Flake Nails: How to Encapsulate Flakes Under Gel

Flakes gel · 6 steps · iridescent sparkle

Flake gel suspends iridescent flakes so they catch the light from every angle. The secret to a smooth finish is thin layers and a clear top coat over the top.

1. 1

   Prep and base

   File, buff and wipe the nail, then dehydrate with pH Bond. Brush on a thin coat of base coat, cap the free edge, and cure.

   TipFlakes sit on top of the color, so a smooth nail matters.

2. 2

   Choose the ground

   A dark ground, such as Super Black, makes flakes look like a night sky. A nude or sheer pink gives a softer glitter.

   TipCure the ground fully so the flakes have a firm surface.

3. 3

   Shake and swipe

   Shake the Flakes Gel bottle well. Brush on one thin coat, or dab the gel on only where you want the flakes. Cure.

   TipA little gel with flakes in it goes a long way.

4. 4

   Build the sparkle

   If you want more flakes, add a second thin layer and cure. Several thin layers look smoother than one thick one.

   TipTidy any flake that sticks out from the cuticle with a small brush before curing.

5. 5

   Encapsulate

   Seal the flakes under a Diamond No Wipe Top Coat. Brush it on in a thin layer, cure, and repeat if the surface still feels bumpy.

   TipA clear top coat over flakes is what makes them feel smooth.

6. 6

   Finish

   Cure, wipe if needed, and finish with cuticle oil.

   TipUse flakes on one or two accent nails for the most polished look.

Flakes and sparkle

Flakes Gel, 12 shadesMSRP $96.00

Chameleon Flakes EffectMSRP $398.00

Nail Art Glitter, Starlight CollectionMSRP from $7.95

Chrome Effect 04 GoldMSRP $15.50

Soak Off Gel - Super BlackMSRP from $9.00

Diamond Soak Off Gel No Wipe Top Coat 0.5ozMSRP $7.25

Prep and finish

Nail Prep PH BondMSRP from $8.25

Soak Off Gel - Base Coat 0.5ozMSRP $7.25

Diamond Soak Off Gel No Wipe Top Coat 0.5ozMSRP $7.25