The Complete Guide to Cat Eye Gel Polish & Magnetic Nail Art
Cat eye gel polish has transformed modern nail art by creating mesmerizing, light-reflective designs with depth and movement. From luxury salons to viral Instagram trends, magnetic nail art has become one of the most requested premium nail services worldwide.
What Makes Cat Eye Gel Polish Special?
Cat eye gel polish contains magnetic metallic particles that respond to magnetic fields. When a magnet is held near the uncured polish, these particles align to create stunning light-reflective patterns resembling the shimmering depth of a cat’s eye gemstone. The result is a three-dimensional effect that shifts and sparkles as the nail moves, creating an optical illusion that captivates from every angle.

This technique has become a staple in professional nail art education and is widely taught in specialized courses where artists learn magnetic control, pattern creation, and advanced design methods.
How to Use Cat Eye Gel Polish?
- Proper nail preparation is the foundation of successful cat eye nail art. Begin by removing surface shine, cleaning off dust, and dehydrating the nail plate.
- Apply a nail primer and allow it to air dry. Acid-free primer is recommended for gentle and effective adhesion. Once dry, apply a base coat and cure under a UV or LED lamp.
- Apply one even layer of cat eye polish and do not cure it yet. Hold the magnet approximately 1-2mm above the nail surface without touching it. As the magnetic particles move into place, they create the desired effect, then cure immediately to lock in the design.
- Finish with a top coat for long-lasting shine and depth.

For enhanced contrast and stronger magnetic effects, especially with 9D Cat Eye Magnetic Gel & Smart 9D Gel, a black base coat is recommended.
Once you’ve mastered the application, the next step is understanding how different magnets influence the final design.
Understanding the Magnetic Tools by Brunson
When working with Cat Eye Gel Polish, the magnet you choose is just as important as the gel itself. Professionally engineered cat eye magnets – such as those offered by Brunson – are designed to interact precisely with magnetic pigments, ensuring consistent, salon-grade results. Each magnet shape produces a different effect – from clean shimmer lines to decorative accents, making tool selection essential for professional outcomes.
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Choosing the Right Magnetic Tools
The cat eye magnet you select is equally important as the gel polish itself. Different magnet shapes and configurations produce distinct effects, allowing you to achieve precise control over your final design. A high-quality magnet is required for a magical result.
Single-Purpose Magnets
- Cylindrical Cat Eye Nail Magnet Pen: This precision tool offers focused control, making it ideal for detailed work around the cuticle area and nail tips. The pen-style grip provides excellent handling for intricate designs.
- Heart-Shaped Cat Eye Magnet: Perfect for romantic designs or themed nail art, this magnet creates heart-style accent lines and focal points that add a sweet, decorative touch to any manicure.
- Flower Cat Eye Nail Magnet: This specialty design magnet produces floral or decorative shimmer shapes, adding artistic flair that goes beyond standard linear effects.

Multi-Function Magnetic Tools
- 4PCS Cat Eye Nail Magnet Stick: A collection of basic magnets ideal for experimenting with different effects. This starter set helps you discover which patterns work best for your creative vision.
- 5-in-1 Cat Eye Nail Magnet: This multifunctional tool houses several magnetic patterns in one convenient stick, allowing varied cat eye effects with quick pattern changes mid-manicure.
- 3-in-1 Cat Eye Nail Magnet: A compact tool featuring three different magnetic patterns. Perfect for creating classic lines, gentle curves, and soft shimmer effects without needing to switch between multiple tools.
- 6-in-1 Nail Magnet Tool: The ultimate versatile option with even more pattern possibilities, suitable for beginners learning the basics and advanced nail artists pushing creative boundaries.

Dual-Ended Options
- Y-Shaped Double Head Cat Magnet: Two different magnetic ends in one tool streamline your workflow, eliminating the need to reach for multiple magnets during application.
- Double Head Magnet Stick for 3D Nail Art: Designed specifically for creative three-dimensional accents and layered effects that add extra dimension to your designs.
- Double Head Cat Eye Nail Art Stick: Quick-swap magnetic ends let you alternate between effects seamlessly while working, maintaining your creative flow.

Different magnet shapes create different visual effects, from classic lines to decorative accents. Learning how to control these tools effectively is a key part of professional nail art education.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cat Eye Results
- Control the distance: Hold the magnet 1-2mm above the uncured gel for optimal particle movement.
- Adjust the angle: Slight tilting or gentle rocking creates depth and dimensional shifts.
- Work before curing: Magnetic particles continue moving until cured – take your time refining the effect.
- Layer strategically: Creating magnetic effects on thin layers builds extraordinary depth and richness.

Professional & Safe Formulation
Quality matters in nail products. Professional-grade Brunson cat eye gel polish is TPO-free and HEMA-free, making it a safer choice for nail professionals and clients. The formula is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, developed to meet professional salon standards while supporting conscious beauty practices.
Trusted by nail artists across the UAE and GCC, Brunson continues to support professionals and learners with high-performance products, reliable tools, and advanced nail art education.
The Future of Magnetic Nail Art
Magnetic nail art is evolving into a premium category within modern nail services. New formulations are delivering stronger magnetic effects, richer color depth, and longer wear, while advanced magnet designs allow for more refined and controlled results.
As trends move toward layered finishes, chrome combinations, and dimensional effects, the demand for precision and consistency continues to rise. In the future, mastering magnetic nail art will rely not only on quality products but on professional knowledge and structured training that keeps artists aligned with industry standards.

Explore all cat eye nail art on our Instagram page.
Cat eye gel polish is no longer just a trend – it’s a professional skill. With the right formulation, precision magnets, and structured education, magnetic nail art becomes a premium service clients return for.
Master magnetic nail design with professional tools, expert techniques, and advanced nail art education – where precision meets creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is cat eye gel polish part of nail art?
Yes, Cat eye gel polish is a form of magnetic nail art that creates dimensional, light-reflective designs beyond standard gel polish. It is widely used in modern nail artistry and taught in professional nail art education, including Brunson’s Basic Nail Art Course and Full Nail Art Course, where artists learn magnetic control, pattern creation, and advanced techniques.
Do we need a magnet for cat eye gel polish?
A magnet is essential for creating the cat eye effect. Cat eye gel polish contains magnetic pigments that respond to a magnet, allowing you to form lines, waves, starbursts, or gemstone-style highlights before curing.
Does the magnet change the final look of cat eye gel polish?
yes, The magnet controls the direction, shape, and intensity of the shimmer, creating effects such as lines, waves, starbursts, or gemstone highlights.
Why Cat Eye Nail Art Requires Professional Training?
Magnetic control is a technical skill
- Small mistakes are highly visible
- Clients expect consistency
- Structured training saves time and product
Professional nail art education transforms magnetic nail art from experimentation into mastery.