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Nail Gels I’d Use

Posted by Caroll Alvarado on 24-09-2026

Beauty Hacks

Builder and structure gels can completely change the way a manicure wears and looks, especially when the natural nail needs extra support.

These two options approach the job differently, so I would choose between them depending on whether I want a transparent base, a softer semi-sheer result or a more decorative pink finish.

Safari Shine 03

Safari by Merenkova Shine 03 is the option I would reach for when I want the structure product itself to contribute to the finished look. The shade appears soft and neutral rather than completely transparent, which makes it useful for manicures where I want the nail bed to look more polished without adding a separate colour layer. It has the kind of understated finish that works particularly well with short or medium-length nails, minimalist designs and natural-looking manicures.

American Creator Framework Clear

American Creator Framework Gel Clear is the most straightforward structural option of the three. Because it is clear, I would use it when reinforcement and shape are more important than adding colour, especially underneath another gel shade or nail art. It also gives more freedom when I want the final manicure colour to come entirely from the layers applied on top rather than from the builder itself.

For me, the choice comes down to how much colour I want from the structure layer. Safari works when I want the builder to become part of the finished manicure, while American Creator Clear is the most flexible base when I want complete freedom with colour and design.