How to DIY Your Own Gel Manicure at Home

Kelsey Nolan
Jul 13, 2014

Love the look of gel manicures but can’t commit to the cost? We feel you, girl. Good news: You can get that salon look at home for just a fraction of what you’d pay the pros. If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting a gel mani yet, the reason they’re so fab is the special formula that makes the look chip-, bite- and dent-proof for a whopping two weeks.

The gel is painted on like normal polish, then cured (heated) with a fancy UV or LED light. After, your nails are immediately dry. And not just “I-think-I-can-open-my-car-door” dry. Dry-dry. We know you’re touching up your own DIY manicure, so why not give yourself one sure to last through many a wedding updo and kitchen cleanup? We swear, gel manicures are nothing more than painting your own nails, with a few extra steps thrown in. Convinced? Let’s do this!

1. Shop Around: If you’re going all out, you’ll need an at-home gel kit. The starter systems can be expensive, but there are several in different price points. For example, the SensatioNail kit will run you about $60 while the OPI Gel Shine kit is closer to $150. We know that sounds like a lot, but depending on how many polishes or manis you currently splurge on, $150 could be an investment cheaper than a year’s worth of salon manis. (via Lulu + Sweet Pea)

2. Nail Prep: Before you begin, you’ll have to prep your nail beds like they do for you in the salon. It’s really important for the gel to properly adhere to your nails so don’t cut corners. To do this right, make sure your cuticles are pushed back and nails are (gently!) buffed. (via Nailene, image via ehow)

3. Aquaphor ($6): If you don’t have the steadiest hand, apply some Aquaphor to the cuticle and skin around the nail. That way, if you color a little outside the lines, you can wipe it right up.

4. Skip the Light: If you’re skeptical of the UV or LED lights, you can use Gelous as a final top coat. The $6 special formula eliminates the need for a curing lamp and just makes your traditional polish extra tough. Your mani will last through all four of your August weddings. (via Hairspray + High Heels)

5. Don’t Hit The Cuticle: Once you begin application, stop your polish or gel brush just short of your cuticle. By leaving a little space, you’ll prevent lifting or bubbles once the nail starts to grow out a little. (via PopSugar, image via Pretty Pretty Pretty)

6. Lay it on Thin: Make sure each layer of polish or gel is very thin — a lot of thin coats is better than fewer thick coats because thick coats take far longer to dry. (via The Novice Chef, image via, You Beauty)

7. Seal The Ends: With each finger, seal the ends of your nails to prevent chipping, and to give your nails a clean, finished look. Don’t worry about getting some on your skin — remember, that’s where Aquaphor comes in! (via A Beautiful Mess)

8. Cure Thumbs Separately: If you do decide to use a UV or LED lamp, instead of sticking your whole hand in at once, do the four fingers on each hand first, then cure your thumbs together. This way, you won’t get polish globbed on one side of your nail. (via Lulu + Sweet Pea, image via Blushing Ambition)

9. Hit the Alcohol: After you paint and gel your nails, there is a tacky layer that needs to be taken off with alcohol and a lint pad. Remember those alcohol pads that come in your first aid kit? They are the perfect tacky layer remover once you’re done curing. It skips the step of actually pouring alcohol onto lint pads and gets you out into the world that much faster. Buy a whole box of them for $2 here. (via Warfield Family)

10. Removal: And finally, once you’re ready to move on to your next gel color, don’t go to the salon and definitely, don’t peel them off. Instead, you can remove them yourself the Beyoncé way, with some cotton balls, tinfoil (or a fancy removal set for $7), and at least one episode of OITNB. (via Gal Time)

11. Lacquer Remover ($13): Instead of acetone, try specially formulated remover that nourishes skin. Double win for nails!

Have any DIY gel-mani tricks up your sleeve? Let us know in the comments!

36 Perfect Christmas Dinner Ideas, From Appetizers To Dessert

Whipping up Christmas dinner for your squad this year? If it's your first time hostessing, there's no need to panic. You can scour the internet for holiday kitchen tips and embark on a house-cleaning frenzy — or you can take comfort in the simple fact that good food creates full bellies and happy people, and that's the only goal you need to meet.

Kick back with a plate of Christmas cookies and a mug ofhot chocolate – here are 37 comforting Christmas dinner ideas and recipes, from appetizers to desserts, that will take the headache out of building your dream holiday dinner menu.

Scroll on for delicious Christmas dinner ideas!

Christmas Appetizer Ideas

Brit + Co

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese

While cradling a cocktail in one hand, an easy-to-grab appetizer is essential. These flaky, cheesy bacon twists are both easy and delicious to dunk in a three-cheese beer dip. (via Brit + Co)

Well Plated by Erin

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Bites

A red and green holiday treat without sugary sprinkles? Count us in. These phyllo shells are filled with whipped pesto cream cheese and topped with basil and sun-dried tomatoes for some yummy Christmas food. (via Well Plated by Erin)

Chef Genevieve

Cranberry Goat Cheese Balls

These cranberry goat cheese balls are the perfect balance of salty and sweet — a definite crowd-pleaser for any Christmas dinner! (via Chef Genevieve)

The Baking Fairy

Holiday Crostini Trio

Spread avocado, mascarpone, and provolone onto toasted baguette slices for a tasty appetizer, and top away for three versatile holiday food ideas that will please any palate at your holiday party. (via The Baking Fairy)

The Seasoned Mom

Honey Almond Baked Brie

Add this this gooey, sweet, and salty baked brie to your Christmas dinner menu and guests will gather around it like it's a fireplace on a cold day. (via The Seasoned Mom)

Christmas Food Ideas For Side Dishes

Brit + Co

Sesame Shrimp Pastry Puffs

The seafood lover in your home will be elated to munch on these sweet and umami-rich (thanks to the oyster sauce) sesame shrimps blanketed in buttery puff pastry. You'll definitely want to add this dish to your best Christmas recipes list! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cheesy Sweet Potato Gratin

This savory combination of sage, gruyère cheese, and heavy cream is here to make sweet potato casserole even more indulgent. This is definitely one of our favorite Christmas dinner ideas. (via Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Healthy Butternut Squash Salad

Fill your guests' bellies with the seasonal flavors of butternut squash, apple cider, and pecans. The bacon is just the icing on the cake, so to speak. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Romanesco Christmas Trees with Parmesan "Snow"

Turn Romanesco broccolis into snow-capped trees with just six ingredients in this healthy yet cheesy dish for your next party. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Nothing will warm you to your toes quite like a good soup, and whipping one up in the slow cooker can save you time, mess, and energy. This French onion creation is a perennial favorite. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Waffle Iron Latkes

These latkes make the perfect addition to any celebration, and the best part is how easy they are! From an apple butter topping to pomegranate and Greek yogurt, there's something for everyone. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cornmeal Biscuits with Cheddar, Chives, and Jalapeños

These slightly spicy biscuits are ideal for soaking up all that gravy goodness. (via Brit + Co)

The Girl on Bloor

Taco Salad

Okay, you might be thinking, "why in the world would someone serve taco salad at Christmas?" But hear us out – this recipe is full of delicious veggies, and it's just brimming with color. Keep things red and green to stay festive, or go all-out with every color of the rainbow. (via The Girl on Bloor for Brit + Co)

Rasa Malaysia

Crispy Leaf Potatoes with Rosemary Butter

If ever there were a bulletproof case for buying a mandoline, it's these potatoes, which are sliced chip-thin, layered upright in a baking dish, and gloriously bathed in salty rosemary butter. (via Rasa Malaysia)

Sarah Anderson

Cozy Pumpkin Curry

If you're looking for vegan Christmas recipes, look no further than this warming, insanely delicious, and seasonal pumpkin curry. Just leave out the fish sauce to make it fully plant-based! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

My Kitchen Love

5-Ingredient Christmas Salad

A complicated salad is the last thing you need to worry about when picking out Christmas dinner recipes. This palate-cleansing dish is simply butter lettuce, pomegranate seeds, and a white wine vinaigrette. (via My Kitchen Love)

Main Dish Ideas For A Christmas Feast

Brit + Co

If you're tasked with cooking the bird this holiday season, look no further than this foolproof roast turkey recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Baldacci Family Vineyards

Beef Short Ribs with Vegetables

Make a statement with a delicious short rib recipe that's cozy, filling, and features an unbelievable wine sauce. Everyone will be talking about it until next Christmas. (via Baldacci Family Vineyards for Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Cranberry Glazed Turkey

Make your turkey extra-special with a delicious cranberry-pomegranate glaze everyone is sure to adore. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Simply Recipes

Roasted Chicken with Carrots

For a Christmas dinner or otherwise, every home cook needs a roast chicken recipe in their back pocket. Start with this step-by-step recipe, which shows you how to stuff, truss, roast, and baste the bird until juicy and golden brown. (via Simply Recipes)

Host The Toast

Prosciutto-Wrapped Pork Loin with Apple and Rice Stuffing

This dish combines a classic holiday side with a crowd-pleasing main, and it's wrapped in prosciutto for a show-stopping finish. (via Host The Toast)

Half Baked Harvest

Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

Pasta doesn't get enough credit when it comes to holiday recipes, but nothing's cozier than a delicious bowl of warm tortellini. Except tortellini soup, that is! (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Half Baked Harvest

Roast Beef Tenderloin with Mushrooms and White Wine Cream Sauce

This melt-in-your-mouth holiday meal is cooked in one pan in under an hour. Sauté mushrooms in an oven-safe skillet, put the beef on top, roast, rest, and make a cheesy, herby cream sauce with the pan drippings. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Boulder Locavore

Turkey Roulade with Apple Cranberry Stuffing

This dish is all about texture, from the crispy bacon coat to the tender turkey in the middle and soft stuffing interior. This is one Christmas dinner recipe you won't want to miss out on. (via Boulder Locavore)

Delicious Christmas Dessert Ideas

Kurt Andre

Keto Eggnog

Got guests who are committed to the low-carb lifestyle? This keto eggnog is the perfect dessert to serve the carb-conscious. (via Annelies Zijderveld for Brit + Co)

Jessica Smith Wall

Peppermint Bark

This easy peppermint bark recipe is so simple to make, you'll have plenty of time on your hands for more ambitious endeavors — like cooking the turkey. (via Jessica Smith Wall for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Holiday Puppy Chow

Your go-to sweet treat gets a festive upgrade when you add in red and green candy! Bonus points if you have a red or green bowl to put it in. (via Brit + Co)

Brittany Griffin

Jacques Torres' Chocolate Chip Cookies

No surprise here: the secret to Torres' high-quality chocolate chip cookies is high quality ingredients, like butter, flour, and chocolate. Letting the dough age for 24 hours and sprinkling it with sea salt at the end doesn't hurt, either. (via Jacques Torres for Brit + Co)

Chris Andre

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

When it's your first year hostessing, the simpler you can keep your Christmas dinner recipes, the better. That's why we're huge fans of these 3-ingredient vegan Christmas cookies. (via From Eat Your Feelings by Lindsey Smith for Brit + Co)

Half Baked Harvest

Baked Hot Chocolate Donuts

Donuts are an all-purpose treat that can serve as Christmas breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This baked hot chocolate-inspired version doesn't require any special tools to make and is uber delicious. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Dulce de Leche Cream-Filled Churro Donuts

These six-ingredient donuts, made with biscuit dough, have a cinnamon-y exterior and a rich dulce de leche filling that pairs wonderfully with Mexican hot chocolate. (via Brit + Co)

St Pierre Bakery

Eggnog French Toast

Another recipe you can serve as a Christmas dinner or brunch is this sweet French toast. The secret to nailing that 'nog flavor is the nutmeg and vanilla combo. Yum. (via St Pierre Bakery for Brit + Co)

Justina Huddleston

Easy Vegan Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa

Give your oven and your plates a break and add this dairy-free hot chocolate to your easy Christmas dinner menu, or enjoy with Christmas waffles! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker, and let the gadget do the rest for you. (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Kurt Andre

Champagne Ice Cream

This egg-free, celebration-worthy holiday dinner idea gets its creaminess from cream cheese and, better yet, its booziness from sparkling wine. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cinnamon Roll Pecan Pie

We call this pie holiday crack for a reason (or two): the pie crust is made of mini cinnamon rolls and the pecan filling is buttery on the verge of illegal, which definitely makes it one of our favorite holiday dishes. (via Brit + Co)

Cotter Crunch

Easy Spiced Hot Fruit Bake

Hear that? That's a scoop of ice cream begging to top this sweet tray of apple, pear, cranberry, pineapple, and gluten-free dessert. (via Cotter Crunch)

Check out our newsletter for more seasonal recipes!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Justina Huddleston and Paige Johnson.

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Here's Your First Look At Emotional 'The Chosen' Season 5

The story of Jesus might be one of the most famous stories in the world — but by focusing on telling the story "through the eyes of those who knew him," The Chosen takes a whole new approach to telling these very old stories. Oh, they also crowd funded their nearly-$100 million production costs.

In the spring of 2024, when The Chosen season 4's theatrical release (which earned nearly $16 million at the box office, FYI) ended with Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday ahead of Easter, fans knew that the next installment, and the show's take on what Christians call Holy Week, would be one to remember. And yeah, based on the new The Chosen season 5 trailer, we were right.

Here's the latest news on The Chosen season 5, which creator Dallas Jenkins is also calling The Chosen: Last Supper!

What is The Chosen season 5 about?

The Chosen Season 5 Plot

Season 5 of The Chosen picks up right where season 4 leaves off: with Jesus entering Jerusalem for Passover, with "The people of Israel welcome Jesus as king while his disciples anticipate his crowning," according to the official synopsis. And when Jesus calls out the religious leaders of the day, they decide to "go to any length to ensure this Passover meal is Jesus’ last."

And the major question of the season, according to Dallas, is "What happens in the course of just a few days that causes people to go from worshipping him to wanting him killed?” he tells USA Today.

Is Jesus crucified in season 5 of The Chosen?

No, The Chosen season 5 won't feature Good Friday, or the crucifixion, because we know that's coming in The Chosen season 6. Dallas Jenkins told Deadline that the crucifixion will come in "season six and the resurrection will occur in season seven. Spoiler alert!" He also told Variety that "the entire Season 6 will cover one day, so covering one week in Season 5 feels luxurious.”

That is CRAZY! If the entire multi-episode season will revolve around Good Friday, then we could see it from a variety of characters' points of view. I've always been so heartbroken by the emotions and devastation that came after Jesus' crucifixion, and it looks like The Chosen season 6 won't shy away from that.

Dallas also reveals the season 5 finale will end right before Jesus' arrest, which came in the middle of the night between Thursday and Friday. And he promises "no one’s ever seen what we’ve got planned for that sequence." Season 3 featured Pontius Pilate's wife dreaming about the Garden and a snake, which feels like it could come full circle.

When is The Chosen season 5 coming out?

The Chosen Season 5 Release Date

The Chosen season 5 will premiere in theaters on March 27, 2025 and will release over the course of four weeks before streaming on The Chosen app where viewers can watch it for free.

Who's in the cast?

5&2 Studios/The Chosen

The Chosen Season 5 Cast

The cast of The Chosen season 5 includes Jonathan Roumie, Shahar Isaac, Paras Patel, Elizabeth Tabish, Noah James, George H. Xanthis, Abe Bueno-Jallad, Jordan Walker Ross, Giavani Cairo, Joey Vahedi, Alaa Safi, Reza Diako, Austin Reed Alleman, Vanessa Benavente, Lara Silva, Luke Dimyan, Amber Shana Williams, and Yasmine Al-Bustami.

How many seasons of The Chosen are being made?

There will be a total of seven seasons of The Chosen. Since season 5 is coming out in 2025 after season 4 in 2024, we can expect season 6 in 2026 and season 7 in 2027.

Why did Philip leave The Chosen?

If you watch seasons 2 and 3 of The Chosen and then start season 4, you might realize one of the disciples looks different. That's because Yoshi Barrigas (who originally played Philip) ended up leaving the show, and was replaced by Reza Diakos.

"For professional and personal reasons I will no longer be a part of The Chosen," he said on Instagram at the time. "First and foremost I want to thank you, the fans. Our connection and your constant showering of love and support has seeded me with a warmth that will forever nourish me. Meeting you out in the world and hearing how the show has personally enriched your lives continues to be the connective tissue between me and the good folk of this world. You inspire me to continue to die to self and discover The Way. I hope you continue to follow my journey. I have a lot more to share with you."

Check back here for the latest news on The Chosen season 5! And read up on the other great TV shows coming in 2025.

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16 Thanksgiving Soup Recipes To Ease Into The Feast This Year

Regardless of family traditions, a hot and cozy soup is a great way to kick off a giant Thanksgiving feast. Whether you're partial to fall flavors like squash and carrot or are seeking a more unique holiday recipe, there's a soup out there that's bound to complement your meal. But don't forget — you can experiment when it comes to presentation and serve a soul-warming soup in small glasses or even clean candle votives as an amuse-bouche before the big meal. Ahead, discover 16 soupshooter recipes that'll make your Thanksgiving extra tasty.

16 tasty Thanksgiving soup recipes you and your family will fall in love with

French Onion Soup

Brit + Co

You can't go wrong with French Onion soup any day but especially not on Thanksgiving! The bubbling and golden layer of cheese makes this feel like a luxurious dish everyone at the table will enjoy.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Clean Cuisine

This soup is loaded up with vegetables, making it a healthier option for your Thanksgiving spread It's super simple to whip together but is extremely flavorful.

Roasted Garlic Sage Pesto Pumpkin Soup with Spicy Fried Pumpkin Seeds

Half-Baked Harvest

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it's seriously adorable too! It's rich and flavorful, thanks to sage, roasted garlic, pistachios, and blue cheese.

Cider Cheese Soup Shooters in Mini Pretzel Bread Bowls

How Sweet Eats

Instead of typical glassware, these cheese soup shooters are served in mini pretzel bread bowls, making them extra unique and fun. What more can you ask for than cheesy soup, pretzel bread, and bacon all in one bite?

Creamy Tomato Soup Shooters With Grilled Cheese Sticks

How Sweet Eats

You cannot go wrong with a mini grilled cheese atop a creamy tomato soup shooter. Warning: Your guests *will* ask for seconds.

Creamy Pumpkin Soup Shooters

Dine & Dish

This rich take on pumpkin soup is guaranteed to make you feel especially cheery on Thanksgiving.

Asparagus Soup

The Realistic Nutritionist

Rather than roasting up heaps of asparagus for Thanksgiving dinner, try puréeing the tasty veggie side into a scrumptious soup. The natural and super bold shades of green will pair nicely with the festive vibes. Garnish it with a piece of bread for a truly beautiful small bite.

Roasted Cauliflower Soup Shooters

Flavour & Savour

Roasted cauliflower is DELICIOUS on its own, but it's even better in drinkable form. This recipe is customizable toppings-wise but incredibly creamy as far as texture is concerned. Garnish it with a breadstick or relish the roasted cauliflower flavor sans bread. Your choice, reader.

Potato Leek Soup

The Edgy Veg

Careful, this vegan potato leek soup might just steal the whole show! It takes less than 50 minutes to make and is hearty and creamy.

Cream of Pumpkin Soup with Maple Pecans

Half-Baked Harvest

This creamy soup is perfect for Thanksgiving and the added maple pecans on top are *chef's kiss*!

Vegan Soup Shooter Trio With Crispy Sunchoke Chips

Tuscan Foodie

For those who value a tasting *experience,* a trio of soup shooters like this one is the answer. It includes roasted carrot, broccoli-leek, and a roasted tomato-fennel soup. So many options.

Potato and Blue Cheese Soup Shots With Garlic Butter Ryes

The Passionate Cook

Made with gorgonzola cheese and potatoes, this creamy soup is topped with a mini rye toast that's great for dipping.

Spicy Carrot and Lentil Soup

Crowded Kitchen

This soup is recipe is packed with flavor and spice, thanks to cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and harissa paste! It is also vegetarian and can be made vegan with a simple swap to nondairy yogurt.

Baked Potato Shooters With Bacon, Crema, Cheese, and Chives

Taste With the Eyes

So, take a baked potato with all the fixin's and turn it into a soup, and you've got this Baked Potato Shooters recipe. Bacon? Check. Crema? Check. Cheese and chives? Double check. Heaven, is that you?

Harvest Minestrone Soup

Vikalinka

This Italian soup is full of vegetables and herbs that make it a comforting and wholesome soup for Thanksgiving!

Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup

Vikalinka

This chicken and sweetcorn soup is perfect as a Thanksgiving appetizer because it is on the lighter side. It is packed with flavor, though, and is a twist on a classic egg drop soup.

Want more Thanksgiving soup recipe inspo? Follow us on Pinterest and check out our online cooking classes!

This post has been updated.

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