First, I would like to apologize for the gap between posts. I am doing my best to get at least one post up a week but sometimes life gets in the way. The last few weeks have been busy and tough. Hopefully, I can get back on track now!
One of the biggest debates I have witnessed in the beauty industry is what kind of nail product or process is the best. People get VERY passionate about this subject. Honestly, I don't really prefer any one style. I like different methods for different reasons. I decided to help others by sharing my experience and thoughts on these four popular methods.
1. Jamberry
Jamberry vinyl nail wraps have a large variety of designs and even partner now with Disney, Marvel, Peanuts, the NBA, the NFL, and various charities. They are fairly easy to apply once you get the hang of it. You don't have to buy all the fancy extras to apply them either, most of what you need you already have at home. Nail scissors, a nail file, a blow dryer or heat source, and your thumb are all you need to put them on.
The downside to Jamberry is that good application and a solid seal are key to getting them to last and if you have curved or domed nails like I do, it can be a constant source of annoyance. Most people have flatter nails and can apply them correctly with no problems. I, however, have them lifting by the next day. After trying every trick I could find, the only thing that solved it was putting the clear gel polish (they have a gel LED system that is pretty good) over the wraps. The main problem with this trick is it's an extra step in a manicure that should be easy and quick to do. If the look and design are more important to you, then you will LOVE Jamberry nail wraps.
The biggest pros: No drying time and tons of cute designs.
The biggest con: Having to take them off carefully and properly with remover so you don't ruin your nail surface.
Cost: Inexpensive as one sheet of nails will get you a minimum of two manicures plus leftovers for a pedicure and accent nails. The cost of one sheet is $15 for most designs.
2. Incoco
Incoco 100% nail polish appliques are different than the brands of polish wraps you pick up at the drugstore. These are higher quality and last a lot longer (up to 14 days). Because the strips are delicate, it takes some practice to put them on without ripping them. They are dry polish strips with the base coat, polish coat, and top coat built in. So like vinyl wraps, they are instantly dry. They come in a variety of designs and solids.
My experience with Incoco nail polish appliques was fairly positive. I have experienced a couple of instances with application issues, but for the most part they were easy to apply, instantly dry, didn't lift or chip, and were easy to remove. However, don't open the package until you are ready to apply as the air dries them out. This is good when it's on your nails, not so good when it's still in the package.
The biggest pro: You can easily remove with nail polish remover.
The biggest con: Delicate and easy to rip when applying.
Cost: $8 a sheet but you can find older designs for 50% off on their website.
3. Nail Polish - OPI Infinite Shine
When it comes to nail polish, my nails chip 20 min after getting a manicure. It's been a challenge finding a polish that lasts longer than 24 hours before having to reapply. Then I found OPI Infinite Shine Gel Effects Lacquer System.
OPI has always been one of my top two polish brands. When I saw the Infinite Shine line I really wanted to try it as it claims to last up to 10 days with a "high def gel shine without the light." I was skeptical but intrigued. Step 1 is a base coat/primer, Step 2 is the color, and Step 3 is a thicker gel-like top coat. This system works very well for me. For the first time, I can go 5-6 days with no chips! If I do two coats of the color and two coats of the top coat it lasts even longer.
The biggest pro: Regular polish you can do at home that lasts longer than other polishes.
The biggest con: Still smells like polish with the harsh chemicals and takes five coats total and proper application to last a week.
Cost: $10-$12 a bottle but you get many applications from each. You also need the base coat primer and top coat.
4. Gel Polish - Salon or at home
Gel Polish is easily the winner when it comes to how long it lasts. However, you need to either buy a system to use at home or go to a salon and spend a minimum of $30. But if you are going on vacation or have a big event coming up, chances are this is the method you want.
Salons are moving to less harsh chemicals and lights that are LED vs UV to protect hands from the damage UV light can do to skin. The selection of colors and designs you can get are just like a regular manicure but last longer. If you have the money and the patience, it's worth a try. If you decide to buy a system to do at home, do your research. Some gel polishes only work with certain kinds of light and some polishes are stronger than others. If you like to do your nails all of the time and prefer gel polish, it might be worth the investment to find a great system you can use at home. The downside to doing this at home is the removal. It's a lot easier to have them remove the gel polish at the salon. Trust me, I have tried it at home many times in a lot of different ways and it's always a huge production and makes a mess.
The biggest pro: Instantly dry and you get a bit of a pampering if you go to a salon.
The biggest con: The cost
Cost: $30 a pop, minimum, plus tip. If you are doing this twice a month, you are easily spending $80.
So, there you have it! Different methods to try that are good or bad for contrasting reasons. There is one new method/product that I just heard about within the last week that I have yet to try. I have been seeing many posts on Instagram from beauty bloggers that are trying and promoting them. The brand is called Impress by Kiss. They are gel polish nails that are press-on but require no glue. Similar to the old Lee Press on Nails from the 80's maybe? I find that hilarious, but they seem interesting and I am intrigued by the concept. I plan on trying them soon. Have any of you tried them?
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