When it comes to creating beautiful, long-lasting nails, choosing the right gel formula can make all the difference. Whether you’re working at a salon chair or perfecting your at-home routine, understanding how each Aprés gel product functions will help you deliver smoother applications, stronger nails, and better results. 

From prepping natural nails to locking in 3D art, here’s your complete breakdown of four must-have Aprés gels and their ideal uses: Soft Gel Builder, Diamond Gel, Base Gelcoat, and Extend Gel Signature.

 

Soft Gel Builder

Your go-to for overlays, fills, and natural strength

What it is:

A 2-in-1 soak-off formula that acts as both a base and a builder gel in one step.

 

Texture:

Medium-to-thick viscosity with self-leveling properties for effortless application and a smooth finish.

 

Top Features:

• HEMA-free

• Cruelty-free & vegan

• Soak-off removal

• Strengthens and protects natural nails

 

Best For:

 

• Overlays on natural nails

• Fills on Gel-X tips

• Clients who want strength without bulk

• A smooth, durable base before color application

 

Pro Tip:

Soft Gel Builder offers the flexibility of a soft gel with the strength of a builder. It’s perfect for clients prone to nail breakage or lifting, without the commitment of hard gel removal. 

 

Diamond Gel

For securing crystals, charms, and bold nail art

What it is:

An extremely thick, high-hold gel designed specifically for heavy-duty embellishments.

 

Texture:

Ultra-thick viscosity that holds shape without running. 

 

Top Features:

• Long-wear hold

• Keeps 3D art, charms, and crystals in place

• Ideal for statement sets and editorial looks

 

Best For:

• Nail art that defies gravity

• Long-term wear of crystals, studs, and appliqués

• Use in combination with Ionic Gel for maximum hold

 

Pro Tip:

When working with bulky or curved embellishments, use Diamond Gel to anchor the base and Ionic Gel to seal around the edges for extra security and shine. 

 

Base Gelcoat

The foundation for flawless color application

What it is:

A soft gel base that preps and protects the natural nail.

 

Texture:

Thin and smooth for an even base layer.

 

Top Features:

• Soak-off

• Smooths ridges and imperfections

• Improves polish adhesion

• Essential for Gel Couleur or gel polish manicures

 

Best For:

• Natural nail clients

• Base layer for gel polish or Gel Couleur

• Enhancing the longevity of manicures

 

Pro Tip:

Apply a thin, even layer of Base Gelcoat to create a flawless canvas. Cure fully before layering color for better wear and fewer chips.

 

Extend Gel Signature

The heart of the Gel-X® System

What it is:

A soft gel adhesive designed to bond Gel-X® Tips to the natural nail.

 

Texture:

Soft and flexible with strong adhesion and easy soak-off removal.

 

Top Features:

• Exclusive to the Gel-X® System

• Soak-off formula

• Delivers strength and comfort

• Flexible yet durable hold

 

Best For:

• Attaching Gel-X® extensions

• Foundation for sculpted, long-lasting extensions

• Nail techs who value speed and structure 

 

Pro Tip:

Extend Gel Signature is not just glue; it’s a foundational gel that moves with the nail, making extensions feel more natural and last longer. 

 

Which Gel Should You Use?

NAIL GOAL	BEST GEL TO USE
Overlays & fills	Soft Gel Builder
Attaching Gel-X® Tips	Extend Gel Signature
Base layer before color	Base Gelcoat
Securing charms/crystals	Diamond Gel
Strength without bulk	Soft Gel Builder
Prepping natural nails	Base Gelcoat
Nail extensions with flexibility	Extend Gel Signature
Editorial or glam nail art	Diamond Gel

 

Whether you’re perfecting natural nails, adding tips, or going bold with crystals, each Aprés gel brings a specific strength to your nail services. Knowing which formula to use and when helps you tailor every set to your client’s needs, ensuring better results, happier clients, and easier application. 

Read to stock up? Build your kit with these Aprés essentials and transform the way you work with gel.