The secret’s out: I’ve done my own gel nails at home for years. I’m not talking about a manicure with regular nail polish or the pseudo-gel polish alternatives out there. I’m talking about doing a professional-quality gel (or shellac) manicure with the exact products that are used at your salon. This is not a drill.

With the right technique and a little patience, you can truly get the same high quality, long-lasting result at a fraction of the price, without leaving your home. Since we’re all social distancing right now, I wanted to break down everything you need to achieve a gel manicure and I promise, anyone can do this! Below I’m detailing every product and trick for achieving a perfect, healthy, long-lasting manicure (or pedicure) at home so we can all save some money and love our nails (whether we’re self-quarantined or not).