Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right shade of gel polish?
Choosing from ON SALE! Gel Polish Colours is easier when you think about the finish, client preference, and the type of set you want to create.
Start by deciding whether the colour will be used as a full-coverage shade, a base for nail art, or an accent colour. Bright pinks, reds, blues, purples, and greens work well for statement sets, while soft pinks, nudes, taupes, and neutral tones are ideal for everyday salon appointments.
For salon use, it helps to build a colour collection that covers popular categories, including bridal tones, classic reds, seasonal shades, and bolder colours for clients who enjoy nail art.
If you’re buying for personal use, choose colours you can see yourself wearing with different outfits and on different occasions. Try combining versatile everyday colours with one or 2 brighter options so your collection feels more complete and suitable for different looks.
Because screen settings can affect how colours appear online, using swatches once the product arrives can help you see the shade more accurately before applying it. For nail technicians, painted swatch sticks also give clients a more reliable colour reference during consultations.
How can I get a smoother colour finish with gel polish?
It can be tempting to load more product onto the brush for a smoother finish, but controlled application is what actually delivers a clean result. Thick coats can flood the cuticle area, create uneven curing, and contribute to lifting over time. Before you begin, proper nail preparation also plays an important role in achieving a smooth finish.
Before applying gel polish, make sure the nail surface is thoroughly prepped, cleaned, and ready for colour. Then, apply thin, even coats and avoid overloading the brush, as a small amount of product often goes further than you might expect.
Apply a controlled amount of polish near the centre of the nail, then guide it towards the sidewalls and the free edge. Leave a fine margin around the cuticle and sidewalls for a cleaner, salon-quality result. If the colour looks slightly sheer after the first coat, resist the urge to apply a thick second layer. Instead, a second thin coat usually creates a more professional-looking finish.
For deeper shades, lightly cap the free edge to help support wear. If any polish touches the surrounding skin, remove it before curing. This helps keep the finished set neat and reduces the chance of lifting around the edges.
Do I need to mix or roll gel polish before using it?
Yes, it’s good practice to gently roll gel polish before use, especially if the bottle has been stored for some time.
Like many pigmented formulas, gel polish can settle over time, and rolling the bottle helps redistribute the colour for a more consistent application. This step is particularly useful for highly pigmented shades, lighter colours, shimmer finishes, and bottles that have been stored for several weeks between uses.
Avoid shaking the bottle aggressively, as this can introduce air bubbles into the product that may become visible during application. Instead, roll the bottle between your palms for a short time before opening it. The warmth from your hands can also help redistribute the pigments evenly.
Once opened, wipe excess product from the brush against the inside neck of the bottle so you can apply a controlled amount to each nail. This simple habit helps create a cleaner colour result across the entire set.
For home users, rolling the bottle before application can help reduce patchy coverage and uneven pigment distribution that can make DIY nail work frustrating. For nail technicians, it supports colour consistency between clients and helps keep each service reliable. A few seconds of preparation at this stage can save time correcting streaks or applying additional coats later in the service.
What base coat and top coat should I use with gel polish colours?
Choosing a compatible base coat and top coat is an important part of achieving long-lasting, salon-quality results. A suitable base coat helps the colour layer adhere to the natural nail or enhancement surface, while a top coat protects the finished colour and provides the desired finish, whether that’s high gloss or matte.
When using gel polish, we offer compatible base and top coat options to suit a range of nail types and services. Natural nails work well with a compatible gel base, while enhancements may require the colour to be applied over a properly finished acrylic, gel, or builder surface. Choose a top coat that matches your preferred finish.
For the best results, apply thin layers and cure each product according to its instructions. While some products from different systems may be compatible, using NSI Nails products together provides a system designed to support smooth application, good retention, and consistent results.
How should I store gel polish colours so they stay in good condition?
Store gel polish in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and active nail lamps. Always close the lid firmly after use and keep the bottle upright where possible. Proper storage helps maintain the formula and keeps the product ready for future applications.
If polish has collected around the rim, wipe the bottle neck before closing the lid. This helps it seal properly and reduces product buildup around the opening. Keep the brush inside the bottle when not in use, and avoid leaving the bottle open longer than necessary while working.
Whether you’re a nail technician or a home user, storing your bottles in an organised drawer or case makes them easier to find and helps protect them from unnecessary light exposure and accidental damage. Good storage habits also support cleaner bottles and reliable product performance over time.
