Long extensions (8mm+) require: (1) Tip or sculpting form, (2) Hard gel or acrylic for structure, (3) Builder Gel BIAB for overlay, (4) Color gel + top coat for finish, (5) 48W+ LED lamp, (6) Files for shaping. DTK stocks complete kits for each system.
Acrylic: strongest, best for very long extensions (12mm+), powder + monomer system. Hard Gel: lighter than acrylic, harder than BIAB, soak-off resistant. Gel-X (Apres): pre-shaped soft gel tips bonded with Extend Gel — fastest application, beginner-friendly, soak-off.
Gel-X is a soft gel extension tip system by Apres Nail. Pre-shaped tips in stiletto/almond/coffin/square come in multiple sizes per box. Bond with Apres Extend Gel under LED lamp — full set takes 30 minutes. Soak-off in 15 minutes. DTK stocks all Apres Gel-X shapes.
With proper prep and product choice: Gel-X (Apres) 2–3 weeks, Hard Gel 3–4 weeks, Acrylic 4 weeks+ (with fill every 2–3 weeks). All extensions need refill or removal — overgrowth past 4 weeks risks lifting, breakage, and nail bed damage.
For first-time clients: 4–6mm length (medium short). This gives the dramatic look clients want without the daily-life adjustment problems of 10mm+ extensions. Builder Gel BIAB or Gel-X medium length works perfectly.
DTK Nail Supply stocks complete extension product lines: Apres Gel-X (full size range + Extend Gel), Lavis Builder Gel BIAB, Kiara Sky Dip + Sculpting kits, KUPA tools for filing. Verified salons get Net-15 terms + free ship $100+.