HARD GEL CLEAN MANI

by Karolina Zuk

ABOUT MASTERCLASS

The Hard Gel Clean Mani is a cutting-edge technique that blends precision, durability, and minimalist beauty. It’s transforming the nail industry with its sleek, natural look and long-lasting results, offering the perfect balance of style and strength.

In this masterclass, Karolina Zuk will guide you through the process using Kinetics Gel in Bottle—a light builder gel that combines quick application with the strength of traditional builder gels. This masterclass is designed to help you stay on top of the hottest trend, merging the best of both technique and product.

PRODUCTS USED 

Dehydrator
SHIELD Rubber Base
Gel in Bottle #902
SHIELD Smart Top


STEP BY STEP

1. Prep the nail. Prep the cuticle line and nail surface using an e-file and 150-grit file. Apply a dehydrator and bonder. Shaping is done only after the top coat.

2. Rubber base application. Apply a thin, gripping layer of SHIELD Rubber Base, cure for 30s under UV/LED. You can do all 5 nails at a time. 

3. Apply Gel in Bottle on Tips. Apply a thin layer of Gel in Bottle to the tips, covering the free edge from all angles. Work on 4 nails at a time, curing the thumb separately, or 5 if you're quick. Cure for 60s under UV/LED. This step helps prevent chipping at the free edge.

4. Build the apex. Apply a thin, slip layer of Gel in Bottle, do not cure. This will allow better control of the product. Follow with a build layer to form the apex, focusing on the middle 2/3 of the nail. Turn the hand to level the product, ensuring even coverage on the sides. Cure each nail for 30s, then both hands for 60s.

5. Remove stickiness. Remove the sticky layer using a cotton pad soaked in Isopropyl alcohol cleanser. (Optional)

6. Apply Top. Apply SHIELD Smart Top Light or your favorite SHIELD top, cure 60s.
Work at the speed that is comfortable for you, whether it's one nail at a time, 4, or 5 nails.

7. Filing & Shaping. For the right thickness and free edge coverage with hard gel, shape the nail after product application. File down to desired shape and length. File from below to remove the natural nail at the edge, preventing lifting or chipping.