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Applying a gel nail strip is a simple process, but it does require some care and attention to achieve a beautiful result. Here are the steps to apply a gel nail strip correctly:

1. Prepare Your Nails
Remove old nail polish: If you still have old nail polish on, start by removing it with nail polish remover.
File your nails: Make sure your nails are filed into the desired shape (e.g., square, oval, etc.). Filing helps the gel strips adhere properly.
Clean your nails: Use a nail cleanser or an alcohol pad to remove oil and dirt from the nail surface.

2. Choose the Right Size Strip
Gel nail strips usually come in various sizes. Select the strip that best fits the width of your nail. It should not be wider than your nail bed—otherwise, it may lift at the sides.

3. Apply the Gel Strip
Remove the protective film: Gently take the gel strip out of the package and peel off the protective layer.
Position the strip on your nail: Place the strip at the base of your nail and press it down firmly. Make sure it lays evenly across the nail.
Press and smooth: Rub the strip firmly to ensure it sticks well. Be sure there are no air bubbles or creases.

4. Remove Excess Strip
Use a nail file to gently file away the excess strip at the edge of your nail. This ensures a clean finish.

5. Cure the Gel
Place your hands under a UV or LED lamp, depending on the type of gel strips you have. Most gel strips need to be cured for 30 seconds to 2 minutes to harden properly.

6. Finishing Touches
After curing, you can gently buff the nails to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections.
If desired, apply a top coat for extra shine and protection, and cure it under the UV lamp as well.

7. Maintenance
To make your gel strips last longer, try to avoid prolonged contact with water or cleaning products, or wear gloves while doing household chores.

And that’s it! Now you have beautiful, long-lasting gel nails without having to visit a professional salon.

11 Common Reasons Your Gel Polish Isn’t Lasting (and What to Do About It)

You’ve followed all the steps, cured your polish properly, and the gel nailstrip did not last very long—yet your gel is already lifting. Super frustrating, right?

Don’t worry, it’s often not about what you did wrong, but rather a combination of things that can interfere with your manicure. Here are 11 possible reasons why your gel polish isn’t sticking—and how to fix it:

1. Poor Nail Prep
If your nails aren't cleaned, buffed, and dehydrated properly before applying gel, the polish simply won’t stick well. Oils, dust, or leftover product can all weaken the bond.

2. Oily Nail Beds
Some people naturally have oilier nails, which can prevent proper adhesion and cause premature peeling.

💡 Tip: Use a buffer to gently roughen the nail surface and remove excess oil before you begin.

3. Sticky Gel Layers
If layers of gel polish aren’t cured fully under the lamp, they can remain tacky—and that sticky layer can lead to lifting and chipping.

4. Using Your Nails as Tools
Opening packages, scratching off stickers, or using your nails for anything other than looking pretty? That puts pressure on the polish and can cause it to lift.

5. Repeated Physical Trauma
Daily activities like constant typing or knocking your nails against hard surfaces can damage the nail and loosen the polish.

6. Chemical Exposure
Frequent exposure to cleaning products or harsh chemicals can break down the polish and weaken its bond with your nail.

7. Heat and Temperature Changes
Extreme heat or rapid temperature shifts can cause the gel to expand or contract, leading to peeling.

8. Medication Side Effects
Some medications—like antibiotics, blood pressure meds, antifungals, or chemotherapy—can change the composition of your nails, making it harder for polish to stay on.

9. Hormonal Fluctuations
Changes in hormones (during pregnancy, menopause, or due to thyroid issues) can affect nail growth and texture, making gel less effective.

10. Underlying Health Conditions
Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, thyroid imbalances, or iron deficiency can impact your nails' ability to hold onto gel polish.

11. Genetics
Sometimes, it’s just in your DNA. Naturally weaker or thinner nails may not bond as well with gel polish, no matter how carefully you apply it.

Yes! Muzenails™ nail strips are designed for easy removal without damaging your natural nails. Just gently peel them off, and your nails will stay healthy and smooth.

Our strips come in multiple sizes to fit a wide variety of nail shapes and sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for everyone.

No special tools are needed! Muzenails™ are super easy to apply, with just the nail strips, a UV lamp (included), and a nail file for a perfect finish.