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How to Apply Stick-On Gel Nails for a Perfect Finish | Glaize

9 September 2025

If you’re dreaming of a flawless, salon-quality manicure without the salon prices (or hassle), stick-on gel nails are your new best friend. Learning how to apply gel nail stickers at home is easier than you might think. With the right prep and technique, your mani can last for up to two weeks and look amazing the whole time.

Whether you’re new to the world of gel nail stickers or looking for tips to perfect your application, this guide will walk you through every step for a flawless Glaize finish 💅

 

What Are Stick-On Gel Nails?

Stick-on gel nails, also known as gel nail stickers or nail wraps are flexible, ready-to-use gel nail sheets that adhere directly to your natural nails. They combine the durability and shine of a salon gel manicure with the ease and speed of DIY application at home. No UV lamp, no messy polish, and no dry time needed.

 

How to Apply Gel Nail Stickers: Step-by-Step Guide

 

1. Prep Is Everything

Before applying your Glaize gel nail stickers, prepping your nails properly is essential. Here's how to get started:

  • Wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Avoid using any lotions or oils.

  • Push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher or orange stick.

  • (Optional) Gently buff your nails to create a smooth surface and remove shine.

  • File your nails to your preferred shape.

  • Use the prep pad and prep juice (included in your starter kit) to clean the nail surface and remove any oils. This helps the gel adhere better.

  • If you're removing old polish, make sure to use oil-free acetone or nail polish remover, any oily residue can weaken the adhesive.

 

2. Apply the Gel Nail Stickers

  • Begin with your little finger and work your way toward your thumb.  

  • Peel the gel from the sheet. Bending the sheet slightly can help release it. 

  • Stick the gel onto your nail, aligning it just above the cuticle. Leave a small gap between your cuticle and the sticker.

  • Press down firmly, smoothing the gel over the nail from the centre outward to avoid bubbles or wrinkles. Don't be afraid to apply a bit of pressure!

 

3. Trim and Shape the Gels

  • Flip your hand and use nail clippers to trim the majority of the excess gel.

  • Then, file in a downward motion at a 90-degree angle to remove the remaining excess.

  • Avoid filing left to right, as this can tear the gel and result in some dust from the filing to be trapped around the gel tips (which could lead to your gels lifting pre-maturely).

  • For shorter nails, clipping alone may be easier.

 

Watch our video guide

 

Why Choose Glaize Stick-On Gels?

At Glaize, we’ve designed our gel stickers to be:

  • Super easy to apply

  • Long-lasting (up to 14 days)

  • No drying time, no UV lamp, and no mess

  • Easy to remove with no nail damage

  • Ethically made in our very own factory in the UK

 

Our starter kits include everything you need for application - just stick on, press down, trim off and you're done!

Now that you know exactly how to apply stick-on nails like a pro, it’s time to get your hands (and toes) on a set of Glaize gels and enjoy salon-quality manicure & pedicure gels at home. With a bit of prep and a few minutes of your time, you'll be flaunting a flawless, glossy finish that looks like you just stepped out of the nail salon.

Ready to give your nails the glow-up they deserve? Discover the Glaize selection today!