Do your American nail tips come unstuck or bubble? Find out how to choose the right size, prepare your nails and secure the tips using LuluNails Expert Base Coat.
American Application: How to Apply Capsules Without Bubbles or Peeling? | LuluNails Belgium
Are your American nail tips peeling off or forming bubbles? Find out how to choose the right size, prepare the nail and secure the tip using LuluNails Expert Base Coat.
The American application is an extension techniqueextension technique that allows you to quickly create a manicure using pre-shaped full-cover tips that cover the natural nail.
However, to achieve a neat and long-lasting result, simply choosing a pretty-shaped tip is not enough.
Poor preparation, a tip that is too small, an incorrect amount of adhesive or an air bubble can cause:
lifting, poor hold, pressure on thenail, a misaligned tip or air infiltration.
With LuluNails, the American Tips can bebe applied using the LuluNails Expert Base Coat, in accordance with the protocol specified for this product.
In this guide, discover how to choose, position and secure your American tips correctly, as well as how to avoid the most common mistakes.
What is an American tip?
An American tip is a full-cover tip, also known as a full-cover tip, which covers a large portion of the natural nail.
It comes in a pre-shaped form.
Depending on the range, it may be available in different shapes and lengths:
- almond;
- square;
- oval;
- ballerina / coffin;
- stiletto;
- short;
- medium;
- long.
The technician therefore does not need to build the shape entirely from scratch, as with a mould.
The tip providesa large part of the length, shape and curve.
American application, Full Cover and Soft Gel Tips: what’s the difference?
In the world of nail care, several terms are used to refer to similar techniques:
American tips
Full Cover Tips
Soft Gel Tips
These terms can refer to full-coverage tip systems that largely cover the natural nail.
However, the exact procedure depends on the material of the tip and the adhesive used.
At LuluNails, you must follow the procedure specified for LuluNails American Tips and LuluNails Expert Base Coat.
What equipment is needed for a LuluNails AmericanLuluNails American application?
To carry out an application, you will need to prepare the following:
- LuluNails American Capsules;
- LuluNails Expert Base Coat for adhesion ;
- nail file ;
- buffer;
- suitable preparation products;
- Cleaner as per the protocol;
- Nail Prep or Primer where required by the system;
- compatible UV/LED lamp;
- Semi-Permanent Nail Polish;
- Top Coat;
- Nail art accessories depending on the chosen design.
The equipment must always be used in accordance with the protocol set out in the relevant reference.
LuluNails Expert Base Coat for securing American Capsules
When applying LuluNails American Capsules, use the LuluNails Expert Base Coat to secure them, in accordance withits protocol.
The Base Coat Expert helps to secure the full-cover tip to the prepared nail before curing it under a compatible UV/LED lamp.
The aim is to ensure even contact between:
the natural nail, the Base Coat Expert and the American-style nail tip.
The amount of Base Coat Expert must be sufficient to ensure adhesion, but not excessive, to avoid it running onto the cuticles or skin.
How do you choose the right size American nail tip?
Choosing the right size is essential.
The tip must fit the width of the natural nail properly without having to be forced on too tightly.
A tip that is too small may:
- put pressure on the nail;
- fail to cover the sides properly;
- lift up;
- result in poor adhesion.
Conversely, a tip that is too large will require too many adjustments.
How can you check?
Before applying the Base Coat Expert, place the tip onto the natural nail without any product.
Check:
the width
the sides
the curve
the axis
and the cuticle area.
The tip should follow the natural shape of the nail.
Why is the curvature of the tip important?
Two nails of the same width can have very different curvatures.
A client may have:
very flat nails
whereas another may have:
very domed nails.
A tip whose curve does not match the nail may leave too much space in certain areas.
This can make it more difficult to secure the tip.
You should therefore choose the tip based on:
width, length and curvature.
How do you prepare the nail before an American-style application?
A good hold begins even before the tip is attached.
1. Prepare the cuticles
Properly clear the natural nail plate.
The adhesive must not be applied directly to the skin.
2. Adjust the free edge
The natural nail must be prepared according to the protocol for the American manicure.
3. Mattify if the protocol requires it
Work delicately.
The aim is not to thin the natural nail excessively.
4. Remove all dust
After filing or buffing, clean the surface thoroughly.
Dust can compromise the bond between the nail and the bonding system.
5. Apply the necessary preparation products
Use Nail Prep, Primer or other products only when specified in your system’s protocol.
Cleaner, Nail Prep or Primer: what’s the difference?
Do you need to prepare the inside of the American-style nail tip?
It depends on the type of nail tip.
Some products may require the inner surface – the area intended to come into contact with the adhesive – to be prepared.
Others may be prepared differently.
Therefore, follow the instructions provided for the specific LuluNails product being used.
&Avoid automatically applying the same procedure to all nail tips on the market.
How do you attach an American-style nail tip using LuluNails Expert Base Coat?
This is the most important step.
&Step 1 – Choose the tip
Check one last time:
size width curvature axis.
Step 2 – Apply the LuluNails Expert Base Coat
Apply a measured amount of LuluNails Base Coat Expert in accordance with the application protocol.
There must be enough product to ensure even contact between the tip and the nail.
However, do not apply an excessive amount.
Step 3 – Gradually position the tip
Position the tip in a controlled manner.
Avoid placing it abruptly so that it lies completely flat.
Gradual positioning allows the product to spread out beneath the capsule and helps to minimise air bubbles.
Step 4 – Check for any overspill
Before curing, look carefully around the nail.
The Base Coat Expert must not spill over onto:
the cuticles
the sides
or the skin.
Remove any overspill before curing.
Step 5 – Check the alignment
Look at the finger from the front.
The nail tip must not curve to the right or left.
Also check the alignment from the side.
ÉStep 6 – Hold the cap in place
Hold the cap securely so that it does not move whilst being fixed in place.
ÉStep 7 – Cure
Cure using a compatible UV/LED lamp, observing the recommended curing time for the LuluNails Base Coat Expert.
How do you apply an American tip without bubbles?
An air bubbleis an area where the bonding product has not properly filled the space between the tip and the nail.
To avoid them:
Use enough Base Coat Expert
Using too little may leave areas without any product.
Do not apply too much
Applying too much may cause the product to spill onto the skin.
Position the tip gradually
The product must spread out under the tip as it is being positioned.
Keep the tip steady
If it moves before or during curing, an air pocket may form.
Check before curing
Examine the tip carefully before placing it under the lamp.
Why do I have a bubble under my American Tip?
There may be several causes:
incorrectly sized capsule
inappropriate curvature
insufficient amount of Base Coat Expert
poor distribution of the product
capsule applied too quickly
dust
movement of the tip
incorrect positioning angle.
A large air pocket should not simply be concealed under a semi-permanent top coat.
It is better to correct the application properly.
Why are my American nail tips coming away?
There can be several causes for them coming away.
Inadequate preparation
A poorly prepared surface can compromise adhesion.
Nail tip too small
A capsule that is too narrow can cause constant tension.
Incorrect curvature
Too much space between the nail and the capsule makes it harder to secure.
Air bubble
Part of the tip is not making proper contact with the Base Coat Expert.
Product on the cuticles
If the product overflows, this can cause the polish to lift.
Incorrect amount of Base Coat Expert
Too little can leave gaps.
Too much can cause spillage and make positioning difficult.
Incorrect positioning
A tilted or off-centre tip may be subject to greater stress.
Incorrect curing
Ensure you use a compatible lamp and follow the Base Coat Expert protocol.
Why does the American Nail Tip peel away near the cuticles?
If peeling starts near the base, check:
- preparation;
- dust;
- whether the product has come into contact with the skin;
- the amount of Base Coat Expert used;
- positioning;
- curvature;
- curing protocol.
The tip must not be pushed directly into the cuticles.
It must be positioned with carecare.
Why does the tip come away at the sides?
First, check the size.
A tip that is too narrow may exert lateral pressure.
A tip that is not centred correctly may also cover one side properlyside but not the other.
To choose the right one:
always look at the nail from above, from the front and from the side.
Why does my CapsAmerican nail tip hurt?
A correctly chosen nail tip should not need to be forced onto the nail.
If you immediately feel significant pressure, check the following in particular:
the width
and the curve.
A tip that is too small can put strain on the sides.
Do not force a tip on simply because you like its length or shape.
American tips on flat nails
Yes, an American-style application can be carried out on flatter nails, but you must choose a tip with the appropriate curvature.
A very rounded tip on a very flat nail can create too much of a gap.
Choosing the right product is therefore essential.
American tips on curved nails
The same principle applies.
An extremely flat tip may not fit a very curved nail properly.
Choose a shape whose curvature matches the natural nail as closely as possible.
How do you align an American nail tip correctly?
A tip may be securely attached but look incorrect if it is positioned at an angle.
To check:
first look at the general axis of the finger.
The nail tip should naturally extend this axis.
Then check:
the parallel lines
the tip
the cuticle area
the profile.
Carry out this check before the final curing.
Which American Capsule shape should you choose?
Almond
Very versatile.
It is particularly suitable for:
Nude Nails
Milky Nails
French
Baby Boomer
Bordeaux.
Square
Ideal for a more structured and modern look.
Ballerina / Coffin
An interesting shape for medium or long nails.
Stiletto
A more pointed and dramatic shape.
The length must always be consistent with the client’s everyday use.
Short or long American capsules?
A short or medium length may be easier to manage whenyou’re just starting out.
It reduces mechanical stress and generally makes the following easier:
positioning
aligning the axis
finishing.
Very long extensions require greater skill.
Can semi-permanent varnish be applied to American capsules?
Yes, after correctly securing and preparing the tip in accordance with the protocol.
You can then create a wide range of styles:
Nude
Red
Burgundy
Milky
Cat Eye
French
Chrome
Nail Art
Ombre Nails.
LuluNails Semi-Permanent Nail Varnishes
Can you create a Baby Boomer look on American tips?
Yes.
The tip already provides the shape and length.
You can then create your Baby Boomer gradient.
With the new LuluNails Pat Pat Gel, you can, for example, combine:
Blush Pink – Powder Pink
with:
Pure White – Pure White.
Thanks to the Pat Pat Gel’s built-in sponge, you can gradually build up the transition.
Pat Pat Gel – Ombré & Nail Art
Can Pat Pat Gel be used on American nail tips?
Yes, provided the surface and the products used are compatible.
Once the tip has been secured and prepared, Pat Pat Gel can be used to create:
- Baby Boomer;
- Pink Ombré;
- Purple Ombre;
- Blue Ombre;
- Aura Nails;
- Ombré French;
- Glitter Ombré.
American Capsules Pat Pat Gel.
Can-can you do a French manicure on American Capsules?
Yes.
You can create:
White French
Micro French
Red French manicure
Bordeaux French manicure
Chocolate French manicure
Sky Blue French manicure
Mint Green French manicure
Glitter French
or Ombré French.
The nail tip simply acts as a base for your design.
Can you create Aura Nails on American tips?
Yes.
With LuluNails Pat Pat Gel and its built-in sponge, you can concentrate the colour in the centre and then gradually fade it out.
For example:
Milky Cherry Pink
or:
Pure White Violet Purple.
This allows you to create a modern halo effect on the tip.
Can you use Builder Gel on an American/h3>
You need to distinguish between the techniques.
A full-cover American nail tip already has its shape and much of its structure in place.
A classic tip, on the other hand, is mainly used to extend the nail before carrying out the build.
Builder gel and the American tip do not, therefore, fulfil exactly the same function.
Any use of additional gel must always be in line with the chosen system.
American application or classic tips?
Traditional tips
The tip primarily extends the nail.
The structure must then be built up using a suitable builder gel.
American tips
The tip covers a much larger area of the nail and is already pre-shapedshape.
Application can therefore be quicker once the technique has been properly mastered.
American application or template?
Both techniques allow you to create extensions, but in different ways.
American method
This method involves working with a pre-made mould.
Template
This allows for much greater freedom in the design:
length
style
direction
shape.
The choice therefore depends on the desired result and the technique mastered by the professional.
American application or Acrygel?
With an American tip, the shape is already pre-formed.
With Acrygel / Polygel, the professional builds the extension and structure more extensively herself.
Acrygel therefore offers a different approach to the build.
It is not a question of determining which technique is universally better, but which one best suits the requirements of the application.
Why should you avoid any Base Coat Expert spilling onto the skin?
Before curing, always check that no uncured UV/LED product remains on the skin.
If you notice any product spilling onto the skin:
remove it before curing.
Do not deliberately cure the product on the cuticles or the side folds.
This rule remains important regardless of the system used.
Is a UV/LED lamp required for the Base Coat Expert?
The Base Coat Expert used to secure American Capsules must becured in accordance with its instructions using a compatible UV/LED lamp.
Follow the curing time specified for the product.
Do not arbitrarily reduce the curing time simply because your lamp has a higher wattage.
How long should the Base Coat Expert be cured for?
Use the curing time specified for the LuluNails Base Coat Expert and the compatible lamp being used.
Can nail glue be used instead of the Base Coat Expert?
For the American application methodLuluNails method described in this article, use the LuluNails Base Coat Expert, asthis is the product you’ve chosen for attaching your American Capsules.
LuluNails Strong Adhesive can still be used with the techniques and products for which it is intended
LuluNails AmericanLuluNails American Capsules LuluNails Expert Base Coat Compatible UV/LED lamp.
How do you remove American Capsules?
The removal method depends on the material of the tip and the system used.
Depending on the product code, removal may involve:
filing down the material
polishing
a sander, when used correctly
or a specific method designed for the system.
To be avoided at all costs
Do not pull or deliberately tear off the capsules.
You could remove surface layers of the natural nail.
American nail tips for beginners: is it easy?
Pre-formed nail tipssave time when shaping the nail.
However, they still require you to master:
- preparation;
- selecting the size;
- curvature;
- positioning;
- amount of Base Coat Expert;
- avoiding bubbles;
- alignment;
- curing;
- finishing;
- removal.
A quick application is therefore not one carried out without the proper technique.
The 8 most common mistakes with American tips
1. Choosing a tip that is too small
Never force a capsule that is too narrow.
2. Focusing only on the width
Also check the curvature.
3. Neglecting preparation
Dust and poor preparation can reduce the hold.
4. Applying too little Base Coat Expert
Some areas may not be adequately covered.
5. Applying too much Base Coat Expert
The product may spill over onto the cuticles.
6. Trapping an air bubble
Position the tip gradually.
7. Applying the tip at an angle
Alwaysalways check the alignment before curing.
8. Not following the curing protocol
Use the lamp and curing time specified for the systemsystem.
Quick reference table: problems and solutions to check
| Problem | Check |
|---|---|
| Nail tip lifts near the cuticles | Preparation, over-application, amount of Base Coat Expert |
| Nail tip is lifting at the sides | Size and curvature |
| Air bubble under the tip | Amount and positioning |
| The tip feels uncomfortable | Probably too small or the curve is unsuitable |
| The tip is crooked | Alignment and centring |
| Base Coat Expert runs over the edges | Excessive amount or too much pressure |
| Poor overall hold | Preparation, application, curing |
| One tip lasts less than the others | Size, positioning, preparation of the affected finger |
LuluNails American Tips, Belgium
Are you looking for American Tips in Belgium to create quick and modern extensions?
Discover the range of LuluNails American Capsules and create your application system using the LuluNails Expert Base Coat for bonding, a compatible UV/LED lamp and the products you need for your finish.
Complete your manicures with:
Semi-Permanent Polishes
Pat Pat Gel – Ombré & Nail Art
Top Coat
UV/LED Lamps
Cleaner
Nail Prep / Primer
Nail Art Brushes
and other LuluNails accessories.
LuluNails offers its nail products in Belgium, with delivery available in Belgium and across Europe.
FAQ – LuluNails American-Style Application
What is an American Nail Tip?
An American Nail Tip is a pre-formed full-cover tip that covers most of thenatural nail to create an extension.
What should I use to attach LuluNails American Capsules?
For the LuluNails system described here, use the LuluNails Base Coat Expert for attachment, in accordance with its instructions.
Does the Base Coat Expert need to be cured?
Yes, use a compatible UV/LED lamp and follow the exact instructions for the Base Coat Expert.
How can I avoid bubbles under the tip?
Use a controlled amountamount of Base Coat Expert and position the tip gradually to ensure the product is spread evenly.
Why are my American tips coming off?
Possible causes include poor preparation, an incorrectly sized tip, a bubble, spillage, an incorrect amount of Base Coat Expert, or a curing issue.
How do I choose the right size tip?
The tip should fit the nail properly from one side to the other without having to be forced on.
Is the curvature important?
Yes. A tip that is too domed or too flat in relation to the nail can make it difficult to attach.
Can an American-style application be done on short nails?
Yes, provided the tip and the system are suited to the shape of the nail.
Can semi-permanent nail varnish be applied to an American-style tip?
Yes, once the tip has been properly secured and prepared.
Can you create a ‘Baby Boomer’ look on American tips?
Yes. In particular, you can create an ombré effect using compatible products such as LuluNails Pat Pat Gel.
Can Pat Pat Gel be used on American tips?
Yes, provided the surface is properly prepared. You can create a Baby Boomer, Ombré, Aura Nails or soft French manicure.
Can you do a French manicure?
Yes. You can create a white, coloured, glittery or ombré French manicure.
Can Builder Gel be used on American tips?
It depends on the system. A full-cover tip already has a pre-and is not used in exactly the same way as a standard tip.
What is the difference between Americanand tips?
The classic tip mainly extends the free edge, whilst an American-style cap covers a much larger area of the nail.
What is the difference between the American method and the template method?
The American method uses a pre-made form, whilst the template method allows the technician to build the extension themselves.
Why does my tip hurt?
A tip that is too small or has the wrong curvature may put pressure on the nail.
Can the Base Coat Expert be cured if it has spilled onto the skin?
No. Remove any uncured product from the skin before curing.
Can the capsules be torn off to remove them?
No. Removal must be carried out correctly in accordance with the system to preserve the natural nail.
Are American Capsules suitable for beginners?
Yes, they can make shaping easier, but preparation, positioning, application and removal must be carried out correctly.
Where can I buy American Capsules and Base Coat Expert in Belgium?
The LuluNails American Capsules and the LuluNails Expert Base Coat for bonding are available from LuluNails Belgium, along with the products needed to complete the application.