How to Apply Nail Polish Properly (Step by Step)

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Nail polish is a quick and easy way to add color to your nails without UV light. While it's simple to use, applying it flawlessly can be tricky. Even small mistakes can ruin the look.

In this guide, we'll walk you through how to apply nail polish step by step, plus pro tips for long-lasting shine. Whether you're a beginner or just want a better finish, these techniques will help you apply nail polish like a pro. Keep reading to learn how to get salon-quality nails at home!

What You Need to Apply Nail Polish Like a Pro

Before applying nail polish, gather the right nail tools for a smooth process. Here's what you'll need:

Nail polish remover
Cotton pads or lint-free wipes
Nail file and buffer
Cuticle pusher or cuticle stick
Base coat
Your chosen nail polish
Top coat

Steps to Apply Nail Polish Perfectly

Now that you have everything ready, just walk through each step for a perfect manicure. Follow these easy instructions for flawless, long-lasting color.

1. Prep Your Nails

To get the best results from your manicure, nail prep is key. It helps the polish go on evenly and stay on longer. Follow these steps to get your nails ready.

Step 1. Remove old nail polish completely

Start with clean, bare nails for the best gel polish application. If you have old polish, remove polish completely with Beetles nail remover to avoid drying out your nails. For sensitive nails, acetone-free polish remover is a better choice, as they don't dry out your nails like acetone does.

Step 2. Soften and trim cuticles

If you have cuticles, it is advisable to soak your nails in warm water for a few minutes, or use cuticle remover to soften your cuticles. Then, gently push back the cuticles with a cuticle pusher or a cuticle stick.

Make sure you never cut them, as this can lead to infections. Then lightly buff the nail surface with a fine-grit nail file or buffer from Beetles to remove shine. This helps the polish adhere better. But avoid over-filing, as this may weaken nails.

Step 3. Clean the nail surface

Then, wash your hands with mild soap and a soft nail brush to remove dust, oils, and residue. Dry thoroughly, since any moisture can prevent the gel from curing properly.

Step 4. Shape your nails

Finally, shape your nails with a nail file. Choose a style—square, round, or oval, and file in one direction to prevent splitting. Now your nails are ready for the base coat.

2. Apply a Base Coat

A quality base coat creates the perfect foundation for nail polish. The base coat from Beetles, for example, protects your natural nails from staining and helps the color last longer without chipping.

We recommend using a thin and even layer, as too much product can lead to uneven curing or peeling. Just start in the center of the nail near the cuticle, then brush toward the tip without touching the skin.

Then let it dry for about 1-2 minutes. If it's still sticky, wait a bit longer before moving to the next step. Skipping this may make your polish chip sooner.

3. Apply Nail Polish

Now for the color! No matter whether you are going to use neon nail polish, jelly nail polish, or glitter nail polish, the key to applying nail polish perfectly is working in thin layers. Once finished, you'll get a smooth, consistent look without any bubbles.

To make nail polish thinner, pick up just a small amount of polish on your brush. Then apply the polish using 3 gentle strokes. Start in the center, then fill in each side to make sure the polish goes on smoothly and even. Keep the edges clean by leaving a tiny gap between the polish and your skin.

Allow each layer of polish to dry for 1 to 5 minutes before applying the next. For opaque shades, you'll need 2 to 3 thin coats for full coverage. If you're using a fast-drying formula, the drying time might only take 30 seconds. For best results, wait about 5-15 minutes between layers to ensure it's fully dry.

Tip: If you make mistakes, don't worry! Don't try to fix them yet. You can easily clean them up. Read on to learn how to do so.

4. Clean up Smears

Bright nail polish shades are more likely to show small mistakes, especially around the edges of your nails. Cleaning up smears at this stage helps the topcoat go on smoothly, without locking in any mess underneath.

If you notice any smudges or polish on your skin, clean them up before moving on. Use a small brush or cotton pad dipped in nail polish remover to gently tidy the edges.

5. Apply a Top Coat

To protect your polish, applying a top coat is necessary. A thin layer of Beetles's top coat helps avoid issues like bubbling or peeling.

Use the same technique as your base coat - start near the cuticle and brush toward the tip in smooth strokes. Cover the entire nail surface, including the very edge, to prevent chipping.

Then let it dry for 10-15 minutes to ensure the top coat is fully dry.

Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Nail Polish

Want your gel manicure to stay flawless for weeks? These professional tricks will help extend your polish life.

Start with a clean base: Begin with clean, dry nails to prevent early lifting and peeling
Keep it light: Apply thin layers of polish rather than thick coats for better adhesion
Seal the edges: Seal the deal by wrapping polish slightly under each nail tip
Avoid water too soon: Keep hands away from water for 1-2 hours after application
Protect your hands: Wear gloves during cleaning and dishwashing to protect your color
Nourish your nails: Massage cuticle oil daily to maintain nail flexibility
Touch up regularly: Refresh with a new top coat layer every 4-5 days

FAQs About Applying Nail Polish Properly

How long for nail polish to dry?

The drying time depends on the product and how thick each layer is.

A base coat usually dries in 1 to 2 minutes.
Nail polish takes 1 to 5 minutes per layer, or up to 15 minutes if applied thick.
A top coat needs about 10 to 15 minutes, or 5 with a quick-dry type.

To make nail polish dry faster, you can use fast-drying formulas or try a quick-dry spray. You can also let your nails air dry for a few minutes, then use a hair dryer on the cool setting.

How to apply nail polish perfectly on short nails?

Following the aforementioned instructions helps you apply nail polish smoothly. But if your nails are very short, when applying each layer, skip capping the nail tips to avoid smudging. And after each coat, clean the edges with an angled brush dipped in acetone for a neat finish.

Start an Easy Nail Polish Manicure with Beetles

Now you know how to apply nail polish properly at home! With the right technique and quality products, you can enjoy long-lasting and professional results. If you find that you lack some nail tools or would like to try stunning colors of Beetles nail polish, shop and order from Beetles Official Site to get everything you need for flawless nails! You can also find products from Beetles via Beetles Amazon Store or Beetles Temu Store.

September 8, 2025

How to Remove Press-On Nails Without Damage

Press-on nails are a fantastic way to switch up your look, and one of their best features is that you can often reuse them. However, proper removal is key to keeping them in good shape and protecting your natural nails. It can be tempting to just peel or force them off, but this can cause significant damage. This guide is here to help you learn how to remove press-on nails safely and effectively. We will walk you through different methods, including those with acetone and some gentler acetone-free options. Following these steps will ensure your nails stay healthy and ready for your next set. Read Also:How to Apply Press-on Nails Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide5 Best Nail Glues for Press-On Nails That Last for Weeks 1. Gather Supplies to Safely Remove Press-On Nails Getting all the nail tools together beforehand makes press-on nail removal much smoother and easier. Here is what you should gather before you start: A bowl of warm water Cuticle oil Cuticle pusher or cuticle sticker Nail file and buffer Nail glue remover or acetone (if you used a strong glue for application) 2. How to Remove Press-on Nails Without Acetone If you want to avoid harsh chemicals, this method is much gentler on your hands and nails. Here is a step-by-step guide to removing them safely. Step 1. Soak Your Nails To start the removal, you'll first need to prepare a warm water bath for your nails. Simply fill a small bowl with warm water, then add a few drops of cuticle oil or even olive oil. This combination works together to soften the adhesive, making the removal process much easier while also keeping your skin moisturized. Once your soak is ready, place your fingertips into the water. Let them soak for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until you can feel the edges of the nails starting to lift and loosen. This gentle method is very effective at protecting your natural nails from harm during removal. An added benefit is that it also helps preserve the press-on nails, keeping them in great condition so you can easily use them again. Step 2. Gently Take off the Press-On Nails Once your nails have finished soaking, you can begin the gentle removal process. The exact method will depend on whether you used adhesive tabs or nail glue to apply your press-ons. For nails that used adhesive tabs: If you used adhesive tabs, the nails should now be loose enough to come off easily. Take a wooden cuticle stick or cuticle pusher and gently push it along the sides of the press-on nail. By carefully working the stick around the edges, the nail should lift off without any effort. For nails that used nail glue: For nails that were applied with glue, you can use an acetone-free nail glue remover, which is much gentler on your natural nails and skin. To do this, Beetles acetone-free nail glue remover is a great choice, because it includes beneficial ingredients like Vitamin E to help nourish your cuticles. To use an acetone-free nail glue remover: Apply the remover to the gap between your natural nail and the press-on. Let it sit for about 1 minute to work on the glue. Use a cuticle stick or cuticle pusher to gently lift the edge. If you feel any resistance, stop and apply more remover. You may need to repeat this a few times. Remember to never force the nail off, as this can cause damage. Step 3. Clean Residue After the press-on nails are off, you might feel the nail sticky or some glue residue left on your natural nails. Simply use a cuticle pusher or a soft nail file and buffer to gently scrape off any leftover. For a final clean, wipe each nail with an alcohol pad or a lint-free wipe. This will remove any remaining sticky film, leaving your natural nails ready for a fresh start. Step 4. Apply Nail Treatment When your nails are clean, it's a good idea to moisturize them. Removing press-on nails can be a little drying, so a good nail treatment is important. Gently massage a few drops of cuticle oil into your cuticles and the surface of each nail. This oil helps to rehydrate and nourish your nails, keeping them strong and preventing them from becoming brittle. 3. How to Remove Press-on Nails with Acetone Sometimes, press-on nails with a very strong adhesive can be difficult to remove. If you have a stubborn set, using acetone is an effective solution. This method is much faster. However, you should know that it will dissolve the press-on nails, so you will not be able to reuse them. Acetone is also a powerful chemical and can be very drying to your natural nails and the skin around them. Here are the steps for removing press-on nails with acetone: Prepare a small bowl: Pour a small amount of 100% acetone into a glass or ceramic bowl. Do not use a plastic bowl as the acetone can melt it. You can also add some cuticle oil to the acetone to help protect your skin from drying out. File the nail tops: Use a nail file to gently file away the top layer of the press-on nails. This helps the acetone soak in more quickly. You can also file the edges and the tip to help the acetone get to the nail glue underneath. Soak your nails for 5 to 10 minutes: Place your fingertips directly into the bowl of acetone. Make sure the acetone covers your nails. Then soak for 5 to 10 minutes. As the glue dissolves, the press-on nails will become soft and gummy. Do not force them off. If they are still feeling tight, soak them for a few more minutes. Gently remove: Once the nails are soft, use a cuticle stick to gently push them off. The nails should be lifted away without any pulling or pain. Be very gentle to avoid scratching your natural nail plate. Wash your hands: After all the nails are off, wash your hands with soap and water to remove any remaining acetone. Follow up with a rich hand cream and cuticle oil to rehydrate your nails and skin. Acetone is very drying, so this step is extremely important for keeping your hands healthy. Safely Remove Press-On Nails with Beetles Removing your press-on nails safely and effectively is key to keeping your natural nails healthy. If the adhesive is too stubborn, using acetone is an option, but you will not be able to reuse your nails. For a gentle approach that saves your press-ons for future use, the water and oil soak works for those with adhesive tabs. Acetone-free nail glue remover is also an effective option, especially for press-ons with glue. Many of the helpful products mentioned, like Beetles acetone-free nail glue remover, can be found on Beetles Official Site, Beetles Amazon Store, and Beetles Temu store. No matter which method you choose, always be patient and gentle to protect your nails.

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September 8, 2025

How to Apply Press-on Nails Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

Press-on nails are a fantastic choice for a quick and affordable manicure, allowing you to effortlessly experiment with different styles. With the proper technique, you can enjoy a flawless and durable manicure that looks professionally done! If you are looking for such methods, you are in the right place. This article provides a complete step-by-step guide on how to apply press-on nails, using both adhesive tabs and nail glue. Even if you are a beginner, you will soon be able to put on your press-on nails at home like a pro! Keep reading to discover the secrets to a perfect application. Read Also:How to Remove Press-On Nails Without Damage7 Proven Tips to Make Press-On Nails Last Longer What You'll Need to Apply Press-on Nails Before you get started, gathering all your nail tools will help make the application process go smoothly. Here is everything you will need. Cuticle stick or cuticle pusher Nail file and buffer Cotton pads or lint-free wipes Double-sided nail adhesive tabs or nail glue Press-on nails in multiple sizes to fit every finger How to Apply Press-on Nails Step by Step Once you have all your supplies laid out, you're ready to start the application process. Just follow the steps below and get started! Step 1. Prep Your Nails Properly preparing your natural nails is the most important secret to a long-lasting and flawless press-on manicure. Follow this essential first step to ensure the adhesive can work effectively. Push back cuticles: Gently push them back with a cuticle stick or a dedicated pusher. This step cleans up your nail bed and helps the press-on nail sit more naturally and securely. File and shape your nails: You can use a nail file and buffer from Beetles to even out the edges, and then gently roughen the surface of each nail. Clean your nails: Take a cotton pad or a lint-free wipe with a bit of alcohol or nail polish remover. Then swipe it over each nail to remove any oil and dust. Step 2. Put on Press-on Nails Now that your natural nails are prepped and clean, you can start applying your new set! Match each press-on nail to your nails: Lay out the press-on nails and find the perfect size for each finger. Having the right size is very important for a natural look and a strong hold. If you are debating between two sizes, choose the smaller one so it does not overlap your skin. Apply adhesive tabs or nail glue: For short-term wear, like for a party or a special occasion, consider using adhesive tabs. Ensure it covers the entire surface without any bubbles. If you want your manicure to last for 2 to 3 weeks, nail glue is the better choice. When using glue, apply a thin layer to your natural nail and the back of the press-on nail. Make sure you make it thin; otherwise, it will flood on the cuticle. Put on press-on nails: Holding the press-on nail at a 45-degree angle, align it with your cuticle. Slowly lower it down onto your natural nail. Press firmly down on the nail for 10 to 30 seconds to make sure it has a strong bond. If you need to, you can use a nail file to slightly adjust the shape or length of the press-on nail after it is on. For a great experience, many press-on nail kits from brands like Beetles Gel Polish come with everything you need. They offer a wide range of styles and shapes, including classic French tips, almond, square, and even Halloween nails. The kits are also made in a variety of sizes to ensure a perfect fit. Some press-on nail kits even include all the tools you need, like a file, cuticle sticks, and both adhesive tabs and glue. Step 3. Complete the Final Touch Given that all your press-on nails are on, a few final touches will help you achieve a flawless finish and make sure your manicure lasts. These simple steps can make all the difference. (Optional) Add your designs: You can add a clear top coat for extra shine and protection, or even place small nail stickers or apply nail stampers on top for a unique look. Apply cuticle oil: To make your manicure healthy, add some cuticle oil and gently massage the nail until it is completely absorbed. Wait for a while: Wait before you get your hands wet or do any heavy work. If you used adhesive tabs, it is best to wait at least 2 hours. If you used nail glue, you should wait at least one hour. FAQs About Applying Press-on Nails How to file the press-on nails to fit my fingers? It is similar to filing your natural nails. Using a nail file, gently work around the perimeter of the press-on nail, filing a little bit from each side. It is best to go slowly and check the fit against your finger often. For your convenience, you can try the 720pcs short almond press-on nails kit or the 576pcs short squaval press-on nails kit from Beetles. These kits offer a variety of sizes and colors to let your fingers shine with the perfect fit. How to apply press-on nails to last longer? To make press-on nails last longer, proper nail prep is essential. Using nail glue is recommended for a strong and long-lasting hold. Make sure you avoid water for 1-2 hours to let the glue fully cure. Perfect Your Press-on Nails Manicure with Beetles With the right tools and a little practice, applying press-on nails at home is simple and effective. By properly preparing your nails and using the right adhesive, you can achieve a beautiful and salon-quality look that lasts for weeks. You can follow the steps in this guide to get a perfect manicure every time! If you are looking for high-quality products, you can find a wide variety of press-on nails with Beetles, along with all the nail tools. All the products can also be found at Beetles Amazon Store and Beetles Temu Store.

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August 14, 2025

How to Remove Gel Nail Polish at Home

Though gel nail polish offers long-lasting color and shine, improper removal can lead to peeling, thinning, or brittle nails. To help you easily remove gel nail polish at home, this guide will show you step-by-step guides using both acetone and acetone-free methods, plus tips for post-removal nail care. Before you begin, do not try to pick or peel off your gel polish as it may damage your nails. Then read on to learn how to safely remove gel nail polish and keep your nails healthy. Read Also:How to Remove Press-On Nails Without DamageHow to Apply Gel Nail Polish Perfectly: A Beginner-Friendly GuideHow to Apply Nail Polish Properly (Step by Step) How to Remove Gel Nail Polish with Acetone Gel polish stays on because it hardens under UV light, making regular remover ineffective. Acetone breaks down this tough layer, making it the fastest way to remove gel polish. However, acetone can dry out nails and cuticles, so if you have sensitive skin, a gentler acetone-free method may be better. You can scroll down the post to find the solution. Below, we'll cover the nail tools you need for safe acetone removal and step-by-step instructions. Keep reading to learn how to do it properly. What You'll Need to Take Off Gel Nail Polish Make sure you've got your essentials lined up. These are the must-haves. Acetone nail polish remover Cotton (balls or pads in small pieces) Plastic wrap or foil Nail file Cuticle stick or cuticle pusher Cuticle oil or hand cream How to Safely Remove Gel Nail Polish Once set up, simply follow the steps below to remove gel nail quickly. 1. Protect your skin: Apply a small amount of hand cream or cuticle oil around your nails. This helps shield the skin around your nails from drying out when it comes into contact with acetone. 2. Gently file the top layer of polish: Use your nail file to gently buff away the top coat. This helps the acetone soak through more easily. Be careful not to file too aggressively, as this can thin your natural nails. Just remove enough shine to create a slightly rough texture. 3. Soak cotton balls and wrap up Fingers: Soak cotton balls or a piece of cotton pad with nail polish remover from Beetles. Then place the soaked cotton directly on each nail. Wrap each fingertip with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep the cotton in place. This traps heat and helps the acetone work faster. Tip: For each pinkie or little toe, it is recommended to use about 1/4 of a cotton ball. As for the rest of the nails, go for 1/2 of a cotton ball. 4. Wait for 10-15 minutes: Set a timer and relax while the acetone breaks down the gel. Try not to move your hands during this time. Don't check too early, since it's important to give it time to soften the gel. 5. Gently remove the wraps: Unwrap one finger at a time. Twist the foil slightly as you pull it off. The gel polish will come off with the cotton if it's soft enough. 6. Push off any leftover gel: Use a cuticle stick or a soft cuticle pusher to gently lift off any remaining polish. If it's stubborn, rewrap that nail for a few more minutes. 7. Clean your nails: Simply clean your nails with cotton pads. If you have alcohol wipes on hand, that would be better. This also helps sanitize the nail surface. 8. Moisturize your skin: Massage cuticle oil into your nail beds and apply rich hand cream. This helps restore moisture and keep your nails healthy. How to Remove Gel Nail Polish without Acetone While acetone works quickly, it can leave nails dry and brittle. If you're dealing with sensitivity or want a more nurturing approach, acetone-free removal might be your best choice. But note that these gentler methods often take a longer time to remove gel nails. In this section, we'll walk through 2 no-acetone methods that are kinder to your nails. If you are interested, just keep reading. 1. Using Acetone-free Remover Using an acetone-free nail polish remover is a gentler option for taking off gel polish. They are often made with natural oils, like vitamin E or soy, which help keep your nails and cuticles moisturized during the process. This makes them a good choice for people with sensitive skin or nails that get dry or brittle easily. Here's how to remove gel nail polish without acetone: Soak a cotton ball with the remover and place it on your nail. Wrap your fingertip in foil or use a nail clip to hold it in place. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes. You may need to gently push off any leftover polish with a cuticle stick, since these removers work more slowly. Note: Avoid scraping too hard, and never peel or force off the polish. 2. Buff and File Gel Polish If you don't want to use any remover, using nail files and buffers to remove gel polish can be an alternative solution. This method takes time and care, and may thin your nails, but it works if done properly. Besides, it's important to go slowly. Nail buffers and files can be harsh, and rushing may cause damage to your natural nails. Here's how to do it: Use a medium-grit nail file (180-240 grit) to gently file the shiny top coat. Keep filing until most of the color is gone. Stop before reaching your natural nail. Switch to a fine-grit nail buffer to smooth out any rough spots. Wipe your nails clean with a soft cloth or cotton pad. Always check your nails during the process. If you feel sore or thin, stop right away and give them time to recover. Nail Recovery Tips After Gel Removal After removing gel polish, your nails need proper care to restore strength and moisture. Follow these essential recovery tips: Moisturize hands frequently: Apply Beetles cuticle oil or any hand cream to nourish nails and surrounding skin. Use a nail strengthener: Use nail strengtheners or enhancers with keratin, collagen, or essential proteins to help rebuild fragile nails. Give your nails a break: Allow 5-7 days between gel applications to let nails breathe and regain natural flexibility. Wear protective gloves: Use gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to shield nails from water damage and harsh chemicals. File nails carefully: Keep nails short and use a fine-grit nail file to prevent cracks and splits. Conclusion This guide covers how to remove gel polish at home, with and without acetone. The fastest way is to use an acetone nail polish remover. It works well and removes gel polish quickly. As a leading brand in the industry, Beetles Gel Polish offers gel nail polish removers and nail tools designed to break down gel polish effectively while minimizing damage. If you are looking for a safe choice for regular at-home use, feel free to try it out. You can also find our products on the Beetles Amazon Store and Beetles Temu Store. If you have sensitive skin or want a gentler solution, non-acetone methods are also available. These approaches take a longer time, but are softer on the skin and nails. No matter which method you choose, always keep an eye on your nails. Stop if you notice any irritation or damage. Taking your time and being gentle helps keep your nails healthy during the removal process!

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How to Apply Nail Polish Properly (Step by Step)

What You Need to Apply Nail Polish Like a Pro