Kara's Master List!
I love having one place to point you guys to for all of my favorite things, so that’s what this post is going to be: an updated *master list* of all of the products I use most often and that I always recommend!! Ok let’s get right into it :)
If you ever need to reference these items again, I put everything in a new spreadsheet that will be linked in my bio! I keep these updated with my favorites as they evolve :)
Education:
This is obviously the most important part of doing your nails! And if you didn’t know, I have a few different tutorial courses on my website that break down my entire process step by step in real time so that you aren’t left with any questions! These are perfect for any one who is interested in doing their own nails or client’s nails. Each course link has a ton of information on what the videos contain, so make sure to click through to learn more or leave a comment if you have questions!
As a newsletter subscriber, if you haven’t gotten a course yet, you can use code LOVELETTER10 for 10% off your first one!
Nail Prep Tools:
Nail Files (I always use 180/240 for both shaping and surface prep!)
Silicon Tools (These are great for cleaning up pooled gel so you don’t have to touch it, and they’re very pointy and precise!)
Lint Free Wipes (these are essential because cotton balls leave too much fuzz!)
90% Isopropyl Alcohol (I never recommend using acetone during gel manicures (unless you’re soaking off your gels) because it can actually cause adhesion issues since it’s a solvent. Isopropyl alcohol will dehydrate and cleanse perfectly instead!)
Dust Collector (I used to think these were optional but they are actually really important at capturing all of the dust from gel removal! It can be very harmful to breathe in all of the dust particles. I also wear a mask and glasses whenever I remove my gel now too!)
Gel Lamps:
These lamps work well with the gel I like to use and recommend! Of course other lamps will work, but I always recommend making sure that your lamp has a wavelength of 365-405 nanometers to cure the gel below properly. It’s also important to replace your lamp often. The timing totally depends on the quality and usage, so it’s impossible to put a number on it. What I recommend looking for are signs of uncured gel (like denting, wrinkling, shrinking), or repeated lifting, that hasn’t happened often in the past. Or if there is a general decline in the quality of your manicures, it’s probably a good idea to upgrade!
Kokoist Le Blanc Lamp (I use this lamp pretty much every time I do my nails and I LOVE it! This lamp is an investment, but it is amazing quality and will likely last longer (aka years longer) than the other options.
Kokoist Hybrid Infinity Lamp (another great option from Kokoist! This one is not cordless like the above)
Amazon Lamp (similar specs to the above lamp, probably won’t have as long as a life)
Base Gel:
Kokoist Megastick Base (the best for ensuring adhesion!!!)
Builder Gel:
Kokoist Platinum Filler Base (Clear builder and base gel in one. HEMA Free, Formulated with antibacterial ingredients to help your nails stay healthy while doing fills)
Nail Thoughts Tinted Builder Base Gels (3-in-1 base gel, builder gel & color gel! There are sooo many colors. Check out my spreadsheet for my favorites + links to photos!)
Color Gel:
Kokoist & Nail Thoughts Favorites (broken out by color!)
Sweetie Nail Supply Favorites (broken out by color!)
Top Gel:
Kokoist Ultra Glossy Non Wipe Top Coat (the BEST of the best)
Popular Blog Posts:
Kokoist Master Blog Post (so many photos & a breakdown of their products!)
Gel Allergies 101 (what they are & how to prevent them)
My Exact Manicure Routine Explained
Make sure to check out my Master List Spreadsheet for even more of my favorites + my website and blog for even more info!!! If you have any specific questions, be sure to leave a comment :)
Ok bye!!