When it comes to applying gel polish, less is more. It may feel like using thick coats of gel will ensure a sturdy base, but that’s actually quite the opposite: You run the risk of undercuring with heavy layers of gel, which can cause lifting and peeling. Instead, multiple thin coats, cured completely, will garner the best results. Start with a thin coat of Gelish base coat, and be sure to cap the free edge—that means swiping the edge of your nail with the brush. This creates a seal that will help prevent chipping. Follow with two thin coats of the Gelish Gel Polish color of your choice, capping the free edge each time, and curing after each layer. Finish with a Gelish top coat for that high-shine appearance.

Having the right tools and products on hand can make or break your results. First, it should go without saying that high-quality products from a reliable source should always be your go-to—no matter how appealing those brands on TikTok may look. It’s also important to know the right products and tools to use given your level of experience. Some products simply won’t perform as well for you at home as they will for a trained professional in a salon—and understanding that is half the battle. Opting for the best products for you is what will give you those salon-quality results. For example, Gelish Foundation is the trusted favorite base gel for its long-wear and non-damaging results. But, Gelish Quick Release Base Nail Gel produces the same results, yet removes 25% faster—which makes quite a bit of difference when you’re removing your gels at home.

Likewise, having a reliable LED light is key to achieving a proper cure—and thus a professional-looking mani. A must-have for DIYers and beginners alike is the new Gelish Go Kit, which includes everything you need for a full gel application. One of the best parts is that it comes with the Pocket LED Light, a compact, rechargeable LED lamp that cures your Gelish Gel Polish in just 45 seconds. It’s small enough to toss in a bag, but powerful enough to work with all your gel products, including Soft Gel and PolyGel Brand. The coolest part? The light twists open to accommodate longer nails and even toes, making it super versatile for all kinds of at-home nail sessions.

Once you’ve applied your gel top coat and cured your final layer, swipe your nails with Nail Surface Cleanse to remove the tacky layer and reveal a glossy finish. Apply a little Nourish with Hyaluronic Acid Cuticle Oil and admire your work—you just pulled off a salon-level mani, no appointment necessary!