A good beginner gel kit has a UV/LED lamp, base coat, top coat, 4 to 6 colours, a dehydrator, a file and buffer, a cuticle pusher, cuticle oil, lint-free wipes and a remover. Expect to spend around ₹6,500 to ₹7,000 buying pieces separately, or start with a ready-made kit from ₹2,499.
Every week, someone walks into our store saying "I want to start nail art, what do I buy?" Usually they're about to buy far too much, or miss the basics that make gel last.
This is the list we give them. Start here, practise, and add tools as your skills grow.
The must-haves
| Item | Why you need it | Our pick |
|---|---|---|
| UV/LED nail lamp | Cures (hardens) every gel layer | Diamond Nail Art UV/LED Lamp |
| Base coat | Helps gel grip, stops lifting | Base Coat 15ML |
| Top coat | Shine and protection | High Shiny Top Coat |
| 4 to 6 gel colours | Start with a nude, a red, a pink, a black and a white | Shills Professional UV/LED Gel Nail Polish 15ml |
| Dehydrator | Removes oil so gel sticks better | Dehydrator 15ml |
| File and buffer | Shape and prep the nail | Nail Grooming Filer & Buffer Set |
| Cuticle pusher | Clean nail edges for a neat finish | Nail Art Rainbow Cuticle Pusher S-511 |
| Cuticle oil | Aftercare, keeps nails healthy | Cuticle Oil 15 ML |
| Lint-free wipes | Clean nails and wipe the sticky layer | Lint Free Wipes |
| Gel remover | Safe removal without peeling | Magic Remover |
What it costs
Buying these pieces separately at our current prices comes to roughly ₹6,700 (with 4 colours). Add a few art tools below and you're at about ₹7,750.
Prefer one box? Ready-made kits are a simple way to start:
- Beginner Friendly Nail Art Kit for Home & Salon Use: a budget-friendly start for home practice.
- Basic Nail Art Kit: a fuller setup if you're planning to take clients.
Prices change from time to time. The product cards at the end of this post always show today's price.
Nice to have, once you've practised
- Dotting tools and fine brushes for dots, lines and florals, like the 5 In 1 Dotting Tool and Fine Art Nail Brush 12mm.
- A practice hand so you can practise without a model: Practice Hand.
- Cat eye gel and a magnet for one of the most requested looks right now.
- Chrome powders, foils and stickers for quick wow designs.
- A hand rest for comfort during long sessions: Hand Rest.
What you can skip at the start
- A nail drill machine. Learn hand filing first. Drills need training to use safely.
- Huge shade kits. Five colours you love beat fifty you never use.
- Acrylic systems. Master gel first, then move to extensions.
Planning to do nails professionally?
If you're starting a nail business, buy a salon-size lamp, a bigger shade range and good quality files. You'll also save a lot by buying in bulk. Many nail artists in Ahmedabad stock up with us every month at wholesale rates. Ask for a bulk quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best nail art kit for beginners in India?
Start with a kit that has a UV/LED lamp, base coat, top coat and a few colours. Our Beginner Friendly Nail Art Kit is a popular first buy, and you can add tools as you learn.
Can I learn nail art at home?
Yes. With a practice hand, a beginner kit and online tutorials, you can learn the basics at home. A short course helps if you plan to work professionally.
How many gel colours should a beginner buy?
4 to 6 is plenty. A nude, a classic red, a pink, black and white cover most looks and let you practise nail art.
