Gel X: Unexpected Game Changer in the Industry

Camille Chou
2026-01-24T15:44:29+01:00

Gel X is a soft gel extension system with pre-made gel nail tips, it can be cured under UV / LED lamp by using gel adhesive, it can also be soaked off in acetone.

Más

Gel X nails have become one of the most popular nail enhancement options all over the world, the name with x makes them sound like some sort of technology nails, and it does have advantages for the new system compared to traditional methods. So what exactly are gel x nails? This article will guide you through what they are, how they compare to other types, how long they last, costs, safety, and more.

What is Gel X

It's still a type of soft gel nail extension. However, as a lot of nail enthusiasts feel exquisite nail art requires professional technicians and they don't how to paint gel nails at home, Gel X nails solved the problem by using pre-made, flexible gel tips (full-coverage extension) that can be easily glued to your natural nails (with a special gel adhesive), and cured under a UV or LED lamp.

The original Gel-X system uses soft gel material that's thin, bendy, and feels more like real nails.

Unlike regular gel polish (just a coating), it adds length and shape.

Key benefits of gel x: natural appearance, lightweight, flexible, and less damaging when applied correctly.

Gel X meaning In short: Gel X = pre-shaped soft gel tips + gel glue + lamp curing = beautiful, long-lasting extensions.

Benefits of Gel X

Safer and Healthier Choice

Is gel x bad for your nails? When applied correctly, it is relatively safe and causes minimal damage since it skips heavy buffing process. Also, its not made of complex chemical materials so the product is actually good for all ages of consumers, but we still need to pay attention during the curing / removing process, you need to learn to master the correct approach to avoid unnecessary damage.

Individual Customization

Unlike traditional acrylics that require much filing, mixing, and curing processes, Gel X manicures take far less time to complete, making them perfect for busy people who don’t want to spend hours in a chair. They’re also ideal for at-home nail enthusiasts: the application process is more straightforward than acrylics, with fewer tools and less effort, so you can achieve salon-worthy and customized results on your own at home.

If you know how to do gel nails at home, you can easily apply all different styles of gel x nail tips, and that's what we are talking about: you can switch your style anytime for any shape / color / length! you can have short gel x nails or long gel x nails, almond nail tips or coffin nail tips, brown and pink nails or black and white tip nails. And even you don't want to do your gel manicure at home, it's also way more convenient for you to do so in a gel manicure at store since it quires less time and effort from the nail technician.

Longevity and Cost Effective

Gel X nails are perfect for anyone who hates frequent manicure touch-ups. They deliver incredible lifespan, staying chip-free and glossy for 3–4 weeks with zero lifting. Best of all, they’re super convenient—application is quick, removal is gentle on natural nails, and you don’t need endless salon visits to keep them looking perfect. A useful tip to maximize their lifespan is to avoid prolonged exposure to hot water or household chores.

As for the cost, salon prices for a full set of Gel X nails typically range from $50–100 depending on the location and store, while at-home Gel X kits are a more budget-friendly alternative for DIY enthusiasts.

Gel X vs Acrylic

If you are looking for comfort, nail health, and convenience, Gel X nails are softer and more natural, the application process is also quicker and cleaner with no strong odor, it can be cured under a UV / LED lamp and be removed by soaking, which is gentler on the nails compared to the removal process for acrylics

But if you are looking individual expression and dramatic shapes, acrylic nails provide you with the extra length you need for sculpture. On the long run, acrylics are also more cost effective, because acrylic nails can be refilled to extend their lifespan to last longer, and it's more durable for those who may use their hands frequently,

Does gel x last longer than acrylic? If both are maintained with care, normally acrylics may last longer. However, let's dive deeper.

Gel X Nails vs. Traditional Gel Manicure

Here's how it's compared with other popular alternatives:

Feature | Gel X (Soft Gel Extensions) | Traditional Gel Manicure / Gel Polish | Acrylic Nails | Builder Gel / Hard Gel
What it is | Pre-made soft gel tips glued on | Liquid gel painted directly on natural nail | Powder + liquid sculpted on nail | Thick gel built up on natural nail
Look & Feel | Very natural, lightweight, flexible | Shiny coating, no added length | Hard, can feel bulky | Strong but flexible, good for natural strength
Durability | 2–4 weeks (often 3+) | 2–3 weeks | 3–6 weeks (with fills) | 3–5 weeks
Application | Fast (30–90 min), minimal filing | Quick paint & cure | Longer, requires sculpting & filing | Layered building, curing between layers
Removal | Soak off in acetone (10–20 min) | Soak off | File or drill off (can damage nails) | File or soak (harder than soft gel)
Nail Health | Gentler, less buffing needed | Very gentle | Can be harsher if not done right | Promotes growth, less toxic smell
Best For | Natural-looking length, quick sets | Color & shine only | Maximum strength & custom shapes | Strengthening weak nails, overlays

PS: exact durability can vary by brand, user lifestyle, or technician skill, and some builder gels are fully soak-off while others require more filing

How to do Gel X Nails

Gel X nail extensions are a game-changer for anyone who wants to get gel nails at home, because it makes gel manicure at home so much easier, and if you already have the at-home gel manicure kits, You have already succeeded 99%.

Materials and Tools Needed

What You'll Need

Gel X tips (Apres or compatible brand, various sizes/shapes)

Gel adhesive / Extend Gel (Apres recommended)

UV/LED lamp (36W+)

Nail file (180 grit), buffer, cuticle pusher

Alcohol wipes or dehydrator

pH bonder / primer (optional but helps)

Base/top gel polish, colored gel (for design)

Cuticle oil (for aftercare)

How to Apply Gel X Nails (Step-by-Step)

1. Prep your nails

Wash your hands.

Push back cuticles gently.

Trim/file natural nails short and even.

Lightly buff the surface (remove shine, don't thin nails).

Wipe with alcohol to remove oils.

2. Size the tips

Match each tip to your nail (should cover fully without gaps).

Trim/file if needed for perfect fit.

3. Apply adhesive

Apply a thin layer of Extend Gel or glue to the inside of the tip (focus near cuticle).

Press firmly onto your natural nail, pushing out air bubbles from cuticle to tip.

Hold 10–30 seconds.

4. Cure

Flash cure (quick 10–30 sec cure) each nail under lamp to set.

Once all on, full cure 60 seconds per hand.

5. Shape & finish

File edges/surface for smooth blend.

Apply base gel, color gel (cure between layers), top coat.

Final full cure.

6. Aftercare

Apply cuticle oil daily.

Avoid water/chemicals for 2 hours post-application.

Time: 45–90 minutes once you're practiced.

How to Remove Gel X Nails

1. Best method (soak-off):

File off top coat/color gently.

Soak cotton pads in 100% acetone.

Wrap each nail in foil (or use special nail clips to hold the cotton).

Soak 10–20 minutes.

Gently slide off softened tips.

Buff residue, moisturize nails.

2. No-acetone option: Soak in warm soapy water + oil, then file slowly (takes longer, gentler).

Never force or pry — it damages natural nails.

How to Remove Gel X Nails at Home

File away the coat first as the outside layer can block the acetone from getting into the glue adhesive, wrap your nails in cotton pads, let the nails soak for 10-20 minutes, then gently push off whatever can be removed easily. Use the stick or the file to get the rest of the fake nails removed. Repeat until everything is removed and be careful with your own nail.

Your nails will be soft after being soaked, so be really careful with your own nail, it's easy to accidentally scrape off a piece of your own nails during the process. Your nails will get hard gradually in the next 24 hours, so be gentle to your nails during this period.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do Gel X nails last?

2–4 weeks (often 3+).

Does gel x last longer than acrylic?

With proper care, it can last proximately 4 weeks. However, acrylic can be refilled to last longer.

Does Gel X damage your nails? Is gel x bad for your nails?

Not at all! It's easy to apply and to remove, requires less time and effort.

How to get off Gel X nails? How to soak off gel x nails?

It can be easily soak off in acetone (10–20 min).

Is Gel X better than acrylic?

Yes, for aesthetic, health and natural feel.

Is gel x the same as builder gel?

No, gel x is made of soft gel.