I don't normally write blogs like this so bear with me.
So yesterday I splurged.
Big time.
I spent a whopping $65 at Walmart for a gel nail kit.
Ever heard of Shellac?
Well this is the less expensive (but still expensive) at home version.
I paint my nails constantly. And I'm pretty good at it if I do say so myself.
I have a steady hand for french manicures and friends often ask for my help.
Seeing as my wedding is coming up and I wanted to paint my own nails for it, I wanted a manicure that would last through our honeymoon.
I purchased the cheapest version in Walmart. SensatioNail.
See it here: http://www.sensationailgel.com/
The starter kit as well as an additional color.
Walmart also sells a Sally Hanson version for $64 for the starter kit.
Ok now to the review, I'll list pro's and cons based on my experience and you can judge from there.
Lets start with the cons:
Expense: The initial cost of this system is not quite double what a shellac job at a salon runs(about $39) but forking that over was not pleasant. Then you have to factor in that each individual nail color runs at around $10 a bottle claiming it provides 20 manicures. And the starter kit comes with the essential base/top coast, cleanser, gel primer and LED light. All of which, save for the LED light, will have to be repurchased at the end of my 10 uses.
Use: For the most part use is simple. There are videos online for those of you who are more visual and instructions in the box. However, if you do not already have a steady hand, trying to have a pretty finished look will be difficult. Also there is really no room for mistakes because this stuff is plastered on your hand for the next two weeks. And removal is a pain.
The Lamp: Well I don't have any big complaint with the LED drying/setting lamp yet, but it did feel really strange having my hand baked under a powerful light for reduced dry time and hardness. Though I did like the reduction of dry time, I must say. My fingers definitely felt tingly while setting under the light for 30-60 seconds(depending on what coat I put on the nail).That was a weird and slightly unpleasant sensation.
On to the Pro's:
Expense: Ok I realize I listed this as a con, but let me explain. Initial cost is a major bummer, but when you think about how I get 10 manicures out of the starter kit ($65) and 10 in salon manicures would have run me around $390 it seems a little more worth it. Also this system boasts that the manicure will last for up to two weeks. This means I'm not running through nail polish because it chipped while I was working with those cutie preschoolers of mine. again the cost of additional colors is about 4 more dollars than a typical nail polish color, but it's lasts sooo much longer.
Dry time: I LOVE THIS. having to paint 3 coats of anything is not my favorite but knowing that once I've popped my fingers under that blindingly blue light for a mere 60 seconds I can now touch anything without fear is amazing. I did dishes right after my first application. I am such an impatient person, so dry time is big for me.
It's at home: I do not have to carry on a conversation about who I'm dating/marrying/in to with a random Asain woman(or more often now man). I do not have to make time to go get my nails done at a salon. I also do not have to wonder where those nails tools have been and if they were sanitized properly.
It's pretty: It just is. painted nails are pretty and I'm a girly girl so I love to paint my nails.
Ok. Thats all I can think of for now. I'll add pictures of my nails at week two to let you see how it held up.
