Gel Polish Effects

Discover All Finishes for Your Nails

Gel polish effects are an extra layer applied over a cured gel polish color, but they can also be used on their own for a unique finish. By adding an effect coat, you can transform your base color without needing to buy an entirely new one. These gels add variety to your manicure and enhance shine and intensity. At PN Selfcare, we offer a range of gel polish effects, carefully developed to cure optimally under a LED or UV lamp.

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Gel Polish Effects

What are Gel Polish Effects?

An effect coat is a special polish layer applied over a cured gel polish color but can sometimes be used on its own for a unique finish. The effect can enhance, transform, or add a striking accent to the base color. Effects come in various forms: there are glitter or pearlescent topcoats, jelly gels and glass gels for a translucent colored look, sun shift colors that change under sunlight, chrome powder for a metallic mirror shine, and matte topcoats that give any color a velvety matte finish. Each of these variants adds a surprising and personal touch in its own way.

Our effects

Cat eye effect

A magnetic shimmer that shifts with the light, creating a sleek, feline-inspired glow. By using a magnet, the effect moves elegantly across your nails, sophisticated yet playful, and mimics the mysterious allure of a cat’s gaze.

Fairy Dust Effect

An extra layer with ultra-fine micro-glitters that boost the intensity of your color and add a soft, magical sparkle. The effect catches the light beautifully—subtle yet enchanting—giving your nails a refined, fairy dust finish.

Jelly/Transparant 


Gives a light, translucent effect where the base color remains partly visible. It creates a fresh and natural look that can be both subtle and modern.

Sun Shift Effect

This effect reacts to UV light, such as sunlight, and visibly changes color. The transformation only occurs when exposed to UV, offering a fun, surprising effect that gives your manicure a whole new look when you go outside.

Glittergloss Effect

Adds tiny glitter particles for a sparkling finish. This coat gives your nails a festive look with an extra glossy layer.

Matte Topcoat

Turns any glossy gel polish into a velvety matte finish. This topcoat gives your manicure a modern, elegant look without shine.

Salon Quality

We have designed our products specifically with DIY at home in mind, especially our Starter Kits, which contain all you need to achieve salon-quality results in the comfort of your own home.

40 Years of Experience

PN Selfcare is a sister brand to the Belgian brand ProNails, boasting over 40 years of expertise in the professional nail industry. We take pride in being 100% Belgian and our commitment to providing the best for your nails, hands, and feet.

Vegan & Cruelty Free

All our products are vegan, cruelty-free, and free of harmful ingredients. You can trust us to provide only the highest quality products for your self-care needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a gel polish effect?

A gel polish effect is a special layer applied over cured gel colour to add depth, texture, shine, or a transformative finish—such as shimmer, matte, jelly, or cat eye.

Can I use effect coats on their own?

Yes, some effect coats can be used on their own for a subtle or sheer look. However, most effects look best when applied over a cured base colour for more impact and depth.

Do I need a topcoat over the effect coat?

Yes, always seal your effect coat with a gel topcoat to protect the finish and ensure long-lasting wear.

Can I mix different effects together?

Absolutely! You can layer effects like jelly, glittergloss, or pearlescent topcoats to create unique combinations. Just cure each layer separately before adding the next.

Do effect coats change the texture of my manicure?

No, the texture stays smooth—especially when sealed with a topcoat. Even glitter effects feel polished and even after curing and cleansing.