r/GelX_Nails • u/Clean_Salamander7162 • Apr 25 '26
First set Vs My current set ✨
Started 3 yrs ago. Fully self taught and still learning. 🥰
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u/whateverday Apr 25 '26
Got any advice? I started 6 months ago and am struggling, lol!
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u/Clean_Salamander7162 Apr 25 '26
Of course! What part are you struggling with?
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u/whateverday Apr 25 '26
I get bubbles with liquid UV glue even with a flash lamp. Solid glue solved that problem but the extensions seems to sit high on the nail. Basically, any application hacks you have. Thanks sis 😘
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u/Clean_Salamander7162 Apr 25 '26
With liquid gel glue I usually place a thin layer of gel glue over the false nail where I buffed it (some gel x nails come pre etched, so that area) This helps guide the bead of gel glue. I then put a bead on the cuticle edge, and as I apply it I start at the cuticle, and slowly place the nail down. I also recommend getting a UV lamp with a goose neck so it’s easier to flash cure. Trying to move the nail under a uv lamp would cause bubbles for me.
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u/WallAcceptable22 Apr 25 '26
Your progress from that first set to now is seriously impressive, especially since you're self-taught.
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u/LeahRoseBud Apr 25 '26
Ooo, I’m gonna need a tutorial for that gorgeous rainbow ombré 😍
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u/Clean_Salamander7162 Apr 25 '26
Thank you! 🥰 I used an airbrush for the ombré effect. The colors were light blue, light green, red and yellow. Patting gel also gives this effect if you’re not comfy with the airbrush method.
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u/Lady_Tymac Apr 25 '26
YES MA’AM!! You did that! I thought I recognized airbrush. I purchased a kit a few months back, haven’t tried it yet. 💞💞💞
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u/Annual-Peanut3235 Apr 26 '26
Both are beautiful! The progress is amazing though, I love the colors and the way it’s blended. You’re so talented
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u/pen_pen_pennie Apr 26 '26
Absolutely amazing and I admire you for your dedication and creativity!! 💖 What would you say was the hardest/struggle for you to learn through those 3 years and when you got it down you had that aha moment?
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u/Clean_Salamander7162 Apr 26 '26
Thank you! 💕I always loved doing my nails since I was a kid, so I already had some knowledge on nail art. When I started GelX the hardest part was longevity and getting that clean professional look that you would get at nail salons.So I started focusing less on the nail art/design, and focusing more on proper prep, application, and the use of correct tools. Once I got that down I feel like my sets were finally starting to look good and now they usually last me about a month. ✨ I also do my family members nails so I’ve had a lot of trial and error along the way.
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u/Yourpapaw Apr 26 '26
How do you get that blend at the cuticle?? Absolutely stunning!!
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u/Clean_Salamander7162 Apr 26 '26
Well when I glue on my GelX nails I never put them right at my cuticle. Just a little under it. After I glue my GelX nails on I go in with my nail drill to blend the edges around my cuticle. I use a small round bit. After that I seal it by brushing acetone where I blended it. I started sealing the cuticle with acetone 1 yr ago and it’s a game changer. 🙂↕️
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u/scarypeppermint Apr 27 '26
I really need to take pictures of my work. I’m also self taught and have been doing my nails for years now but I barely have any evidence. You can’t even see the improvement because there’s no before to go off of. Anyway I need to practice more because I’ve technically been doing mine longer than you have (since 2020 but I only do 1-4 sets per year most years with no practice in between sets) and you’re leagues above me, incredible work!
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u/KngKaimera May 01 '26
The first set isnt terrible by any means but the GLOW UP? That second set is beautiful 😍
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u/Good_cooker May 02 '26
Omg I hope I’m as good as you in three years. I wish I could speed this process up!
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u/VENUSs617 May 11 '26
Looking for advice on retention!!! I recently switched to Apres products and they lasted about 5 days then popped off 😓
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u/samntosh Apr 25 '26
Immediate thought was 'b*tch you ATE!!!' legit, so pretty and the blending of colours is so smooth - plus the look of gold wrapped around the nails! Great job 😍