Updated by Alyssa Bueno on April 14, 2025
So, you're probably here because you find nail foil art pretty amazing–we agree with you! Want to recreate the gold foil nails you saw on social media but don't know how to use nail foil transfer on gel nails? Don't worry. We're here to help you out!
It's common for nail techs to struggle with transfer foil nail art, especially if they're new. We're here to help you master using transfer foil for nails and create unique nail foil art that will make your clients fall head over heels for you!
What is Nail Transfer Foil?
Nail transfer foils come in various designs, from Louis Vuitton-inspired to floral ones; they're shiny sheets that are holographic and made of foil.
The primary purpose of nail transfer foils is for nail techs or nail foil art enthusiasts to lay them over a nail. Once there's a gel color or base color, the transfer foil designs will stick to the nails once you peel the transfer foil off. iGel Beauty has over 90 different patterns and colors of nail transfer foil that iGel Beauties can collect and enjoy!
These nail transfer foils come in rolls and are not pre-cut; therefore, you can cut them off depending on your preference. You can use the nail transfer foil on gel nails and every nail art, such as DIY press-on or acrylic; make sure the foils are dry whenever you use them. The beauty of transfer foil for nails is that it is stress-free to use. You can store them safely on your nail desk and use them in the future.
Materials Needed:
• Transfer Foil sheets
• LB Foil Transfer Gel
• Base Coat
• Gel Polish (optional)
• Top Coat
• UV/LED Lamp
• Tweezers or Silicone Applicator
• Scissors
How to Apply Nail Foil Using LB Foil Transfer Gel
Step 1: Prep Nails
- Clean and shape your nails.
- Push back cuticles and lightly buff the nail surface.
- Wipe nails with alcohol or cleanser to remove dust and oils.
Step 2: Apply Base Coat & Gel Polish Color (optional)
- Apply a thin layer of iGel Beauty Gel Base Coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
- (Optional) Apply gel polish as your base color and cure under the lamp. Repeat for a second coat if needed.
Step 3: Apply LB Foil Transfer Gel
- Apply a thin, even layer of LB Foil Transfer Gel glue over the entire nail.
- Cure under a UV/LED lamp for 30s
- The surface will be tacky after curing, which is perfect for foil application!
Step 4: Apply The Nail Foil
- Cut a small piece of nail foil slightly larger than the nail.
- Place the foil design side up onto the tacky surface.
- Use a silicone applicator or finger to press firmly, smoothing out air bubbles.
- Gently peel off the foil, leaving the design on the nail.
Step 5: Seal With Top Coat
- Apply the iGel Beauty No Cleanse Top Coat to protect the design.
- Cure under the UV/LED lamp for 30-60 seconds.
- Wipe the nail with alcohol if needed to remove any sticky residue.
Pro Tips for Best Results:
• Ensure the foil glue layer is thin and even
• Press firmly and evenly when applying the foil to avoid missing spots.
• If the foil doesn’t transfer fully, reapply LB Foil Transfer Gel and try again.
• Use iGel No Cleanse Top Coat for a smooth, long-lasting finish.
How To Remove The Nail Transfer Foil
Step 1:
In a small bowl, place acetone and soak your nails for 10-15 minutes to lessen the adhesion of the nail transfer foil on your nails. Please resist the temptation of picking the foil off your nails since it can damage your nails. Repeat the process of soaking until it's completely removable.
Step 2:
Use a cotton bud or Q-tip with acetone to remove gems or charms on your nails that the acetone may damage.
Step 3:
Use the iGel Beauty Nourish Oil on your natural nails to moisturize them.
Step 4:
The last step is to lightly buff the remains on your nails with a light buffer while avoiding your natural nails. You can read our blog about nail care here!
