Most likely cause: most top coats need to be wiped with 91%+ alcohol (or the brand's specified solution) AFTER full cure to remove the tacky inhibition layer. Or use a "no wipe" top coat formula.
Other possibilities:
- Applied too thick — light can't fully penetrate. Use thinner layers.
- Lamp wattage too low — most gels need 36W+ minimum
- Wrong lamp type — OPI Intelli-Gel specifically requires LED, not UV
- Cure time too short — try 60 seconds per layer
Detailed troubleshooting: beyondpolish.com/blogs/news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-diy-gel-manicures
May 21, 2026
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