To extend nails using dual forms, follow these steps:
1. Prep Your Nails:
- Clean your nails thoroughly, pushing back the cuticles and removing any oils or old nail polish.
- Buff the surface of your nails lightly to remove the shine.
- Apply a dehydrator and primer to ensure better adhesion.
2. Choose the Right Dual Form Size:
- Select dual forms that fit each nail properly, ensuring they cover the entire nail bed without overlapping the skin.
3. Apply Base Coat:
- Apply a thin layer of base coat to your natural nails and cure under a UV or LED lamp according to the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Prepare the Dual Forms:
- Apply the nail extension product (acrylic, poly gel, or gel) inside the dual form. Use a spatula or brush to spread it evenly, focusing on the area that will cover your natural nail.
5. Apply the Dual Form to Your Nail:
- Press the dual form onto your nail, ensuring it is aligned correctly and covers the entire nail bed.
- Gently press down to remove any air bubbles and to ensure the product spreads evenly.
6. Cure the Nail:
- Cure the nail under a UV or LED lamp. Follow the curing times specified by the product.
7. Remove the Dual Form:
- Once cured, gently wiggle the dual form to remove it from the nail.
- The extended nail should be solid and in the shape of the dual form.
8. Shape and Finish:
- File and shape the extended nail to your desired length and shape.
- Buff the surface to smooth out any imperfections.
9. Apply Top Coat:
- Apply a top coat to seal and protect the nail extension.
- Cure under a UV or LED lamp.
10. Clean Up:
- Clean the nails with a cleanser or alcohol to remove any tacky residue from the top coat.
Additional Tips
- Ensure that each layer is cured properly to prevent lifting or breaking.
- Be gentle when pressing the dual form onto your nail to avoid product spillage.
- Practice makes perfect; it may take a few tries to get the technique just right.
