If you're that kind of person, you've probably tried gel polish or shellac. This type of mani lasts upwards of two weeks on your nails, and keeps them happily hardened while its on.
The problem with them is that they can be very pricey. Even though you only have to go every two weeks, you still have to fork over a wad of cash you may not have. Luckily, there's at least one product available that I can personally vouche for as an alternative to pricey salon gels!
Today, I'm reviewing an at-home gel system from SensatioNAIL. I was provided with the Pink Chiffon Starter Kit ($59.99) and an additional color of my choosing. I chose White Lily ($11.99), with the intention of creating a French Manicure to test with.
I've listed the prices already so you won't encounter any sticker shock. Gel polishes are always more expensive than their lacquer counterparts, usually about 50% more. So don't be alarmed at $11.99 per color...it's actually a great price!
The Starter Kit comes with literally everything you need to get started and complete the manicure properly, including an LED lamp! Their LED lamp is the cutest, most portable lamp I've used. It still requires an outlet, but beyond that, it's amazing. The longest cure time for an individual layer is 60 seconds, at which point the light shuts off automatically. For other layers, you only need 30 seconds, and for those times, there's also a little beeping indicator that you hear after 30 seconds. The instructions are also incredibly clear, and if followed properly, will lead you to amazing results.
After following the instructions and applying the look, I chose to test this over my break in Southern California. I was plenty busy with cooking, days at the beach, wrapping and ripping open presents, so my hands took about an average beating. The pictures below are ten days apart.
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| Day One |
