We'll never say no to a professional look, but many beauty enthusiasts are taking their nail routines into our own hands by using one of the best at-home gel manicure kits. From press-on manicures and dip powder kits to ones for acrylics, the demand for at-home nail staples continues to grow. As convenient as a trip to the local salon may be, there's something extra rewarding about knowing how to design an expert-level mani from start to finish.
Shop the Best At-Home Gel Kits
Unlike regular nail polishes, gel requires zero drying time, thanks to their accompanying curing lamps, which gives you even more time to show off a new manicure. Whether you’re looking to moonlight as a nail tech, or just save a little money, we've found some of the best at-home gel manicure kits for seamless, long-lasting styles: From easy sets for beginners to popular options that don't even require LED light.
Pros
Easy to use
Cons
- Only comes with one polish shade
Get up to 10 gel manicures with this beloved starter kit from the professionals at Sally Hansen. Its included polish, Shell We Dance, is a soft, neutral shade we're betting you’ll want to wear again and again.
One satisfied customer writes:
"I bought this yesterday. I used it once it works perfectly! Sooo easy it's great!" —Notagirlygirl
| Features: | LED lamp, gel base, and gel top coat |
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Pros
- Top-rated
Cons
This starter kit contains everything needed for your first at-home gel manicure. In addition to a foundation and top coat, you'll also find two full-size polishes along with a handy travel-size LED lamp for the perfect finish.
One satisfied customer writes:
"This, it was a great value for the money. For salon quality manicures at home I highly recommend this kit. The one thing it doesn’t tell you is that you do have to wipe the topcoat after curing with an alcohol wipe to get the sticky to go away." —Lauren D.
| Features: | Two soak-off gel polishes, LED light |
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Pros
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Only cures one nail at a time
This set’s macaron-shaped light cures one nail at a time, while the all-in-one polish sets without additional foundation, bond, or top coat steps. And, if you click the product link, there are eight colors to choose from. (Bonus: the lamp will still work with other gel polishes.)
| Features: | LED lamp,1-step gel polish, cuticle stick, nail file,10 remover pads |
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Pros
- Foil and cotton balls included
Cons
This beloved at-home gel kit from Zoya is moving fast, and is ideal for crafting a fresh mani while on-the-go. Along with a featherweight LED lamp for curing, the set also features travel-size care staples, like serum and polish remover.
| Features: | Rescue Serum (.5oz), Repair Base (.5oz), Naked Gelie (.5oz), Clear Shine (1oz), Remove (1oz), a 3-way nail file, cuticle pusher, lint-free wipes, soak-off nail foils, cotton balls, and a travel LED light |
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Pros
- Includes a range of nail tools and accessories
Cons
- May be difficult for beginners
Unlike most gel polish kits, this one from Red Carpet Manicure contains eight sets of ready-to-wear gel tips that fit and adhere to your natural nails (think of them as do-it-yourself gel extensions).
One satisfied customer writes:
"I purchased this as I have very short nails. I wish I could add a picture because they definitely look salon quality. Make sure to carefully read the instructions on the pamphlet and the bottles. I only had two pop off in the last two days due to poorly fitting them when I did them. If you have to push fairly hard for a fit to your nails, make sure to file the curve of the base flatter for a tighter fit. Good value as I did not have a nail light. You get everything you need." —Brie
| Features: | Tip primer, adhesive, LED light, nail tips, top coat, metal light stand, cuticle oil, gel polish, removal wraps; buffer tool and pads, file, orangewood sticks |
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Pros
- Includes two polish options
Cons
- Chips more easily than standard gel
Not ready to make the official commitment to gel polish? Essie’s Gel Couture polishes and top coat makes it a breeze to get a practically chip-free look that lasts up to two weeks, no LED lamp required.
One satisfied customer writes:
"I've been looking for something healthier than using a gel lamp and cheaper than going to the salon. I think this is finally it! It's a nice natural look but polished and shiny and my nails are finally being allowed to get healthy and strong! Especially after I switched to a non-acetone polish remover—which I can actually use with this polish!" —KnowledgeSeeker
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Pros
- Plant-based and vegan
Cons
Manucurist Paris's plant-based gel formulas are designed to stay put for up to 10 days straight, but can also be removed in a minute flat. And since you can choose up to five polish shades to include in your set, you can change your nail color almost as often as you change clothes.
| Features: | Base coat, top coat, remover and clips, and 36W LED lamp, kit bag |
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Pros
- Popular on Amazon
Cons
- May contain more pieces than needed
For those who want the full salon experience, this 32-piece kit gives you everything you need to shape and polish your nails like the pros, including six neutral, wearable polishes.
One satisfied customer writes:
"I definitely recommend this kit, I’ve never done gel polish before so I didn’t really know what to expect, but I’m impressed. I lift weights and I’m a nurse, so I’m not exactly easy on my hands, but this polish held up through it all. I followed the directions on the packaging as far as time to cure, and watched a couple YouTube videos for tips on application." —Lyndsey D.
| Features: | 6 gel polish colors, top coat, base gel, UV/LED nail lamp, nail art tools |
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Is gel nail polish bad for your nails?
No, as long as polish is removed properly. However, peeling and removing gel polish without following the correct steps can damage the nails and nail beds. It's also a good idea to opt for regular polish about every eight weeks which allows your nails to re-hydrate and re-strengthen.
How do I make my nails stronger while wearing gel polish?
Cuticle oil and a top-rated strengthening serum can help fortify your nails while wearing gel polish. These care staples also come in handy while wearing regular nail polish, or none at all.
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How long does gel polish typically last?
The best gel manicures provide a protective shell atop of your regular nails that make the polish more chip-resistant when cured properly. According to most nail technicians, a typical gel manicure can last anywhere from two to three weeks, unless removed sooner.
Shop more of our nail care favorites
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- The Essential Nail Kits for Your Best Manicure, Ever
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- The Best Nail Drills for Expert-Level Buffing and Shaping
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