Application Guide
01. Prep
02. Prime
03. Apply
Start with clean, dry hands. Gently push back your cuticles and lightly buff the surface of each nail to remove shine. Wipe with alcohol or a nail cleanser to remove any oils. This prep step is the key to long-lasting wear, no matter which method you choose.
Choose your application method:
• Sticky Tabs – Best for short-term wear or trying a style. Warm the sticky tabs with a hairdryer for a few seconds before applying to make them extra tacky, then press the tip on firmly for 20–30 seconds.
• Nail Glue – Great for longer wear. Apply a thin, even layer of glue to your natural nail and a small amount inside the tip. Press the tip on from cuticle to free edge, holding firmly to avoid bubbles.
• Extend Gel – For the longest, most secure wear. Apply a thin layer of extend gel to the nail, cure as directed, then add a small bead inside the tip and press on while curing under a lamp. Follow the product’s cure times carefully.
After application, avoid water and heavy oils for at least an hour so everything can fully set. If you feel any lifting, press and hold the tip down again for a few seconds. With good prep and the right method, your Gel Rx set will stay put and look fresh.
Achieving the Perfect Fit
All of our tips are the Apres Natural Gel-X tips. We offer preset sizes to make things easy:
• XS: 3, 6, 5, 7, 9
• S: 2, 5, 4, 6, 9
• M: 1, 5, 4, 6, 8
• L: 0, 4, 3, 5, 7
For the best fit, please order our sizing kit available on the website. Gel-X tips should feel snug against the side walls of your natural nail without digging in or pinching.
If a tip feels too wide, gently file the sides to match your natural nail shape. If it feels too narrow or pops off easily, size up and refine with a file. Take your time with sizing; once you find your perfect numbers, you can reuse them for future sets. Half sizes are available upon request.
Troubleshooting Tips
No More Lifting
Air Bubble Fix
If the edges are lifting, ensure you've thoroughly removed all oils with alcohol and gently pushed back your cuticles. A dry nail bed is key to a long-lasting bond.
Apply glue to both the natural nail and the tip. Press down starting from the cuticle at a 45-degree angle to push air toward the free edge.
Glue Mastery
Avoid using too little glue, which causes bubbles, or too much, which leads to messy overflow. A thin, even layer on both surfaces is the sweet spot.
Popping Off?
Check your sizing. If the tip is too small, it will pop off due to tension. Tip: If between sizes, always go larger and file the sides for a customized fit.
Safe Removal
- Soak your nails in warm soapy water with a splash of oil for 10-15 minutes.
- Gently lift the edges with an orange wood stick.
- Never force them off; if they don't budge, soak for longer.
- Clean your natural nails and the tips for reuse.
Gentle on your natural nails.