How to Make a Pop Off Set for Nails – Step by Step Guide

How to Do Pop Off Nails – Simple Guide to Temporary Nail Extensions

A pop off set is perfect if you need a temporary solution or want to practice nail techniques like new designers or maybe you have a job that only allows you to wear nail extensions in your free time? Then a pop off set is a perfect solution. It is a temporary nail extension that can be removed easily without damaging your natural nails. Here we go through how to make a pop off set in a few easy steps.

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What is a Pop Off Set?

A pop off set is a temporary nail extension that is created using specific materials that make it easy to remove the entire nail extension in one piece. This method is often used by nail technologists to practice or create different nail designs temporarily. It also protects your natural nails from any damage that may occur from repeated nail application and removal.

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Materials needed:

- Top coat (No wipe)

- Cuticle oil

- Nail gel, gel polish or acrylic (for the extension)

- Nail tips or shapes (to create the length)

- File and buffer

- Nail primer and dehydrator (optional, depending on how temporary you want the extension to be)

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Step by Step: How to Make a Pop Off Set

1. Prepare your natural nails

Start by cleaning your nails thoroughly and filing them to the desired shape. You do not need to use a nail primer or dehydrator, as this can cause the extension to stick too tightly to the nail. If you use a dehydrator and primer, keep in mind that it may be more difficult to remove the extension later.

2. Apply the base

This step is the key to a successful pop off set. Instead of doing your usual prepping, apply cuticle oil all over the nail bed. Then apply a layer of No wipe top coat, cure for 60 seconds under the nail lamp, this is best done before the oil has had time to dry too much on the nail. Then apply another layer of no wipe top coat, cure for 60 seconds.

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TIP: Use a top coat that you dedicate exclusively to pop-off nails. This is to prevent oil from coming into contact with the top coat you use for regular nails. Oil in the top coat can cause lifting of the nail material.

3. Attach the tips

Now that you have created the base, it is time to create your extension. Attach the nail tips as usual with nail glue or use templates, depending on which method you prefer. Here you can shape and file the nails to the desired length and shape.

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4. Build up the nail

Start by applying the first layer of gel or acrylic to the extension. Build up the nail until you are happy with the thickness and structure. Use a UV lamp to cure if using gel or let the acrylic cure in the air.

5. Shape and finish

After the nails have hardened, file and buff the surface to get a nice finish, remember to file the nails gently as it is a pop off set (I usually keep a light grip on the nail for support so you don't accidentally hit it too hard with the file). You can now paint any color or design you want, then apply top coat.

6. Pop off your nails

When you are ready to remove the nails, they should "pop" off relatively easily if you have applied the oil base correctly. Use an orange wood stick or a cuticle pusher to gently lift the nail from the side, but be careful not to pull too hard. The nails should come off without leaving any damage to your natural nails.

Tips and tricks:

- Use cuticle oil: Apply a thin layer of cuticle oil to the nail bed before starting your pop off set to further reduce adhesion.

- Practice new designs: Pop off sets are perfect if you want to experiment with new design techniques without worrying about permanent results.

- Storage and Reuse: You can sometimes reuse your pop off set nails if they are in good condition. Just attach them with nail glue or double-sided tape if you want to wear them again temporarily.

A pop off set of nail extensions is an excellent method for those who want to practice creating nail designs, build temporary nail extensions or protect your natural nails from wear and tear. With the right technique and materials, you can create beautiful nails that are easy to remove without compromising the health of your nails. Happy nail crafting!

Want to get even better? Read our article on 7 mistakes to avoid when doing nail extensions .