Yes! Gelly semi-cured gel nail strips are designed to work on all nail types, including oily nails. If you have excess oil, proper prep is key—make sure to cleanse your nails with an alcohol-based wipe (one is included in your Gelly box) 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.

You don’t need a base coat—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 prep steps 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—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!

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 24mm in width
• Toenail strips: 32 gel strips, ranging from 6mm to 22mm in width

For a detailed breakdown of strip sizes, check out our sizing 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.

With a variety of sizes on each sheet, you’ll have plenty of options to customize your fit—whether you’re doing a manicure, pedicure, or both!

All gel nails—whether gel polish or gel strips—require UV curing to fully set the gel. When the gel is fully set, it hardens into a glossy and durable finish.

The great thing about semi-cured gel nail strips is that much of the work is already done for you. This means less mess, an easier application, and a shorter curing time compared to traditional gel manicures. Not only does that save you time, but it also minimizes UV exposure without compromising on results.

For best results, we recommend curing your nails under a UV lamp for 60–90 seconds per hand. If needed, you can spot-cure individual nails for a few extra seconds to ensure they’re fully set. To avoid overcuring—which can make gel nails brittle—stop once your nails feel firm and properly hardened.

Once cured, your nails are ready to go, but we recommend avoiding heavy use or excessive pressure for about 10–15 minutes to allow them to fully set and cool. Try to hold off on activities like washing dishes, using cleaning products, or rummaging through your bag for keys during this time to prevent unnecessary stress on the strips.

Compared to traditional gel polish—which requires multiple layers and longer curing times—semi-cured gel strips need far less downtime. Since they’re already partially cured, you don’t have to worry about smudging or tackiness, but giving them a little extra time ensures the best long-term wear.

A great hold starts with a great foundation. Gelly semi-cured gel nail strips are designed to adhere firmly, but how you prep and apply them can make all the difference in longevity.

A clean, smooth nail surface is key—gently exfoliating, cleansing with an alcohol-based wipe, and ensuring your nails are completely dry helps create the perfect base. Placement also matters; applying the strips just above the cuticle prevents lifting and helps them grow out naturally.

Once applied, pressing the strips down firmly and curing them fully under a UV lamp locks them into place. And for those looking for extra durability, a Gloss Top Coat can reinforce the edges and add an extra layer of protection.

Want to perfect your technique? We’ve put together step-by-step tips on application and gentle removal methods to help you get the most out of your Gelly wraps!

Our 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, and cure the strips fully under UV light.

While our gel strips are designed to be worn without a top coat, if your nails experience heavy daily use or strain, we recommend sealing them with our optional High Gloss UV Top Coat for extra protection and durability.

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!