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Basic nail supplies for beginners
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items I find that a lot of beginner “must have” lists can be intimidating and not truly cost conscious. Here's a list of supplies that I recommend having on hand for those just starting out with gelx or dip nails. You honestly can start doing your nails at...
- cotton balls
- Isopropyl Alcohol 99%
- tin foil
- paper towels
- cotton balls
- Isopropyl Alcohol 99%
- tin foil
- paper towels
Sections
2
Basic must-haves
Basic "nice to haves"
Basic must-haves
Stuff you 100% need to start doing gelx or dip powder nails at home!
If you're just starting out I recommend using acetone to dehydrate your nails before applying primer, clean up excess gel, and off course remove old polish!
Onyx Professional 100% Acetone Nail Polish Remover
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I recommend using a glass cuticle pusher since it's pretty mess free and lasts a long time.
Glass Cuticle Pusher Set of 2 - Bona Fide Beauty
Cheap and gets the job done! Must have for making your polish or tips last.
AIMEILI Nail Prep Bond Primer, UV LED Gel Foundation
Honestly, the base coat is okay but the top coat has the BEST shine!
Beetles 2 Pcs No Wipe Gel Top Coat and Base Coat
It seems like a lot, but if you're tight on cash I recommend just getting some good files that can double as a buffer.
25 Pieces 100/180 Grits Nail Files and Buffers
Nice and simple, I would skip getting a large set if you're just starting out.
SAVITA 2pcs Nail Art Clean Up Brushes
Make sure your lamp is at least 48W to make sure your gel polish fully cures!
UV LED Nail Lamp, SUNUV Gel Nail Light 48W
My favorite gel tips from Amazon, a little pricey for the amount you get, but honestly worth it based on the quality + the fact that they aren't plastic.
AILLSA Almond Nail Tips - Upgraded Matte Soft Gel
For dip powder only: I LOVE these liquids, but make sure you use them in a well ventilated space to avoid getting dip flu!
Dip Liquids- dip base, dip activator, dip top, dip liquid, dip nail, dip powder, dip powder for nails, dip powder kit, nail, nails, nail dip
Basic "nice to haves"
Some extra basic supplies if you'd like to round out your supply kit.
Lint free wipes – good for wiping off residue for both dip and gel application. Plus this comes with a dispenser for alcohol!
1000PCS Nail Cotton Pads, Push Down Pump Dispenser
Nice if you want a bit more control when it comes to buffing your nails + perfect for single use if you're doing a friend's nails.
CGBE Mini Nail Buffer Block 180/100 Grit 50PCS
Yes it's SHEIN…but I love these brushes and the ones on Amazon are 2-3 times the amount for the same brush set.
5pcs Nail Brush | SHEIN USA
I recommend getting a jar with a cover so that your acetone doesn't evaporate!
Kalolary 2 Pcs Mini Dappen Dish for Nail Art
Honestly this has prevented me from buying more colors since I can make them myself using this palette!
Sibba Resin Nail Art Palette, Heart Shape
For basic nail art!
5 pc 2 Way Dotting Pen Tool Nail Art Tip Kit