Applying Gel Over Acrylic Nails: A Step-by-Step Guide

Question
Hi i was wondering when you do acrylic nails and you want to apply 1 top layer with gel do you file the acrylic and then put your layer of gel and cure, or do you need to apply affix or bonding gel then cure then put your layer of gel.
thanks katrina

Answer
Depends on the type of gel you are using. Usually, if you are applying a coat of gel over acrylics as a gel topcoat, you just apply the gel over the acrylic. Just make sure you don't buff the acrylic smooth or the gel will lift off because it needs that rough surface to grab onto. If you're using a gel that isn't designed to be used as a topcoat, you may need to apply the bonding gel first. Try it without the bonding gel and see if it works, if you have problems with it chipping or lifting, then you'll need the bonder.