Nail Prep for at Home Extensions

Having your nails done is a popular treatment, I doubt that'll ever change. But for those of us who would rather buy what's needed and do a DIY version, this is the guide to prep your nails.

Why am I writing this for you?

I became a qualified nail tech in April 2017. I don't do paid work, but I do still enjoy doing my own nails, and extensions are something I've gotten back into.

This nail prep is perfect for gel polish application, and acrylic, gel, or acry-gel (polygel) extensions.

What you will need:

• 240 grit nail file
• Buffing block
• Cuticle pusher
• Cuticle remover/Cuticle nippers
• Gel prep and wipe or antiseptic spray
• Lint-free wipes
• Dehydrator*
• Primer*

*Dehydrator and Primer are only required for the extensions. This isn't necessary for gel polish.

A 240 grit file is important. The higher the grit, the softer the file. A 240 is perfect for the natural nail. A 180 grit or lower (180/150/100/80) is for artificial nails only. Please, do not use these on your natural nail.

I use cuticle nippers because I was trained and know what I'm doing. I'd stick to using a cuticle remover and the cuticle pusher unless you are certain you're fine with using a nipper.

The nail prep:

This is the order of how I personally prep my nails, you can swap the filing and cuticle prep around, but it is best to keep everything else in order.

Step One

Starting with the cuticles, use the cuticle tool to remove all of the cuticles.

You can use a cuticle remover to help, or if you know how to use a cuticle nipper, use that to remove the remaining cuticle.

Step Two

Once the cuticle is fully removed, wipe away any residue or remaining cuticle.

Taking your 240 grit file, file your nails into your desired shape.

If you're applying a form of extension, you can file your nail into shape for the product to go on as an overlay, or you can shorten the nail to prepare for a tip or form.

Step Three

Gently buff your nails, removing any surface shine.

This is where I go back in with my cuticle tool, ensuring no cuticle remains.

Step Four

Taking the Gel Prep and Wipe, or an antiseptic spray (I have a nail and file spray) wipe your nails clean from any dust.

If you're applying gel polish, your nail prep is complete! If not...

Step Five

Take the dehydrator and apply it of your nails on that hand (I prefer one hand at a time).

Step Six

If you're using tips or forms, apply it to your finger or thumb.

Apply the primer to the nail just before you begin the application. Unlike the dehydrator, a primer (acid or acid-free) has to be applied before the application begins, so don't forget to apply it to each nail before you apply the product!

This is how I ensure my nails are perfectly prepped for products. When I'm wearing either the gel polish or extension, after a week or so, when the nail has grown some more, I like to take my cuticle pusher and push back the cuticles. It gives a cleaner look and simply maintains my cuticles.

When doing nail prep on myself, I like to take a bit longer to focus on making sure as much of the cuticle is removed. If any of it remains, it increases the chance of the product lifting from the nail bed. And nobody wants that.

All products required can easily be found online. eBay and Amazon are great sites to look at for these.