How to Apply Gelish Nail Polish: A Step-by-Step Tutorial for a Long-Lasting Manicure

Gelish nail polish offers salon-quality results right at home, combining the durability of gel with the look of classic nail lacquer. Whether you’re using a Gelish starter kit or just need a refresher on the proper application process, here’s a complete guide to help you get flawless, chip-free nails that last for weeks.

What Is Gelish Polish?

Gelish is a soak-off gel polish system that cures under an LED or UV lamp. Unlike traditional polish, Gelish hardens instantly when cured, making it ideal for those who want a high-shine, long-lasting manicure without frequent touch-ups.

What You Need Before You Start

To perform a proper Gelish gel manicure, gather the following items:

• Gelish pH Bond

• Gelish Foundation (base coat)

• Gelish color polish

• Gelish Top It Off (top coat)

• Nail cleanser (isopropyl alcohol or Gelish Cleanser)

• Lint-free wipes

• Nail file and buffer

• Cuticle pusher

• LED or UV nail lamp

If you’re using a Gelish starter kit, it should include most of these essentials.

Gelish Application Steps

Follow these directions carefully to ensure optimal results:

1. Prep the Nails

• Gently push back cuticles and remove any dead skin.

• Shape your nails with a file and lightly buff the nail surface to remove shine.

• Wipe nails with a lint-free wipe soaked in cleanser to remove dust and oils.

2. Apply pH Bond

• Apply a thin layer of Gelish pH Bond to the natural nail. This helps dehydrate the surface and improve adhesion.

3. Apply Foundation Base Coat

• Brush on a thin, even layer of Gelish Foundation.

• Cure under an LED lamp for 30 seconds or UV lamp for 1 minute.

• After curing, your nails will be tacky—do not wipe this layer.

4. Apply Gelish Color Polish

• Apply a thin coat of your chosen Gelish polish color.

• Cure under the lamp (30 seconds LED, 2 minutes UV).

• Repeat with a second coat and cure again.

• For deeper color, apply a third coat if needed, curing after each layer.

5. Apply Top It Off

• Seal your manicure with a layer of Gelish Top It Off top coat.

• Cure again under the lamp.

6. Cleanse the Nails

• Use a lint-free wipe and cleanser to gently remove the tacky layer left after curing the top coat. This reveals the glossy finish underneath.

Gelish Order of Application (Quick Recap)

1. Prep (shape, buff, cleanse)

2. pH Bond

3. Foundation (cure)

4. Color polish (cure each layer)

5. Top It Off (cure)

6. Cleanse

Gelish Soak-Off Removal Instructions

When it’s time to remove the polish:

• File the top layer to break the seal.

• Soak a cotton ball with acetone and place it on the nail.

• Wrap each nail in foil and let sit for 10–15 minutes.

• Gently push off the polish with a cuticle stick—never force it.

Final Tips for Beginners

• Always use thin coats to avoid wrinkling or bubbling.

• Cap the free edge of your nails to prevent lifting.

• Make sure each layer is fully cured before proceeding.

With the right technique and tools, Gelish manicures can last up to three weeks with minimal maintenance. Practice makes perfect, and once you’ve mastered these steps, you’ll never want to go back to regular polish.