The Most Frequently Asked Gel Nail Questions (2025 Edition) - How to Apply Gel Nail Polish at Home: Your Complete Guide to Salon-Worthy Results

Gel nail polish has revolutionized at-home manicures, offering chip-resistant, glossy nails that last up to three weeks. But achieving salon-quality results requires the right tools, techniques, and a little know-how. In this guide, we’ll answer the most common questions about gel polish application, lamps, and longevity—and show you how Ambedo Beauty’s 12-Free Solid Gels make the process safer, easier, and more eco-friendly.  

How to Apply Gel Nail Polish at Home

Applying gel polish at home is simpler than you might think, but preparation is key. Start by trimming and shaping your nails, then gently buff the surface to remove shine. Push back your cuticles and cleanse nails with rubbing alcohol to eliminate oils or residue.  

Next, apply a thin layer of Ambedo Beauty’s Vitamin-E Base Coat, which protects your nails and ensures better adhesion. Cure it under a UV or LED lamp according to the recommended time (usually 30–60 seconds for LED).  

For the colour layer, use two thin coats of gel polish. Thick layers can lead to uneven curing or wrinkling, so patience is crucial. Cure each coat thoroughly—60 seconds under an LED lamp or 120 seconds under UV. Finish with the Fibreglass-Infused Top Coat, cure again, then wipe away any sticky residue with alcohol. Finally, massage cuticle oil into your nails and skin to keep them hydrated and healthy.  

Pro Tip: Avoid getting polish on your skin, as this can cause lifting. Use a small brush dipped in acetone to clean up edges.  

UV vs LED Lamps: Which Is Better?

Understanding the difference between UV and LED lamps is essential for perfect curing. UV lamps emit a broad spectrum of ultraviolet light (340–380nm) and have been the traditional choice for gel nails. However, they take longer to cure each layer—typically 90–120 seconds.  

LED lamps, on the other hand, use targeted wavelengths (365–405nm) to cure gel polish faster and more efficiently. Most modern gels, like Ambedo Beauty’s Solid Gels, harden in just 30–60 seconds under LED light. LED lamps are also more energy-efficient and emit less heat, making them a safer, more convenient option for home use.  

 How Long Does Gel Polish Take to Cure?

 
Curing times depend on your lamp type and the gel polish formula. LED lamps typically cure each layer in 30–60 seconds, while UV lamps require 90–120 seconds. Always follow the instructions provided with your gel polish—under-curing can lead to peeling and poor longevity, while over-curing may make removal difficult.  

Can You Do Gel Nails Without a UV/LED Lamp?

Gel polish requires UV or LED light to harden properly. While some brands offer “gel-like” polishes that air-dry, these lack the durability and chip resistance of true gels. For long-lasting results, invest in a high quality gel product like Ambedo Beauty Solid Gels.

How Many Coats of Gel Polish Should You Apply?

Less is more when it comes to gel polish. Start with one thin layer of base coat, followed by two to three thin layers of colour. Thick coats take longer to cure and increase the risk of wrinkling or uneven texture. Finish with a single layer of top coat to seal in the colour and add shine.  

Choosing the Best Base Coat for Gel Nails

A good base coat is the foundation of a long-lasting manicure. Look for formulas that strengthen nails and prevent staining. Ambedo Beauty’s 12-Free Vitamin-E Base Coat is free from harsh chemicals like HEMA and formaldehyde, offering strong adhesion without compromising nail health.  

Can You Mix Regular Polish with a Gel Top Coat?

Yes! If you want to experiment with regular nail polish colours, apply your chosen shade and let it dry completely. Then, seal it with a gel top coat and cure under your lamp. While this hybrid method won’t last as long as a full gel manicure, it can extend the wear of regular polish to 7–10 days. We recommend sealing off your regular nail polish with Ambedo's Fibreglass-Infused Top Coat!

How to Make Gel Nails Last Longer

To maximize the lifespan of your gel manicure:  
- Prep thoroughly: Clean nails with alcohol to remove oils.  
- Cap the edges: Swipe polish over the free edge of your nail to prevent tip chipping.  
- Avoid water exposure: Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning.  
- Moisturize daily: Hydrated cuticles reduce the risk of lifting.  

FAQ: Gel Nail Application Myths Debunked

Q: Can UV lamps cure LED gel polishes? 
A: Yes, but they’ll take longer. Stick to the recommended lamp type for best results.  

Q: Why does my gel polish peel off after a week?
A: Peeling is often caused by improper prep (e.g., skipping the base coat) or oil residue on the nails. getting gel into the gap between your nails and skin/cuticles will also cause lifting and peeling.

Q: Are gel nails safe for natural nails?  
A: Absolutely—when removed properly. Never peel gel off; always soak with acetone-free remover. Otherwise you can use a Peel-Off Base Coat, so that you can actually peel off your gels without risk of damage.

Elevate Your At-Home Manicures with Ambedo Beauty

Mastering gel nails at home is all about technique, quality products, and a little practice. With Ambedo Beauty’s 12-Free Solid Gels, you’ll achieve salon-worthy results without compromising safety or sustainability. Ready to transform your nail routine?  

👉 Explore our collection at Ambedo Beauty today!

Sources:  
American Academy of Dermatology: Nail Care Tips  
Journal of Cosmetic Science: UV/LED Curing Safety