Skip to content
English
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

How Do You Activate the Magnetic Cat Eye Effect in Gel Polish?

Learn how to use a nail magnet to create a sharp, dimensional Cat Eye effect - with simple application steps, troubleshooting advice and professional tips.

 Apply Cat Eye Gel Polish, hold a nail magnet 2–5 mm above the uncured colour for 5–10 seconds, and cure immediately to lock the magnetic effect in place.
What is Cat Eye Gel Polish?

Cat Eye Gel Polish contains tiny magnetic particles. When you hold a magnet above the uncured colour, the particles move together to create the signature light reflection and dimensional effect.

How to activate the Cat Eye effect
  1. Prepare the nail
    Apply your base coat and cure.
  2. Apply Cat Eye Gel Polish
    Gently roll the bottle between your hands to distribute the magnetic particles. Apply an even layer of colour.
  3. Use the magnet before curing
    Hold the magnet approximately 2–5 mm above the wet Gel Polish without touching the nail.
  4. Create your design
    Keep the magnet still for 5–10 seconds. Move or rotate it to create lines, waves or a more concentrated reflection.
  5. Cure immediately
    Once you are happy with the effect, cure the nail. Work on one nail at a time to prevent the magnetic particles from spreading out again.
  6. Finish with top coat
    Apply top coat and cure.
Do I need to use a dark base colour?

A black or dark base colour can give the Cat Eye effect more depth and contrast, but this depends on the colour and your desired look. Some Cat Eye shades are designed to be worn without a dark base.

Why can’t I see the magnetic effect?

Possible reasons include:

  • the bottle was not mixed before use
  • the layer is too thin or uneven
  • the magnet is being held too far away
  • the magnet is not strong enough
  • the colour was cured before using the magnet
  • you waited too long before curing the finished effect
Can I change the effect if I am not happy with it?

Yes. As long as the colour has not been cured, you can use the magnet again and adjust the design. If needed, smooth out the layer and start again.

Professional tip

Create the magnetic effect in the final layer of Cat Eye Gel Polish. Work on one nail at a time and cure as soon as the reflection looks right. The closer you hold the magnet without touching the product, the more defined the effect will be.