NailSala Academy Lesson

Cat Eye Nails

Learn how cat eye gel works and how to control the magnetic effect for a smooth, professional finish.

Nail Art & Designs Beginner 10 min Updated August 2026
Watch How It’s Done

Free lesson • Learn at your own pace

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Before You Begin

Lesson Overview

Learn how cat eye gel works and how to control the magnetic effect for a smooth, professional finish.

Skill level Beginner
Estimated time 10 min
Experience needed No previous cat eye experience needed
Perfect for Beginners learning magnetic nail art

What You’ll Learn

  • Create a smooth velvet cat-eye effect

Take your time with each step and cure only after you are satisfied with the magnetic effect.

Follow Along

Step-by-Step Guide

Use these written steps alongside the video and work through the technique at your own pace.

1

PREP

Prepare the Nails

Prepare the nail surface, push back the cuticles, remove surface shine gently, and cleanse away dust and oils before applying gel.
2

COLOR

Apply the Cat Eye Gel

Apply an even layer of cat eye gel. Keep the layer smooth and do not cure yet because the magnetic particles must remain movable.

Recreate the Look

Tools & Products Used

These are the tools and products featured in this lesson. Select any item to learn more.

Product image coming soon
ESSENTIAL

Cat Eye Magnet

Controls and concentrates the magnetic particles in uncured cat eye gel to create different reflective effects.

View Product
Product image coming soon
ESSENTIAL

Cat Eye Gel Polish

Contains magnetic particles that move when exposed to a magnet, creating the reflective cat eye effect.

View Product

Product recommendations are included to help you recreate the technique shown in this lesson.

Expert Advice

Pro Tips

Use these professional tips to improve control, avoid common problems, and create a cleaner finished result.

MAGNET TIP

Move the Magnet Before Curing

Experiment with the magnet position while the gel is still uncured. Once you like the reflective effect, cure it immediately to lock the design in place.
PRO TIP

Work One Nail at a Time

Create the magnetic effect and cure each nail before moving to the next so the magnetic particles stay in the position you want.

Watch & Learn

Watch How It’s Done

Follow the full technique at your own pace, then use the written steps below for reference.

Pause, replay, or slow down the video whenever you need.

Need More Help?

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to the questions learners commonly have about this technique.

Do I cure cat eye gel before using the magnet?
No. Apply the cat eye gel and use the magnet while the gel is still uncured. Once you achieve the effect you want, cure the nail to lock the magnetic particles in place.
Why is my cat eye effect not showing clearly?
Make sure you are using magnetic cat eye gel and hold the magnet close to the uncured gel without touching it. The distance, angle, and movement of the magnet can all change how strong the effect appears.

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