FAQs How to do a manicure at home using La-Bek nails.
If you have any other questions or inquiries, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to assist you!
Semi-Cured Gel Nails
Salon-level strength (without the salon).
Application, Wear + Removal:
Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips.
How do I apply La-Bek Semi-cured GEL Nail strips?
To apply LA-BEK nail stickers, simply follow these steps or view our how to apply video here.
- Clean nails with an alcohol wipe, nail polish remover or Isocol. Wash hands with soap and water and dry thoroughly
- Select the nail sticker that best fits your nail size and shape.
- Peel off the clear cover and remove the nail sticker from the backing paper.
- Place the nail sticker on your nail, gently stretching it for a perfect fit.
- Smooth out any wrinkles and trim excess with a nail file.
- Place your nails under a UV lamp and press the top to activate. Cure for 60-120 seconds for a firm, glossy finish.
- Finish with a top coat for extended wear (optional)
How long do La-Bek Semi-cured GEL Nail strips last?
LA-BEK nail stickers can last up to two weeks with proper application and care. Be sure to follow our application instructions and avoid exposure to excessive moisture or harsh chemicals to prolong the wear time.
How are UV-free wraps different from your semi-cured gel nails?
Semi-Cured = “Strength + Longevity” mani
For:
– Damaged, weak or short nails
– Nail growth
– Strengthening
– Long-wear (2+ weeks)
– Mani that “lasts through life”
– People who want premium durability
100% Cured (UV-Free) = “Fast + Flexible” mani
For:
– Quick change
– Fashion, matching outfits
– Travel
– Being outdoors (hello camp fire mani time)
– Low-maintenance people
– Those who don’t want a UV lamp
– Occasional manis
Can I shower or wash my hands after applying my nails?
For the best adhesion, avoid water, steam, or excessive moisture for at least 2-3 hours after application.
Can I use these as nail extensions
These strips are designed for natural nails and cannot be used as extensions.
Can I use nail strips on top of nail extensions?
Yes! If you want more length, you can apply your preferred nail extensions and use our nail strips on top. Just follow the application instructions as normal.
Read how Bek tested the strips on extensions here
Do I need a UV lamp?
Yes! Our semi-cured gel nails must be cured under a UV lamp to harden and seal properly. A mini UV lamp is included in our Starter Kit if you need one!
Are all UV lamps the same? Will any UV lamp work for curing my semi-cured gel nails?
Not all UV/LED lamps are made the same! The effectiveness of curing depends on the wattage and light spectrum of the lamp.
For the best results, we recommend using a UV lamp with at least 6W+ power output to ensure proper curing. Our LA-BEK UV lamp is specifically designed for semi-cured gel nails, providing the ideal intensity and wavelength to fully harden your nails for long-lasting wear.
If using a different UV lamp, ensure:
✅ It’s at least 6W
✅ It emits 365-405nm UV light
✅ You cure for 60-120 seconds (or longer if needed)
Learn more about choosing the correct lamp here
Are La-Bek Semi-cured GEL Nail strips safe to use?
Yes, LA-BEK nail stickers are made with non-toxic, odourless materials that are safe for use on your nails. They’re also cruelty-free and eco-friendly, so you can enjoy beautiful nails guilt-free!
How do I make my semi-cured gel nails last longer?
- Ensure your nails are clean and dry before applying.
- Press down firmly around the edges to seal the strip.
- Use the wooden stick to smooth and seal the edges before curing.
- Cure for 60-120 seconds
- Avoid picking or peeling at the edges to prevent lifting.
Learn more tips on how to make your mani last longer here
Can I trim or stretch the nails?
What should I do if a nail strip doesn’t fit perfectly?
Choose a size slightly smaller than your nail to prevent it from touching the skin or cuticle. If needed, you can gently stretch the strip for a better fit.
How do you remove Semi-Cured GEL Nail strips?
-
Flood the edges with cuticle oil (or non-acetone remover).
-
Slide a wooden stick under the edge and slowly lift a millimetre, then add more oil so it seeps underneath.
-
Keep oiling and easing — don’t pull. If you feel resistance, pause, re-oil, and try again.
-
After removal, wash your hands and finish with cuticle oil or a nourishing balm.
Here’s a quick video that shows the process: https://youtube.com/shorts/zUa7UOwwyKs?si=-eLU9wSnBhYCM_mh
Will semi-cured gel nails damage my natural nails?
No, if removed properly! Avoid peeling them off—use cuticle oil or non-acetone remover to dissolve the adhesive for a safe, damage-free removal.
Common Application Issues & Fixes:
Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips.
My nails popped off after a day or two! What went wrong?
Possible causes & fixes:
• The nail strip touched your skin or cuticle: Ensure the nail strip is placed just below the cuticle, not overlapping. If the strip touches the skin, it won’t seal properly and can lift.
• Edges weren’t sealed properly: Use the wooden cuticle stick to press down and smooth the edges before curing to create a tight seal.
• Nail surface wasn’t prepped properly: Always clean your nails thoroughly to remove any oils before application. Buffing your nails lightly can also help with adhesion.
My nail strips went hard and weren’t sticky when I applied them!
Possible causes & fixes:
• They cured before application: Semi-cured gel nails are light-sensitive and can begin curing if exposed to sunlight or UV light before application. Apply them in a shaded area, away from windows or direct light.
• They were stored incorrectly: Keep your unused nail strips in their black sleeve and away from heat/light to prevent them from curing prematurely.
My nails feel thick and stiff after application – is this normal?
Yes! Unlike thin plastic nail wraps, semi-cured gel nails are made from real gel polish and harden completely under UV light. This gives you a salon-quality manicure that lasts!
I accidentally placed the nail strip incorrectly – can I reposition it?
Yes, but be quick! If the strip isn’t fully pressed down, you can gently peel it off and reapply before curing. If it’s already been cured, you’ll need to remove and replace it.
The tips of my nails look rough after filing. What should I do?
Try this:
• Make sure you’re filing in one downward direction instead of a back-and-forth motion.
• Cure your nails before filing for a cleaner finish.
• If the edge still feels rough, gently press it down with your finger or cuticle stick and re-cure for an extra 30 seconds.
After a week, my hair gets stuck in my nails!
Possible causes & fixes:
• The edges weren’t fully sealed before curing: Use the cuticle stick to press down firmly along the edges before placing your nails under the UV lamp.
• Filing technique may have lifted the edges: When shaping your nails, file in one downward direction, not back and forth, to prevent lifting.
• A little extra curing may help: If the edges feel slightly lifted after curing, place your nails under the UV lamp for another 30-60 seconds to ensure full adhesion.
My nails aren’t lasting a full two weeks – what can I do?
Possible causes & fixes:
• Hands were exposed to water too soon after application: Avoid washing hands, doing dishes, or showering for at least 2 hours after curing. Water exposure too soon can affect adhesion.
• Strips were too big for the nail: Always go for a slightly smaller strip rather than one that touches your skin – you can gently stretch the strip to fit.
• Nail damage may affect adhesion: If your nails are brittle, peeling, or damaged, the strips may not adhere as well. Try using LA-BEK Cuticle Oil daily to promote healthy, strong nails.
Can I trim or reshape the nail strips before curing?
Yes! You can cut the strips with small scissors before applying them to your nails for a better fit. After applying, use the nail file in a downward motion to remove excess.
My nails have ridges, and I can see them under the strips!
Smooth the nail surface before applying. Lightly buff your nails before cleaning with the alcohol prep pad to create an even surface.
How can I make removal easier and prevent nail damage?
Never rip off your nails! Instead:
• Use cuticle oil or coconut oil to help loosen the adhesive.
• Gently lift one side of the nail and slide a wooden cuticle stick underneath, applying oil as you go.
• Take your time – this method protects your natural nails and makes removal effortless!
My natural nails feel weak after removing the strips. What should I do?
This can happen if your nails were previously damaged. We recommend:
- Applying cuticle oil or a nail-strengthening balm.
- Giving your nails a short break between applications if needed.
- Using our Cuticle Oil Pen to nourish and hydrate your nails.
Storage & Product Care:
Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips.
How should I store my leftover nail strips?
Since semi-cured gel nails are light and heat sensitive, store them inside the black sleeve they came in. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme heat to prevent them from curing early.
Can I reuse leftover nail strips?
Yes! If stored properly, any unused strips can be used later. Just ensure they remain in the sealed package away from light and heat.
UV-Free Gel Nails
Our UV-free wraps are just one more way to enjoy La-Bek — designed to give you choice, ease, and beautiful nails that fit real life.
LAUNCHING SOON!
VIP subscribers will receive early access 24 hours before launch.
You can join the VIP list on our website to be first to know.
Application, Wear + Removal:
UV-Free Gel Nail Strips.
How are UV-free wraps different from your semi-cured gel nails?
Semi-Cured = “Strength + Longevity” mani
For:
– Damaged, weak or short nails
– Nail growth
– Strengthening
– Long-wear (2+ weeks)
– Mani that “lasts through life”
– People who want premium durability
100% Cured (UV-Free) = “Fast + Flexible” mani
For:
– Quick change
– Fashion, matching outfits
– Travel
– Being outdoors (hello camp fire mani time)
– Low-maintenance people
– Those who don’t want a UV lamp
– Occasional manis
What are UV-free gel nail wraps?
Our UV-free gel nail wraps give you a polished, salon-quality mani without needing a UV lamp. They’re designed to be easy to apply, long-wearing, and perfect for real life — just peel, stick, and go.
Do UV-free wraps still last well?
Yes — when applied correctly, UV-free wraps are designed to last several days to two weeks, depending on your lifestyle and nail prep.
For longer wear, we recommend careful prep and sealing the tips well.
Are UV-free wraps suitable for beginners?
Absolutely.
This range was created with beginners, busy women, teens, and anyone wanting a simpler mani in mind. No lamp, no curing, no guesswork.
How do I apply La-Bek UV-Free GEL Nails?
To apply LA-BEK nail stickers, simply follow these steps or view our how to apply video here.
- Clean nails with an alcohol wipe, nail polish remover or Isocol. Wash hands with soap and water and dry thoroughly
- Select the nail sticker that best fits your nail size and shape.
- Peel off the clear cover and remove the nail sticker from the backing paper.
- Place the nail sticker on your nail, gently stretching it for a perfect fit.
- Smooth out any wrinkles and trim excess with nail scissors.
- Clean up the edge of your nail with the provided nail file, making sure to file in one downward direction.
- For the best adhesion, avoid water, steam, or excessive moisture for at least 2-3 hours after application.
How long do La-Bek UV-FREE GEL Nail strips last?
LA-BEK UV-Free Gel nails can last up to two weeks with proper application and care. Be sure to follow our application instructions and avoid exposure to excessive moisture or harsh chemicals to prolong the wear time.
Can I shower or wash my hands after applying my nails?
For the best adhesion, avoid water, steam, or excessive moisture for at least 2-3 hours after application.
Can I still use your other nail care products with this range?
Definitely. Our cuticle oil pen, balm, tools, and top coats all pair perfectly with UV-free wraps.
Please note: our top coats do require a UV lamp to cure. If you don’t have a lamp or prefer not to use one, you can simply skip the top coat.
How do you remove UV-Free GEL Nail strips?
-
Flood the edges with cuticle oil (or non-acetone remover).
-
Slide a wooden stick under the edge and slowly lift a millimetre, then add more oil so it seeps underneath.
-
Keep oiling and easing — don’t pull. If you feel resistance, pause, re-oil, and try again.
-
After removal, wash your hands and finish with cuticle oil or a nourishing balm.
Here’s a quick video that shows the process: https://youtube.com/shorts/zUa7UOwwyKs?si=-eLU9wSnBhYCM_mh
Can I use these as nail extensions
These strips are designed for natural nails and cannot be used as extensions.
Can I use nail strips on top of nail extensions?
Yes! If you want more length, you can apply your preferred nail extensions and use our nail strips on top. Just follow the application instructions as normal.
Do I need a UV lamp?
No! Our UV-Free Gel Nails are 100% cured meaning you can apply without the use of a lamp.
Are La-Bek UV-Free GEL Nails safe to use?
Yes, LA-BEK nail stickers are made with non-toxic, odourless materials that are safe for use on your nails. They’re also cruelty-free and eco-friendly, so you can enjoy beautiful nails guilt-free!
Are UV-free wraps better for nail health?
UV-free wraps eliminate the need for UV curing, which some customers prefer for peace of mind.
As with all nail products, proper removal and nail care are key to maintaining healthy nails.
Do UV-free wraps damage natural nails?
When applied and removed correctly, UV-free wraps are gentle on natural nails.
We always recommend slow, careful removal using our cuticle oil pen — never force or peel.
How do I make my UV-Free gel nails last longer?
- Ensure your nails are clean and dry before applying.
- Avoid touching skin or cuticle with the strip, if in doubt – size down.
- Press down firmly around the edges to seal the strip.
- Use the wooden stick to smooth and seal the edges
- For the best adhesion, avoid water, steam, or excessive moisture for at least 2-3 hours after application.
- Avoid picking or peeling at the edges to prevent lifting.
Can I trim or stretch the nails?
What should I do if a nail strip doesn’t fit perfectly?
Choose a size slightly smaller than your nail to prevent it from touching the skin or cuticle. If needed, you can gently stretch the strip for a better fit.
Common Application Issues & Fixes:
UV-Free Gel Nail Strips.
My nails popped off after a day or two! What went wrong?
Possible causes & fixes:
• The nail strip touched your skin or cuticle: Ensure the nail strip is placed just below the cuticle, not overlapping. If the strip touches the skin, it won’t seal properly and can lift.
• Edges weren’t sealed properly: Use the wooden cuticle stick to press down and smooth the edges before curing to create a tight seal.
• Nail surface wasn’t prepped properly: Always clean your nails thoroughly to remove any oils before application. Buffing your nails lightly can also help with adhesion.
I accidentally placed the nail strip incorrectly – can I reposition it?
Yes! If the strip isn’t fully pressed down, you can gently peel it off and reapply.
The tips of my nails look rough after filing. What should I do?
Try this:
• Make sure you’re filing in one downward direction instead of a back-and-forth motion.
• If the edge still feels rough you can use nail clippers to carefully trim the tips.
After a week, my hair gets stuck in my nails!
Possible causes & fixes:
• The edges weren’t fully sealed: Use the cuticle stick to press down firmly along the edges.
• Filing technique may have lifted the edges: When shaping your nails, file in one downward direction, not back and forth, to prevent lifting.
• The strip was too close to your cuticle and did not stick: Make sure the strip only comes in contact with the nail surface and does not overlap any cuticle or skin as this will cause the strip to lift.
My nails aren’t lasting – what can I do?
Possible causes & fixes:
• Hands were exposed to water too soon after application: Avoid washing hands, doing dishes, or showering for at least 2 hours after curing. Water exposure too soon can affect adhesion.
• Strips were too big for the nail: Always go for a slightly smaller strip rather than one that touches your skin – you can gently stretch the strip to fit.
• Nail damage may affect adhesion: If your nails are brittle, peeling, or damaged, the strips may not adhere as well. Try using LA-BEK Cuticle Oil daily to promote healthy, strong nails.
My nails have ridges, and I can see them under the strips!
Smooth the nail surface before applying. Lightly buff your nails before cleaning with the alcohol prep pad to create an even surface.
How can I make removal easier and prevent nail damage?
Never rip off your nails! Instead:
• Use cuticle oil or coconut oil to help loosen the adhesive.
• Gently lift one side of the nail and slide a wooden cuticle stick underneath, applying oil as you go.
• Take your time – this method protects your natural nails and makes removal effortless!
My natural nails feel weak after removing the strips. What should I do?
This can happen if your nails were previously damaged. We recommend:
- Applying cuticle oil or a nail-strengthening balm.
- Giving your nails a short break between applications if needed.
- Using our Cuticle Oil Pen to nourish and hydrate your nails.
Storage & Product Care:
UV-Free Gel Nail Strips.
How should I store my leftover nail strips?
Store your left over UV-Free Gel Nail Strips in a cool dry place.
Can I reuse leftover nail strips?
Yes! If stored properly, any unused strips can be used later.
Our Products & Brand
100% Happiness Guarantee:
At La-Bek, we want every mani to feel effortless and joyful — so if you’re not 100% happy with your first application, we’ll make it right.
How does the guarantee work?
1. Personalised Support First
If your nails aren’t lasting as expected, lifting early, or not applying the way you hoped, we’ll work with you one-on-one to troubleshoot.
This includes:
-
step-by-step application guidance
-
help choosing the right prep routine for your nail type
-
removal advice
-
personalised tips from our nail experts
Most issues can be fixed quickly with a few adjustments, and we genuinely love helping customers get the best results.
2. Replacement Set if Needed
If after troubleshooting your mani still isn’t right, we’ll replace the set with something we know will work better for you — free of charge.
(Replacement includes the nail set. Shipping method may vary depending on the situation.)
How do I claim the guarantee?
Simply email us at hello@la-bek.com.au with:
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your order number
-
a quick description of the issue
-
photos of your nails if possible
This helps us diagnose what happened and fix it fast.
What’s Covered?
Our Happiness Guarantee covers:
-
early lifting or adhesion issues
-
application difficulties
-
product defects
-
first-time user challenges
-
unexpected results that don’t meet your expectations
What Isn’t Covered?
To keep things fair, the guarantee doesn’t cover:
-
sets damaged through misuse (e.g., using strips as extensions)
-
wear-and-tear from activities known to damage nails (heavy lifting, chemicals without gloves, etc.)
-
changes of mind on colours after application
General & Miscellaneous
Are your nails vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes! Our semi-cured gel nails and UV-Free nails are 100% cruelty-free and made with vegan-friendly ingredients.
Do you offer bundle discounts?
Yes! Our Buy 3, Get the 4th Free offer is always available, making it easy to stock up on your favourite colours.
where are they manufactured
Our semi-cured gel nails and UV-Free nails are manufactured in China. We take great pride in ensuring that our products are made in facilities that prioritise both quality and ethical standards. Here are some key points about our manufacturing process:
- Our products are free of toxic and non-polluting substances, and we adhere to professional and recycled OEM production standards.
- Our facilities have passed BSCI social responsibility system certification, ISO9001 quality system certification, SGS certification, FDA certification, and FSC certification. These certifications ensure that our manufacturing processes meet the highest standards for quality and social responsibility.
- We have a dedicated research laboratory centre to ensure the safety and quality of our products. Our nail strips are produced in a purified and non-polluting workshop environment, using safe, non-toxic, and eco-friendly materials.
- The printing process for our nail stickers utilises a German four-color printing machine and a Taiwan automatic screen printing machine, ensuring bright, long-lasting colours that do not fade.
- Our factory operates with a pollution-free system and adheres to BSCI social responsibility system certification and ISO9001 quality system certification. Each batch of gel nail strips undergoes rigorous testing for colour and quality before release to ensure they meet our high standards.
We are committed to ethical practices and ensuring that employees involved in manufacturing are treated fairly. Our products are cruelty-free, aligning with global cosmetics standards.
How can I contact customer service?
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team. We’re here to help and strive to respond to all inquiries promptly.
Do you ship internationally?
At the moment, we only ship within Australia using Australia Post. However, we’re working on expanding our shipping options to include international destinations in the future.
Can I recycle my used La-Bek products?
Yes! We’ve just launched our Send-Back Recycling Program. You can send back your used backing slips, the clear protective layer, empty cuticle pens, and outer black sleeves for recycling. Please note: we cannot accept used nail strips, as these are considered contaminated waste. For full details and instructions, click here to learn more →
What should I do with leftover nail strips I haven’t used?
We encourage using up your leftover strips! You can apply them to your toes, mix and match with other colours, or share them with a friend. We even have a blog post with ideas → on how to get creative and reduce waste. If you still prefer to send them back, we can recycle them for you — just include them in your return pouch.
Rewards & Points
What is the Frequent Filers Club?
Our loyalty program! You earn points for shopping, reviewing, referring, recycling, and more. Then you can redeem those points for $$ off future orders.
How do I earn points?
You’ll earn points for things like:
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Shopping (1 point per $1 spent)
-
Creating an account
-
Referrals
-
Following & sharing on socials
-
Sending back La-Bek packaging for recycling
Check out the full list on our Rewards Info Page.
What can I recycle to earn points?
We accept:
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Plastic backing strips
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Outer packaging
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Clear plastic covers
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Empty cuticle pens
We cannot accept used nail strips (sorry!).
How do referrals work?
Share your unique referral link (found in your account). When your friend makes their first purchase, you’ll both get 100 points!
Do I earn points on past orders?
The Frequent Filers program launched on 1st June 2024, so points begin accumulating from that date forward. Orders placed before the launch aren’t eligible for points, as the program didn’t exist yet — thanks for your understanding!
You’ll earn points on all future orders, plus there are lots of other ways to earn (like referrals, reviews, and more!).
How do I redeem my points?
Once you’ve earned at least 100 points, you can redeem them at checkout for $5 off. Rewards are issued as coupons and are valid for 30 days.
Do points expire?
Yes—points expire 365 days after you earn them. But don’t worry, we’ll send you a reminder 30 days before they disappear ????
Do I need an account to earn points?
Yes—you’ll need a La-Bek account to start earning and tracking points. It’s free to join, and you’ll get 50 points just for signing up!
Can I use rewards with other discounts?
No, rewards can’t be combined with other discount codes.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
At La-Bek, we believe beauty shouldn’t come at the cost of the planet. That’s why we’re committed to making thoughtful, ongoing changes to reduce waste across our entire range.
Here’s how we’re making a difference:
– We’re phasing out single-use items like prep pads.
– Our mailers are made from recycled materials, and we’ve introduced a soft plastic recycling program at our HQ.
– We also run a return-to-recycle program so customers can send back used slips, empty cuticle pens, and more. click here to learn more →
We’re proud to be one of the only semi-cured gel nail brands with sustainability at the heart of what we do—and we’re just getting started.
Let’s do better together.