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Syreeta Aaronis an educator for LeChat Nails, the company behind cutting-edge products such as the Gelée Powder Gel System, Perfect Match Gel Polish & Nail Lacquer, and thermal-activated Mood changing polishes. Since the directions are somewhat confusing, you'll want to read through all the steps before getting started. But while this wasn't the most user-friendly set we tested, we think it'll be easier after the first go-around. This article was updated in October 2022 to include only products we believe meet the FDA’s Cosmetic Labeling Requirements, as vetted by the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab. We also included updated information on safety criteria to keep in mind. From handmade pieces to vintage treasures ready to be loved again, Etsy is the global marketplace for unique and creative goods.

Plus, it'll leave your nails shiny and smooth for up to two weeks. It's worth noting that because there's no curing process involved, the final result isn't as hard as a typical gel manicure. The reviewer didn't seem to mind, though, given that the polish stayed intact without it. As mentioned above, Aaron stresses the importance of not peeling off the polish, as this will peel away layers of the nail plate and end up damaging the nail. Start by filling the top of the nail until you see a white, chalky color, she says; this indicates you’ve filed through the topcoat.
Best for Damaged Nails
Did you notice theByrdie Verified seal of approvalat the top of this story? This seal means that our team has researched and tested every product on this list using a unique methodology that’s designed to focus on what our readersreallywant to know—and to deliver insights that you can’t find anywhere else. Occasionally, beauty brands and PR agencies will send us samples for coverage consideration, but our thoughts and opinions are fully our own.
She was pleased with the results of her gel nails, commenting on the stunning color and smooth, exceptionally shiny finish. Unfortunately, they didn't last the full two weeks and ended up chipping after about six days. While we wish it had better staying power, this feature-rich set is an excellent value. Once cured, our tester said her nails were hard and smooth without any tackiness. The pro-level polish and top coat deliver extra-shiny, streak-free results, though she noticed one small bubble.
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Some acrylic, gel, and powder polishes can wreak havoc on your nails. It doesn't contain any harsh chemicals—plus it's formulated with calcium to help strengthen your nails. Keep reading for the entire list of best nail dip powder kits along with all the important info you need to know about choosing a nail dip powder kit, using one at home, and what to expect from your dip powder manicure. Whether you’re a pro or a rookie, or are looking for something portable or affordable, there’s an option out there for you. Read on for our top picks for gel nail kits, along with application advice from experts. Mekita Rivas is a freelance beauty writer at Cosmopolitan with three years of experience writing beauty stories, like cellulite creams and the best eyelash glues.

Whether you love a sheer, neutral mani or a vibrant neon-colored one, there's a nail dip powder kit for you. Be sure to choose a kit that has colors that fit your vibe and aesthetic, and then scan the customer reviews for real-life pics! NGL, when it comes to the finish, dip powder manicures lean more matte than super shiny. If that's not your vibe, you'll still love this at-home dip powder kit anyway. It comes with a glossy top coat that leaves behind an extra-shiny finish on your nails.
Essie Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish
Love the long-lasting durability of gel polish but hate the smell and the petrochemical compounds typically found in them? Its gel polish and top coat contain a soybean oil derivative as the main ingredient which is described as low odor. The brand’s at-home manicure system also includes a mini nail lamp, emery board, buffer, and alcohol and acetone remover pads. Users can achieve an enviable manicure in 30 minutes or less, and it generally lasts seven to 14 days.
Although it might not be ideal for folks who work with their hands, we still think it's a good choice for those interested in exploring at-home light-cured nails. She said her nails were a little tacky after placing them under the lights for the recommended two minutes. She used the purple-to-white ombré hue and loved the overall results. With some practice, she thinks they'll continue to look even better.
Gurung has reached for CND’s shellac products for years because of their high quality and great coverage. She notes, “You don’t have to file the top layer of the gel, all you have to do is wrap it in an aluminum foil for mins and it just falls off in one piece.” For that reason, she notes it would be great for at-home use. We can’t get rid of all of them, but the worst offenders have been removed from these dreamy shades. Aside from being a quick and convenient way to get a gel mani at home, the results speak for themselves.
Trying your hand at a DIY gel manicure might seem daunting, but with the right tools and products, we promise it's totally doable. Moreover, doing your nails at home will save you significant time and money. A lover of nail polish, gel and otherwise, she wrote this article based on the findings from Wnek's report and by gathering additional recommendations from prior Beauty Lab evaluations. Finally, one for the people who don't really care about thecoloraspect of their manicures, they really just want nails that are strong, long, and well cared for. If you're in love with a clean and simple look, you'll love the clear and simple Polisher featured here; it's meant to scrape up gunk from the top of your nail.
Our tester said the gel dried quickly with the included lamp and was satisfied with the finished results. (And she thinks her manicure would look even better if she used thinner coats of lacquer and took her time with the application.) Though the brand promises up to 14 days of wear, it began chipping after about seven days. While it may not last as long as a salon mani, you can expect it to hold up longer with regular polish.
It's got every must-have to perfectly prime your nail beds for the polish of your choosing. Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. The key to not damaging your nails while removing your powder mani is being super gentle. Cosmopolitan participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.
Despite the process taking a little longer to ensure each nail gets enough curing time, the finished product makes the entire process worth it. Finally, Aaron recommends looking for a kit that comes with colors you’ll want to wear. Some kits will only come with one or two shades, while pricier ones may contain an entire set. There’s no need to invest in a larger kit if you won’t wear most of the shades, so look for one that contains a variety of colors you love.
"You shouldn't mix products or lamps because some of them have a higher or lower output which can cause under- or over-curing of the gel," she explains. The kit comes with the full suite of Gelish must-haves, from its prep formulas pH Bond (which removes excess oils from the nail for a longer-lasting finish) and Foundation . It also comes with Top it Off, Gelish's high-shine top coat that the brand claims "will not dull, chip or peel," a cleanser to remove any lingering sticky residue and Nourish cuticle oil to finish it all off. If you’re new to manicure sets, know that they can be as minimal or equipped as you want, like a set that has professional-level gel manicure tools , or a set with a chic glass nail file and a full set of nail polishes. So if you’re like me, and you’d rather do the work at home than trek to the salon, know that you can definitely get a screenshot-worthy finish with one of my favorite manicure sets below.
For someone looking to dip their toes into doing their own gel manicures, this kit is an excellent place to start. The comprehensive set is equipped with all of the essentials you need to prep your nails and craft unique designs from the comfort of your home. With six bottles of regular gel polish and two bottles of temperature-changing ombre polish, you'll never get bored with your nails. The instructions were somewhat confusing at first, but once she got it figured out, our tester said this kit was easy to use. She appreciated that it came with all the essentials for an at-home gel manicure, but the polish itself wasn't dry after the recommended 60 seconds under the light.

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