Loose decorative pieces — mylar slices, iridescent mermaid pieces, holographic fragments — used to add dimensional shimmer to gel manicures. Apply over wet color gel or a clear gel anchor, then encapsulate with builder gel for flush finish.
Apply color base and cure, then apply a thin clear gel layer (don't cure yet). Use tweezers to position individual flakes onto the wet gel, or sprinkle larger amounts for full coverage. Flash cure to lock the flakes, then encapsulate with builder gel or thick top coat.
Silver, gold, multi-color, holographic, iridescent mermaid, and aurora opal effects. Pots and shaker bottles depending on flake size. Best for: glass-skin chrome looks, winter holiday menus, mermaid and aurora effects, accent nails.
Skipped the encapsulation step. Flakes laid on top of cured gel will catch on fabric and lift within days. Encapsulating in builder gel or thick top coat is what gives flake designs the 2–3 week salon wear.
Glitter has uniform shapes (hexagon, square) with consistent geometry. Flakes are irregular, broken-piece shapes that mimic glass or mylar fragments. Visually flakes look more organic and dimensional; glitter looks more uniform sparkle.
Yes — DTK Nail Supply offers wholesale pricing on Nail Flakes and a wide range of professional nail brands, with fast US shipping (orders ship within 48 hours from California). Create a free B2B account at dtknailsupply.com for the best price.