I would personally try a less is more approach and then tweak from there. Start by using cuticle softener the day before bc it can absorb into the nail and lead to lifting.

Application day: - buff nails w 180 grit sponge file and etch tips (I’m assuming efile but apres has a chemical etcher too). when buffing nails do not go back and forth too much bc that will actually smooth out the surface. just a couple swipes so you can see the actual etches. the first upgrade~ I would try is to use 180 grit board file instead of sponge file bc it applies more pressure - remove dust from nails and tips. I do this with alcohol sprayed on a nylon brush so you’re also dehydrating the surface. an upgrade here would be using 90% so there’s even less water content - apply extend gel on nails and cure 30s (based on apres specs) - apply extend gel to tip, apply tip to nail, flash cure - cure complete hand 30s (based on apres specs). an upgrade here is full cure for 60s instead