Getting gel nail extensions involves painting hard gel over a natural nail and curing the polish with UV light. Then, the manicurist uses a nail form, which is a sticker that goes under the free edge (the tip) of the nail to extend the length of the nail. Top manicurists like Davis and Seney also rely on a newer method. It's an already shaped full soft gel nail tip that you secure on the natural nail with gel, explains Davis. They come in different sizes and shapes, like stiletto, round, coffin, and square. As it doesn't need filling, it's even quicker than the actual gel extension building. I recommend brands Kiara Sky Gelly Tips and Apres Gel X, says Seney. The only prerequisite is that your nails can't be bitten to the quick. For a gel extension, your nail needs to have a little length, not a ton, but just a bit, says Davis. If your nails are too short, there isn't anything for the extension to stick to.