FAQ : Applying Gel Nail Strips

Yes, Gelly strips are made to work on all nail types, including oily nails. Clean your nails with the alcohol wipe in your Gelly box or a non-acetone cleanser to remove any residue.

For very oily nails, use a nail dehydrator, lightly buff the surface, and make sure your nails are completely dry before applying.

Gelly semi-cured gel nail strips come in a variety of sizes to ensure a seamless, full-coverage fit for different nail shapes.

Each sheet includes multiple strips in a range of widths, giving you the flexibility to find the perfect match for your nails.

• Fingernail strips: 20 gel strips, ranging from 9mm to 17mm in width
• Toenail strips: 32 gel strips, ranging from 6mm to 19mm in width

For a detailed breakdown of strip sizes, check out our gel nail strip size guide.

To get the best fit, choose a strip that matches your nail width without overlapping onto the skin or cuticle. If you’re between sizes, opting for a slightly smaller strip ensures a seamless look and strong adhesion.

Any excess length can be trimmed and filed after application for a natural, polished finish.

You don’t need a base coat, since Gelly semi-cured gel nail strips are designed to adhere securely to your natural nails without any extra layers underneath. In fact, using one may actually interfere with adhesion. Just follow our application guide for the best results, and you’re good to go.

As for top coats, our semi-cured gel strips are made to be glossy, durable and long-lasting on their own. However, if your hands do a lot, think constant typing, frequent handwashing, or daily wear, our Gloss Top Coat can help reinforce the edges and provide extra protection.

It’s also a must if you’re adding Nail Art Stickers or other embellishments, as it helps seal everything in place for a polished finish.

And if you’re one of those people who believes there’s no such thing as too much gloss, we say let it shine!

Since Gelly strips are already semi-cured, you only need to UV cure them for 60 to 90 seconds per hand, just enough to fully set the gel. If a nail still feels soft, cure it a few seconds longer. Stop once they feel firm to avoid overcuring, which can make them brittle.

Right after curing is fine, but wait 10 to 15 minutes before heavy use. Avoid things like washing dishes, cleaning, or digging through bags. This helps prevent lifting and ensures the best wear. Gelly strips are already semi-cured, so they won’t smudge, but that short wait makes a big difference.

No, Gelly semi-cured gel nail strips are gentle on your nails and won’t cause damage when applied and removed correctly.

Since they don’t require harsh chemicals or drilling, your natural nails stay healthy and strong. The key to keeping them in great condition lies in proper prep, application, and removal - all of which we cover in our dedicated, easy-to-follow application guide, and removal guide.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out or e-mail us at hello@gelly.co.za. We’re happy to help!

Yes. Just make sure to seal them in their original black UV protection pouch and store them in a cool, dark place. Exposure to light can cause them to start curing before you're ready to use them. When stored correctly, your gel nail strips can stay fresh for up to 12 months.