Photo-real Salon Back to School Nails - Back to School nail art - featuring nail art, red - nail art inspiration and design ideas
Photo-real Salon Back to School Nails
Back to School Apple Nails | Salon Quality & Photo-Real
Get ready for the school year with these adorable and realistic apple-themed nails! This design features a clean, crisp apple illustration on a neutral base, perfect for showing off your school spirit with salon-quality results.
Back to School Apple Nails | Salon Quality & Photo-Real
Get ready for the school year with these adorable and realistic apple-themed nails! This design features a clean, crisp apple illustration on a neutral base, perfect for showing off your school spirit with salon-quality results.
- Beige or nude gel polish
- Red, green, brown, and white acrylic paints
- Thin nail art brush
- Top coat (gel or regular)
- Base coat (gel or regular)
- UV/LED lamp (if using gel)
- Apply a base coat and cure (if using gel). Then apply 2-3 coats of beige/nude gel polish, curing after each layer.
- Using a thin nail art brush and red acrylic paint, carefully paint the outline and body of an apple on each nail. Adjust size as desired.
- Add a green leaf to the apple using green acrylic paint and a thin brush. Create realistic shading for dimension.
- Use brown acrylic paint to create a small stem on the apple.
- Add a tiny white highlight to the apple to create a realistic shine.
- Apply a top coat and cure (if using gel). Clean up any mistakes with a nail art brush and acetone.
Expert Tip
Use a light hand and build up the layers of acrylic paint slowly to achieve a smooth and realistic finish. Practice your apple design on a piece of paper first to get the shape and shading right.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular nail polish instead of gel?
Yes, but the design may not last as long. Be sure to let each layer dry completely before applying the next.
What kind of nail art brush should I use?
A very fine, detailed nail art brush is best for creating the intricate apple design. Look for brushes labeled 'detailer' or 'liner'.
How do I prevent the paint from bleeding?
Use thin layers of paint and allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next. A gel top coat can also help seal the design.
How long will this design last?
If using gel polish, the design can last up to two weeks with proper care. Regular nail polish will typically last 3-7 days.
Can I add glitter to this design?
Yes, you can add a touch of glitter to the apple or the base color for a bit of sparkle, but use it sparingly to maintain the clean, realistic look.
Is it possible to create this design using nail stickers?
While hand-painting offers the most photorealistic effect, you could incorporate apple-themed nail stickers as a shortcut, although the finish might not be as seamless.
Aftercare Tips
- ✓Moisturize your hands regularly to keep the skin around your nails hydrated.
- ✓Avoid picking or biting your nails.
- ✓Use a gentle nail polish remover to avoid damaging your natural nails.
Safe Removal
- 1.If using gel polish, gently file the top coat to break the seal.
- 2.Soak cotton balls in acetone and place them on your nails, securing with foil. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- 3.Gently scrape off the softened gel polish with a cuticle pusher.


