just like the nail salon [SEP] works just like ones in the nail salon i am sooo happy to not have to go to the nail salon again make sure you rub them down with alcohol after so they do not feel sticky i also suggest getting a gel polish starter kit with it so you have a base and top coat i also found it works best if i buff my nail bed and wipe them down with polish remover first to remove oils and to have a rough surface to stick to