magnetic lacquer nail polish

Magnetic gels contain ultra-fine magnetic particles that line up when exposed to a magnet. Shake the bottle to mix the particles, apply a thin layer of polish, then hold the magnet tool about 1 inch (2–3 cm) above the wet polish and hover or move it side-to-side to form the pattern. After creating the effect on each nail, cure the polish under the recommended LED lamp.

According to the product listings, magnetic gel polishes typically last up to about two weeks—many items state "Lasts up to 2 weeks" or "Lasts for up to 14 days." Actual wear time may vary with application and nail care.

Typical steps listed are: 1) Prep nails—clean, trim/file, push back cuticles, lightly buff and remove oils. 2) Shake the polish to mix magnetic particles. 3) Apply one thin coat of polish. 4) Use the magnet tool over the wet polish to activate the effect. 5) Cure each nail under an LED lamp. 6) Optionally apply a top coat and cure again.

The primary tools are a magnet tool (for forming the magnetic design) and an LED curing lamp (for curing the gel). Some starter kits include the magnet and/or LED lamp, but many single-color gels note that the magnet and lamp are sold separately.

Magnetic gel polishes are cured with an LED lamp. Listings mention cure times such as about 30 seconds for a mini LED lamp and roughly 60 seconds per nail in other instructions. Some products specify a required LED lamp (sold separately), so follow the manufacturer's recommended cure time.