3 Ways to Use Structure Gel
Let’s talk about Gelish Structure Gel. I’ve featured this product several times on my Instagram and IG Nail Tutorials and I get some questions about what it is and how to use it. I absolutely love this product and I’ve used it every single time I do a nail application on myself. Every. Single. Time.
What is Gelish Structure Gel?
A clear soak off gel product used to strengthen the nail.
How is Structure Gel Used?
I use this product for 3 reasons:
- Strengthening
- Sealing in art
- Avoid discoloration
Strengthening
Structure Gel is great for those who want added strength to their natural nails without having to resort to gel or acrylics. It can be applied on top of a cured base coat before the color application and the beauty of this product is that it’s applied like a gel-polish. Which means it’s thin enough that you won’t notice the extra layer, but strong enough that you’ll notice the added strength. Win-win!
Oh, and it will remove along with the usual soaking of gel colored polish. Another win-win-win!
Sealing In Art
When it comes to adding stickers, foil, or tattoos to the nail, Structure Gel works wonders to seal art and ensure they will last. After the application of the desired art, apply a layer of Structure Gel on top. Making sure to completely cover the entire nail (especially the edges of the art).
After curing, finish with the usual Top Coat, wipe clean with alcohol and VOILA!
*Tip: If you are using Structure Gel to add strength + seal in art, you can use the layer to seal in art AS your strengthening layer. That way you don’t have to add a Structure Gel layer before color then again after color.
Makes sense?
Kill 2 birds with one stone. This will help save product and time during an application.
Discoloration
Lighter nail colors, even though beautiful, can be quite annoying to keep clean. Ever wonder why that is? Well, it’s because gel-polish is a porous product. Meaning it can absorb whatever it comes in contact with resulting in stains that are more visible on lighter (or brighter neon) shades. Things like; make up, hair color, dark denim, and our precious skin care products containing chemicals can disrupt the Top Coat of our fabulous mani.
Structure Gel can help with this! Apply a layer after polish color for added stain protection. It can be the difference of a color staying vibrant for 2 weeks or 2 days.
Watch me apply Structure Gel after color to prevent staining below!
As always leave your comments and questions in the comments section below. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have about this product!
Tori
Hi there! I’ve been using this without colour and I have a hard time making it last and not peel off! I’ve tried everything and i make sure the nail plate is very clean and very buffed sos help me
chia
Hi Tori-
Thanks for your comment! It would be impossible for me to say for sure unless I watched your application, but it could be the prep. Reaaaallllyyy make sure you are removing all debris and oil on the nail plate-especially the side walls. Also make sure you are wiping the nail thoroughly with acetone.
You could also be applying too much product, which can cause the product to not cure properly.
I hope this helps!
-Chia
Jo’Vonna
Hi Chia!
I’m so happy I found your page. I was desperately searching the internet for detailed instructions and I am so blessed to have landed on your blog post. I really enjoy your clear and concise writing style as well as the photos that you provided. Thanks again. I’m going to do my nails now.
chia
Jo’Vonna!
I am so glad you found me, too!! Appreciate your feedback and wishing you the best during all your nail applications! Feel free to follow along on IG @chia_habte, where I share my nail tutorials and more tips!
Much love,
Chia
Monique
Hi Chia,
So glad I came across you blog!!! I’ve been doing my own nails for a while and am having a hard time with apply brush on structure gel with gel polish on top. I’ve seen a lot of YouTube videos with ppl applying it and applying color over it and I have also seen ppl apply it wipe with alcohol and buff the shines surface then apply gel color can you help with proper application for long lasting. Also I’m a hair stylist so stain resistant is key for me any tips?
chia
Monique,
Congrats on doing your nails! It can be quite the learning curve. Everyone has their own techniques when it comes to structure gel. I personally don’t wipe the tacky layer off and go straight into applying my gel color on top. Ahhh yes, stylists can have the hardest time keeping their polish stain free. Try putting a coat of gel structure on TOP of color to help with the staining. Also an actual gel top coat may be better for your day-to-day work. Instead of a soak off gel top coat.
If that makes sense!
Chia