to the nail art scene or want to speed up appointments, nail foils are an easy way to inject colour and pattern. But how do you use nail foils? We’ve got 5 simple steps so you can apply our foilX nail art foil range like a pro.
What you’ll need to apply foils to gel nails
Applying nail foils is a straightforward process, but getting a flawless finish requires a few careful steps.
Here is a list of everything you need:
- ProPrep (cuticle pusher)
- ProNip (cuticle nipper)
- Gel Colour of your choosing
- IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol)
How to Apply Foil on Gel Nails in 5 Steps
To achieve the perfect foil nail art, preparation is key. The GelBottle Inc’s FoilX range is perfect for creating a unique variety of nail foil manicures.
Step 1: Prep Your Nail
- Using a cuticle pusher — like ProPrep from our TGB Tools Range — push back the cuticles and trim away the excess using cuticle nippers like ProNip.
- File nails into the desired shape using a TGB 220/240 Nail File.
- Gently buff nails using a TGB 100/180 Nail Buffer to remove any shine.
- Dehydrate and cleanse the nail plate using 100% pure acetone.
Tip: Taking time to prep the nail properly ensures a smooth gel nail polish application and helps your foils adhere better.
Step 2: Apply Base Coat and Gel Polish to Your Nail
- Next, apply your 2-in-1 Base Coat base coat and cure it under the TGB Light The Way Nail Lamp for the recommended time.
- Now apply two coats of your chosen gel polish. Cure each layer under the TGB Light The Way Nail Lamp for 60 seconds. Make sure the gel polish is smooth, as the foils will highlight any imperfections.
Step 3: Apply a Thin Layer of FoilX to Your Nail
- After curing your colour, apply a thin layer of FoilX Foil Gel to the areas of the nail where you want the foil to stick.
- For intricate designs, wipe the nail with IPA and use a Detail 01 Brush to precisely apply the foil gel.
- Cure the FoilX Foil Gel under the TGB Light The Way Nail Lamp for 60 seconds. The tacky finish left behind is perfect for foil transfer.
Step 4: Apply the Foil Transfer onto the Nails
- Cut your desired piece of FoilX and press it onto the tacky FoilX Foil Gel, with the design facing upwards.
- Gently rub the FoilX onto the nail to ensure even transfer, and carefully lift the foil away to reveal the design.
- Repeat this process on each nail as necessary.
Step 5: Apply a Top Coat to Your Nail
To seal the design, apply a generous layer of Extreme Shine Top Coat. Cure under the TGB Light The Way Nail Lamp for 60 seconds to lock in the foil design and add long-lasting shine.
Expert Tips for Flawless Foil Nail Art
Here are a few expert tips to help you master foil nail art:
Choose the Right Foil Gel
Using a dedicated foil gel like The GelBottle Inc’s FoilX Foil Gel is key to achieving a perfect transfer. It leaves a tacky layer that ensures the foil sticks smoothly and lasts longer.
Use Minis for Mobile Nail Techs
If you're on the go, products like The GelBottle Inc’s FoilX Foil Gel Mini and Extreme Shine Top Coat Mini are fantastic for mobile nail techs who want to save space in their kits without compromising on quality.
FAQs: Nail Foil Application
Why is my nail transfer foil not sticking?
This is usually down to improper curing or applying too much foil gel. Make sure to cure the FoilX Foil Gel under the TGB Light The Way Nail Lamp for the full 60 seconds and apply a thin, even layer.
Do you need a UV lamp for nail foils?
Yes! You’ll need to cure the FoilX Foil Gel with a TGB Light The Way Nail Lamp to create the perfect tacky base for the foil to adhere.
How do you make foil nails last longer?
The secret to long-lasting foils is sealing the design with a top coat, like our Extreme Shine Top Coat, and curing it properly. Also, avoid direct contact with oils and acetone-based products, as these can lift the foil.
Can you use nail foils on natural nails?
Yes, you can! Just apply a regular base coat like our Rubber Base, and follow the same steps as you would for gel nails. The results will be just as stunning.
Achieve Perfect Nail Art with The GelBottle
At TGB, we’re all about providing you with everything you need to create stunning nail art. Whether you’re looking to elevate your nail game with our FoilX Foil Collection, need extra shine from our Extreme Shine Top Coat, or want to attend nail art workshops at TGB Academy, we’ve got you covered.
Head over to our Instagram and TikTok for more nail art inspiration and tutorials. Or, if you’re looking to learn from the best, sign up for a course at TGB Academy and start mastering your craft.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be able to create flawless foil nail art every time. Now it’s time to get creative!