The nail edit · Extensions

Gel-X at home: soft-gel extension kits for beginners

A salon full set in Miami runs $70 at the median (see prices). Soft-gel extensions are a way to add length at home.

Updated October 2026

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How soft-gel extensions work

Soft-gel (Gel-X style) extensions are pre-shaped tips that you attach with gel and cure under a UV/LED lamp. Polygel is a different method: you shape the gel yourself on the nail to build length, then cure it.

How to choose

Tip sizes: more sizes make it easier to match each nail.
Everything in one box vs separate: some kits include tips, gel and tools; others need a lamp.
Prep: a dehydrator and primer help extensions and gel stick to the natural nail.
Lamp: you need a UV/LED lamp to cure — see our lamp guide.

Extension kits

#P28Extensions

Beetles Gel Nail Kit Etch-X (504 tips, 12 sizes)

Soft-gel tip extension kit (Gel-X style) for beginners.

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#P29Extensions

APRÉS Gel-X Professional Nail Extension Starter Kit

The original Gel-X brand's starter kit.

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#P30Extensions

SAVILAND Gel Nail Kit with 500 almond tips and drill

Tips, gel and an e-file in one box.

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#P31Extensions

Poly Extension Gel Nail Kit (14 pc)

Polygel kit for building length.

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Prep

#P32Extensions

Morovan Natural Nail Prep Dehydrate & Acid-Free Primer

Prep step that helps extensions and gel stick.

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A lamp to cure them

#P06Lamp · Budget

SUNUV SUNONE UV LED Nail Lamp

The best-known budget lamp brand; cures both UV and LED gels, with timer settings.

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FAQ

Gel-X vs acrylic?: Soft-gel tips attach with gel and cure under a lamp; acrylic is a liquid-and-powder system usually done at a salon.
Do I need a lamp?: Yes — gel only hardens under a UV/LED lamp.
How do I take them off?: Soak-off removal works like gel — see how to remove gel at home.

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