How to apply Apres Gel-X tips and where to start!

by Canada Nails August 27th, 2024

So you’ve heard about Aprés Gel-X and would like to know more?

The Apres Gel-X system is a popular method for applying gel nail extensions that offers a quick, durable and
versatile alternative to traditional nail enhancements using pre-made tips and adhering them with a soft
gel formula. It is then cured with an LED lamp for a strong bond that can last up to four weeks with proper
care.

We're here to walk you through what you need to get started.

Start with an Après Gel-X kit and a box of tips of your choice or, if you prefer to purchase items
individually please see our list below. 

The Shopping List

These are the essential items to get started. There are many more options available but to keep it simple
we'll begin here. If you would like to explore more options, please reach out to us through our Live Chat
for further assistance.

•     Nail Files
•     Après PH Bonder
•     Après Acid Free Primer
•     Après Gel-X Prep, Acid Free Tip Primer
•     Après Extend Gel (For more Extend gel options please see the bottom of the page*)
•     Après Gel-X Tips 2.0 (See below for help choosing tips)
•     Après Gel Couleur Gel nail polish (Optional)
•     Après Top Coat
•     Curing lamp

How to choose your tips?

The first step is to decide if you need a Natural or a Sculpted style. Then you can decide on a tip shape
and length.

Natural vs Sculpted

• Natural tips have a flatter surface with a less pronounced C curve and are meant for clients with a flatter, wider nail bed. This is the most common style.
• Sculpted tips have a higher apex and a deeper C curve, meant for a more curved nail bed or a Natural client who prefers the look of a Sculpted Gel-X Tip.

Après Gel-X Tips Shapes 

There are 5 shapes to choose from: Coffin, Square, Stiletto, Almond and Round

Lengths start at Extra Short and go all the way up to XXL (Extra Extra Long). For individual tip length
measurements, please see the second picture under the individual product pages.

Please note that Extra Short tips are only suitable for very short nail plates. They will not fit average to
long nail plates correctly and will be short on the sides towards the free edge.

Après Gel-X Tips come in the following package sizes:

• Pro Size Boxes - 350 to 600 tips depending on the style, includes 14 different sizes
• Mini Boxes - 168 to 280 tips depending on the style, includes 14 different sizes
• Refill Bags - 50 pieces of one size only, to refill the most used sizes
• Size 000 (widest size) is available in Refill Bags only. Available in select shapes and lengths.

How to apply Après Gel-X Nail Tips

1. Shape the natural nails to the desired length and prep cuticles. Buff the surface lightly to remove shine and cleanse with alcohol
2. Apply Après PH Bonder to dehydrate the nail plate and removes any oils or residue
3. Then apply Après Acid Free Gel Primer. This creates a tacky layer for the Extend Gel to adhere to
4. Apply a thin even layer of Après Extend Gel onto the natural nail. Cure for 30 seconds in a LED lamp
5. Use Après Gel-X Prep to etch the underside of the Gel-X tip, Scrub with the brush until the AprVs logo disappears (Complete this step 1 nail at a time and apply)
6. Apply a bead of Après Extend Gel to the base of the underside of the tip. Apply the Après Gel-X tip at a 45° and gently press until the Extend Gel floats down to the natural nail free edge. Flash cure for 10 to 15 seconds with a Omni light
7. After tips have been applied to all 5 fingers, do a full cure for 60 seconds in a full hand LED Lamp

 Now you are ready to move on to nail art or Color Application. For more information please see  Après Nail Art in our How to Section

*Interested in more Extend Gel options? Here's a quick rundown; click on each to see the product for all
the details.

•     Après Extend gel Novice - Useful for beginners and has an ultra thick consistence. HEMA free
•     Après Extend gel 30ml - Most versatile Extend Gel, self-leveling consistency. It offers the strongest
  bonding qualities. Suggested for use once comfortable with the application process. Also
  available in a 15ml bottle
•     Après Extend Gel Sensitive - Self leveling consistency. HEMA free formula
•     Après Extend gel in a Jar - This is the original Extend Gel formula. Only slightly thicker than the bottle
  version and has the strongest bonding qualities. For those who prefer working with a brush and
  jar.
•     Après Color Extend Gel available in 6 colours
  •     Ariel
  •     Carla
  •     Roxie
  •     Yesica
  •     Instiable
  •     Sasha

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Apres Gel-X last?

Gel-X can last up to 4 weeks+ with proper application and care. The key is to make sure you have
properly prepared the nails and the tips prior to application, carefully following each step.
A couple of great troubleshooting tips to keep in mind are:

• Use Après Gel-X Tip Prep prior to each nail application; do one at a time and apply
• Be sure not to have ANY skin contact with the gel. This may take some practice but it of utmost importance for the tips to last and to prevent allergies

How do I remove Après Gel-X tips?

• Après Gel-X Tips can be removed by soaking or filing. Please view this Removal video for
  detailed instructions on our How to's page

Can I refill Après Gel-X tips?

• Yes, they can be filled once to extend the life of your set before having to rebalance them. Then a removal and new application is needed. Please view this “How to Fill Après Gel-X” video for detailed instructions

Additional Information

If you have more questions, please reach out to us through our Live Chat where we’d be happy to provide
immediate assistance. We can help with product selection as well as guidance and links to anything you may be looking for.