Gel tips, or gel nail tips, as they are sometimes called, are translucent plastic nail plates that cover your natural nail, and extend the length of it. It can be worn naturally, alone, or serve as the perfect nail plate on which to perform your manicure. Nail tips with gel are easy to use, and come in a variety of sizes. They are also easily removable with a simple soak-off, and come in a range of shapes and styles. Just like gel manis, gel nail tips require curing for perfect adhesion.

It’s not so much a case of better, than serving different needs. Acrylic nails, which are made from a combination of powder and liquid polymers, are generally stronger than gel nail tips. As such, they serve best for longer lengths. But if you want an understated, natural look, nail tips with gel are definitely the way to go. Simply because gel tips are thinner and thus look more natural. And gel nail tips require curing under an LED lamp, which Le Mini Macaron stocks in spades!

When choosing gel nail tips, prioritize the size. If the size does not match your natural nails, it can, at best, look unnatural, and at worst, fall off. The thickness of the tip also matters. Thicker tips naturally prove to be stronger, though thinner tips are more flexible. Next you should consider the nail shape, and make sure it aligns with yours. And finally, the length. This is much more subjective: depending on the look, season or even the mood you’re in!

Generally, gel nail tips last up to four weeks. However, it is important to apply them with care and correctly, to prevent any air bubbles between the nail plate and the tip. Also be sure to keep your nails as short as possible, push back the cuticles, and buff your nail surface for better adhesion.

Ranging between size, shape and finish, our gel nail tips are available in Short Almond (matte & pre-buff effect), Medium Almond (clear),  Short Coffin (matte & pre-buff effect), Medium Coffin (clear), Short Round Square (matte & pre-buff effect), and Medium Square (clear). It’s important to always select the correct nail plate size before you adhere it to your nail. Applying the gel tips with care and precision will enhance their longevity.

Trim the tips of the gel nail extensions. File and break the top layer of the gel polish. Use cotton pads soaked in acetone to soak off the remaining gel polish from the nails. To do it faster, you can always use our Artificial Nail Glue Remover Pen. Lastly, moisturize: after removal, be sure to hydrate your nails and cuticles to restore moisture.

As with any mani, it’s a good idea to leave some room between applications. What does this mean? Give your nails some “free time,” once you’ve removed the tips by soaking. This means hydrating your nails with nail and cuticle oil, and fortifying your nails with a plant-based strengthener.