Gather supplies: gel base coat, gel color polish, gel top coat, UV/LED lamp, nail file, buffer, cuticle pusher, lint-free wipes, alcohol or cleanser, and optional cuticle oil
Wash hands and dry thoroughly
Remove old polish
Shape nails with a file
Gently push back cuticles
Lightly buff the nail surface
Clean nails with alcohol or cleanser to remove dust and oils
Apply a thin layer of gel base coat
Cure under the lamp for the recommended time
Apply a thin layer of gel color polish
Cure under the lamp
Apply a second thin layer of gel color polish
Cure under the lamp
Apply a thin layer of gel top coat
Cure under the lamp
Wipe off any sticky residue if needed with alcohol or cleanser
Apply cuticle oil if desired
Avoid water and heavy use for a short time after application
Remove gel nails later by filing the top coat, soaking with acetone, and gently lifting softened gel off with a cuticle tool