Start by removing any old polish and shaping your nails as desired. Lightly buff the nail surface to remove shine, then cleanse thoroughly with an alcohol-based wipe or non-acetone cleanser to eliminate oils and debris. For best results, consider a gentle exfoliation of the skin around your nails to remove dead skin cells and create a smoother application area. Finally, push back your cuticles to help prevent lifting and achieve a seamless finish.

Yes! Our semi-cured gel nail strips are designed to work on all nail types, including oily nails. If you have excess oil, thorough cleaning is key—make sure to cleanse your nails with an alcohol-based wipe or non-acetone cleanser to remove any residue. For extra grip, you can also use a nail dehydrator before application. Lightly buffing the nail surface and ensuring your nails are completely dry will further help the strips adhere securely.

Neither! Unlike traditional gel nail polish, Gelly’s semi-cured gel nail strips are designed to provide a durable, salon-quality finish without the need for a base or top coat.

However, in response to requests from customers who love an extra layer of shine, we’ve introduced our Gloss Top Coat range. While optional, applying our top coat after curing can enhance the finish and add extra protection for extended wear.

Each Gelly premium gel nail strip includes a variety of sizes to fit different nail shapes. Our fingernail strips range from 9mm to 17mm in width, while our toenail strips range from 6mm to 19mm in width, ensuring full, flawless coverage. For a detailed breakdown of strip sizes, check out our sizing guide.

For the best fit, choose a strip that matches your nail width without overlapping onto the skin or cuticle. If you're between sizes, opt for the slightly smaller one to ensure a seamless look and proper adhesion. Any excess length can simply be trimmed and filed down after application for a perfect, natural finish.

UV curing is essential because it fully sets the gel, ensuring a durable, chip-resistant finish. We recommend curing your nails for 30-60 seconds per hand under a UV lamp. If needed, you can spot cure individual nails for a few extra seconds to ensure they’re fully set. To avoid overcuring (which may make the gel strips brittle), stop curing once your nails feel hard enough.

It’s best to allow your nails to fully cure and cool before heavy use—waiting about 10-15 minutes is advisable.

A secure, long-lasting wear starts with proper nail preparation. Light exfoliation helps create a smooth surface, while thorough cleaning, buffing, and drying improve adhesion.

Ensuring the semi-cured gel nail strips are placed slightly above the cuticle prevents lifting, enhances durability, and provides a natural look. Accurate sizing, firm application, complete UV curing, and optional sealing with our glossy top coat all contribute to a flawless, long-lasting finish.

Gelly’s semi-cured gel nail strips are designed to last up to 14 days with proper application and care. Their durability depends on factors like nail preparation, daily activities, and exposure to water or oils. For the longest wear, ensure a clean, dry nail surface before application, cure the strips fully under UV light, and seal with our optional glossy top coat.

Not at all! Our semi-cured gel nail strips are designed to be gentle on your nails. As long as you prep and remove them with care, your natural nails will stay healthy and strong. No harsh chemicals or drilling—just a beautiful manicure that peels off easily when you're ready for a change.

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