How to do a French Manicure with Gel

How to Do a French Gel Manicure in 5 Simple Steps

The French manicure is a timeless and elegant choice, ideal for any occasion. With its classic pink base and crisp white tips, this manicure exudes sophistication and simplicity. Follow these easy steps to create a flawless French gel manicure using our fave TGB formulas.

What is a French Manicure?

A French manicure is a nail design that combines a natural, nude or pale pink base with clean, white tips. When created with gel polish, it provides a durable, glossy finish that lasts longer than regular polish. You can achieve this iconic look using our  Gel Colours, BIAB ™ and Studio Gel™.

Popular French Manicure Ideas:

• Classic White Tips: The traditional French look with a soft pink base and bright white tips. Our favourite BIAB™ shades for French Manicure bases are Dolly BIAB™, 19 BIAB™, Teddy BIAB™ and Bunny 
• BIAB™. We love Silk or Marshmallow for a gel colour base. Finish with Daisy Studio Gel™ for a clean, white tip.

• Coloured French Manicure: Add a pop of colour to the classic Frenchie with any shade that fits your desired aesthetic, we love Riviera for a bolder look or Pastel V101 for a soft finish.

• French Ombré: A seamless gradient from the natural nail colour into a soft pink or white, creating a subtle yet stunning effect.

Tools You’ll Need for the Perfect French Gel Manicure

To achieve a salon-quality French gel manicure, you'll need the following tools:

• Gel Polish: Essential for achieving a long-lasting, glossy finish.

• BIAB™: Provides a strong base and perfect for building up the natural nail shape.

• Liner 01 Brush: This 10mm brush gives you controlled application for crisp smile lines and flawless French Tips.

• Studio Gel™: Ideal for precise application and perfect for creating the French tip.

• ProPrep: Helps to push back cuticles for a clean manicure.

• ProNip: For trimming excess cuticle skin.

How to Do a French Manicure with Gel Polish

Follow these simple steps to achieve a perfect French gel manicure:

1. Prep the Nail

Start by prepping the nails to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish. Use the 220/240 File to shape the nails, followed by ProNip to trim excess cuticle skin and ProPrep to push back the cuticles. Buff the nail plate with the 100/180 buffer and then cleanse the nails with Lint Free Wipes to remove any oils and debris.

2. Apply a Base Coat

Apply a thin layer of  Rubber Base as a base coat to help adhere product to the nail and prevent staining of the natural nail. Cure under TGB’s Light The Way Nail Lamp for the recommended time. This step ensures a solid foundation for your French gel manicure.

3. Apply the Pink Base

Apply a thin layer of Silk or Marshmallow. Ensure even coverage and cure under your lamp. This base provides the classic French look and enhances the natural appearance of your nails.

4. Create the White Tips

For the iconic white tips, use  Daisy Studio Gel™. Using Liner 01 Brush, carefully paint the white tip along the free edge of the nail. Aim for a clean, crisp line. Cure under the lamp after application. If necessary, apply a second coat for a more opaque finish.

5. Seal with Top Coat

Finish your French gel manicure by applying a layer of Extreme Shine Top Coat. This will seal your design and provide a glossy, long-lasting shine. Cure under the UV/LED lamp and wipe off the tacky residue with Lint Free Wipes. Swipe Cuticle Essence across the cuticles and gently rub in for a perfect finish.

French Manicure in Four Ways

French manicures are endlessly adaptable. Explore our guide withsome top tips on how to achieve four different types of French manis, to inspire you to experiment with your nail art.

1.The Soft French Tip

For a more understated take, try the Soft French Tip.

TOP TIP: Grab your Liner 02 Brush and Daisy Studio Gel™. Begin drawing your French tip, ensuring you don’t take the brush too far down the sides. Create a subtle, even curve for a delicate smile line.

2. The Deep French Tip

For a bold statement, opt for the Deep French Tip.

TOP TIP: Extend the curve further down the sides of the nail bed. Make sure the smile line is evenly arched and reaches closer to the centre of the nail for a more defined and elongated appearance.

3. Chevron French Tip

If your client wants something different, the Chevron French Tipadds an edgy twist.

TOP TIP: Use your brush to form two sharp angled lines that meet in the middle, creating a chevron effect. This style is perfect for those looking to stand out!

4. Y2K French Tip

Y2K aesthetics are making a comeback this year, and the Y2K French Tipis a nostalgic nod to the early 2000s.

TOP TIP: Take your smile line much further down the nail bed to capture the iconic look of that era. The result is a playful and bold French tip that’s sure to turn heads.

To see these styles come to life, check out this tutorial by TGB Brand Ambassador @by_hannahtaylor on Instagram

Whether you’re going for classic elegance or a trendy twist, The GelBottle Inc has all the products you need to achieve stunning results.

Get the Perfect French Manicure with The GelBottle

Achieving a stunning French gel manicure is easy with TGB. From our versatile BIAB™ to our high-quality Studio Gel™ we provide everything you need for a flawless finish. For more nail inspiration and professional tips, explore the rest of our blog, follow us on Instagram, or explore our TikTok for the latest trends.

Ready to master the art of the French gel manicure? Dive into TGB Academy for comprehensive training and enhance your skills with our expert-led accredited courses from just £199.