Embedding Rhinestones in Gel Manicures for Durability

The popularity of rhinestone embellished manicures is ever increasing, with so many different rhinestone options available. From flatback rhinestones and dainty pearls, to chunky 3D crystals and rhinestone shapes, there is so much sparkle you can add to your gel nail design. By far the most popular rhinestones on the market for nail art are Swarovski, which are an expensive but luxury brand, and Preciosa – an excellent quality and lower costing brand.

The most commonly used rhinestones for nail art and gel manicures are flatback non hotfix rhinestones, in sizes SS3 (1.5mm) up to SS10 (3mm). These sizes are ideal for decorating fingernails, as the small surface area means they sit flush to the nail and are less likely to ping off.

Whereas some larger nail art embellishments such as pointy back 3D crystals and nail charms are more often used for competition nails, or decorative one-off occasions like weddings. This is because the larger the embellishment, the more likely it is to get knocked off the nail – no matter how securely it has been attached.

As long as you use the correct nail glue and tools for attachment, flatback rhinestones make the perfect decorative and long lasting embellishment for your gel manicure. In this article we're going to focus on tips and techniques for attaching rhinestones to gel nails for durability.

Choosing the Right Rhinestones for Gel Manicures

The most important thing when thinking about rhinestone durability, is the size you are using. As discussed above, small sizes such as SS3 to SS10 will last a lot longer on a gel nail if attached correctly. If you are unsure about sizes, take a look at our guide to rhinestone sizes for more details. Another thing to consider is the shape you wish to use, by far the most common nail gem is the classic round rhinestone. These are widely available in many different colours and sizes so your options are endless. Many nail artists use round rhinestones as the base of the design, while also incorporating different shapes to enhance it. Crystal shapes are a great way to make your nail art stand out and add something a little different to your manicure.

Once you are familiar with the shapes and sizes available for nail art, it's time to consider rhinestone colours. Here are some things to think about before choosing your perfect colour:

What is the colour of your gel polish, do you want the rhinestones to match it, or contrast it?
Do you want to go for a classic diamante clear crystal for a luxury feel, or do you want over the top sparkles and bling with AB crystals? Find out more about the difference between Clear and AB.
Is your manicure themed?
Do you want your manicure to feature multiple colours, and will the colours compliment each other, or will they be bold and different?
Do you like to work with bright rainbow colours or do you prefer neutral, subtle shades?

It can be a little overwhelming when trying to choose the perfect rhinestone colour for your manicure, but with a little bit of research on rhinestone colours and effects, the job of finding the right colour will become so much fun, rather than an impossible task.

Preparing Your Gel Manicure Canvas

To ensure the rhinestones are properly secured to your manicure, you need to make sure you have prepared your gel nail correctly. It is so important to have well prepared nails before doing any kind of work on them, otherwise the gel polish won't adhere properly and will start to peel early. Whether you're a trained nail technician, or a beginner just starting out, it is important to know the basics of achieving the perfect gel manicure base:

Before you start, make sure your nails are clean and dry.
Firstly, start by filing and shaping your nail to the length and shape of your choice. Roughen up the surface of the nail slightly with your file, this allows the gel to adhere properly.
Next, apply one coat of base gel and cure in a UV/LED lamp.
Then apply two coats of your desired gel polish, curing in between each coat.

Usually, if you are doing a gel manicure without embellishments, the next step would be to apply the top coat. But for attaching rhinestones, this is the stage to do it.

Techniques for Embedding Rhinestones

Let's run through how to actually embed rhinestones to gel nails. For most creative projects that require attaching rhinestones, there are two different methods of application; Hotfix and Non Hotfix. Hotfix, sometimes known as 'iron-on' is a method that requires heat from an iron to activate the glue on the back of a Hotfix crystal. Obviously, you can't use an iron to apply crystals to fingernails so the Non Hotfix method is the way to go for nail art. Non Hotfix crystals require glue to attach them to nails, we recommend Crystal Fix nail glue which is a clear, gel like consistency that can be cured to firmly set the crystals into place.

Once you have cured the second coat of gel polish, it is time to start adding rhinestones. Gently squeeze a tiny amount of nail glue onto the nail in the desired place. The Crystal Fix glue has a fine tip so you can apply small amounts without any spillage or seeping.
If you are applying individual rhinestones, you can add the glue in small dots over the nail. If you want to create a line or pattern, use a detailer brush or even a cocktail stick to spread out the glue into the required position.
Using a rhinestone pick up tool, pick up your crystals one by one and place them onto the glue. Press down gently so they are held in place.
Once you have finished attaching rhinestones to that nail and are happy with the positioning, cure it for the recommended time.

Sealing the Deal: Top Coat and Cure

Now your rhinestone layer is complete, the next step to ensure durability is adding the top coat. Every manicure should be finished with a good quality top coat to ensure the polish stays clean and fresh. It also stops chips and scratches to the surface of the nail, as is vital for keeping the rhinestones in place for longer.

Apply the top coat to the nail but DO NOT apply it over the top of the rhinestones, this will dull their shine and look messy.
Instead, push the brush up to the edges of the rhinestones, sealing them in place.
Cure for the recommended time.

Creating Intricate Designs

For an eye catching rhinestone manicure, it is all about the detail and design. Trends in nail art are always changing and it can be difficult to keep up. So often, the more classic designs work best for nail art, but for special occasions or seasonal events it's great to get creative and have fun with your design. Looking at the work of nail artists and nail influencers such as Scarlett Senter and Natalie Mugridge is a great way to keep up with the latest trend as well as getting ideas and inspiration.

If you want to stick to simple and classic rhinestone manicures, there are several application styles and designs to choose from, including ombre, scattered, rainfall etc. Once you learn how to make these basic patterns, you can experiment with incorporating different colours and sizes.

A huge trend we're seeing more of is combining different types of rhinestone embellishment to create a feature or statement nail. This is called the 'rockery effect' and is a great way of adding glitz and glamour to your manicure.

Maintenance Tips for Rhinestone-Embedded Gel Manicures

It is imperative that you look after your nails, especially if they are embedded with rhinestones. So here are a few tips on how to keep them well maintained and preserve the sparkle of the crystals:

Wear gloves when doing any kind of manual work
Wear washing up gloves to avoid grease or muck getting stuck in between the crystals
Try to avoid knocking or catching them on hard surfaces – this is how rhinestones tend to ping off.
Every so often gently wipe over the top of the rhinestones with a damp fabric cloth to keep their sparkle.
If you notice a rhinestone becoming loose, simple remove it with a sharp nail tool and replace it using the same glue and method. And remember to cure.

Showcasing Durability: Extended Wear Time

The lifespan of rhinestone manicures really depends on your day to day activities and the type of rhinestones you have chosen to use. As previously discussed, smaller sizes tend to last longer as they stick out less and are unlikely to get caught on anything. Whereas larger rhinestones or other chunky embellishments have a tendency to ping off quicker. Generally, if you have used the recommended glue, and follow the care tips above, rhinestone manicure should last up to two weeks.

Conclusion

Hopefully now you feel confident in attaching rhinestones to nails, let's recap the tips and techniques for a secure and durable rhinestone manicure:

Research nail art rhinestones and make sure you are happy with your chosen colours and sizes.
Ensure your nails are well prepared
Always use the recommended glue and tools for the job
Spend a bit of time looking at current nail trends and influencers to gain fresh ideas and inspiration.
Take your time and remember to have fun with it!

If you're looking for new ideas for rhinestone nail art, we recommend following nail artists such as Natalie Mugridge, Lisa Johnston and Scarlett Senter. Or check out our collection of nail art products, which is always being updated with new crystal mixes.