I am an unapologetic sucker for an at-home manicure routine. Mostly because I’m, quite frankly, the most anti-social person alive. After a ten-hour day in an office full of small talk, the last thing I want to do is head to a salon and make even more small talk for another two hours. Don’t get me wrong — I know you can have life-changing chats with your nail tech. But by the time I’ve finished work, I’ve got nothing left to give.
So, a few years ago, I decided to take matters (and my manicures) into my own hands. Literally.
How It Started
When I first started doing my nails at home, I was wildly ambitious. I was convinced I’d be the next acrylic queen. Spoiler: I wasn’t. Within hours, I had a headache from the fumes, thick chunky nails that looked like I’d glued on plastic spoons, and a deep regret that lingered for days.
That was when I admitted defeat and switched to gel. It looked simpler, cleaner, and less likely to gas me out of my own bedroom. I picked up a Sensationail kit from Boots, and for a couple of years, it did the job just fine. But, like anything, once you start getting good at it, you want better results. That’s when I found The Gel Bottle Inc., and I’ve never looked back.
Discovering The Gel Bottle Inc.
If you scroll through Instagram as much as I do, you’ll know The Gel Bottle Inc. is everywhere. Their colours are gorgeous, the quality is unmatched, and their cult favourite BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) completely changed my at-home routine. BIAB is exactly what it sounds like — a strengthening builder gel that you apply straight from the bottle, no messy pots or separate brushes required. It makes your nails stronger, smoother, and more professional-looking. The only catch is that The Gel Bottle Inc. is pro-only, meaning you need to have certification to buy it. Luckily for me, I did a gel course back in college, so I was good to go.
My Current Manicure: The Classic French
Right now, I’m loving a classic French manicure. It’s timeless, elegant, and thankfully back in style — though I’ve been wearing it long before Bella Hadid made it cool again, thank you very much. Here’s what I use for my current routine:
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BIAB in Teddy (for strength and a soft nude base)
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Gel Polish in Marshmallow (a sheer pink wash)
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Gel Polish in Daisy (the perfect white for tips)
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Ultra Shine Top Coat (for that glassy finish)
From start to finish, the whole thing takes me about an hour and a half — and it’s honestly therapeutic at this point.
How I Do It
I always start with completely bare nails. I make sure every trace of old polish is gone, then wipe over with pure acetone to remove any oils. From there:
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BIAB Base: One thin coat of Teddy, cured under the lamp.
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Second Coat: A slightly thicker layer of Teddy to build strength and shape. Before curing, I turn my hand upside down to let the product form a natural apex (thank you, YouTube tutorials).
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Colour Layer: Once the base is set, I apply a single coat of Marshmallow — just enough to give a pretty, sheer pink tint.
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French Tip: I apply Daisy to my thumb, then gently press it along the edge of each nail for the perfect even white line. (It’s weirdly satisfying.)
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Top Coat: Finally, two layers of Ultra Shine Top Coat, cured between each. Smooth, glossy, and done.
Why I Love My DIY Manicures
My at-home manicure routine has become a little ritual — calm music, a cup of tea, and an hour of quiet while I focus on something creative. I stick to classic shapes and colours because they always look chic and polished without being over the top. Plus, I get all the satisfaction of fresh nails without the awkward small talk or the “so, where are you going on holiday?” interrogation that comes free with most salons. It’s bliss.
So, that’s my little at-home manicure routine. It’s simple, effective, and feels like a tiny act of self-care that fits perfectly into my week. Do you do your own nails, or do you prefer the salon experience? Let me know in the comments — and if you’ve ever tried The Gel Bottle Inc., tell me your favourite shades!
