Tell me about the best gel-like nail polish you’ve found

[ChocAuVin]

I’m hoping that some kindly soul can save me time and money by recommending a nail polish that gives a genuinely long-lasting finish. I know there are tonnes out there called ‘gel look / gel effect / 8 days’ wear / yadda, yadda — but has anyone used any which are actually any good and don’t require a trip to a nail bar?

Yours hopefully, Choc

Gosh I’m really no expert having had only two lamps, the very rubbish one and my current one. Current one is great and 48w and big enough to put both hands in at once, although you have to do thumb nails as a separate round.

Yeah I soak off with cotton wool soaked in acetone nail varnish remover, you can just wrap in foil but I use these clips as less fiddly. They cost around £2.

I like the Barry M Gelly Shine or whatever it’s called.
I used to get them done every 3 weeks, I had shellac, but the lady who did it for me used to drive me nuts because she was also trying to flog stuff from her other side businesses (juice plus, Avon, some others I can’t remember now) and I found it really annoying so I stopped going completely.
I’m looking at buying my own lamp and polishes etc now because when I do mine just with nail varnish they never last long. Even with base coat, 2 layers and a top coat. Plus it honestly takes me a good hour and a half to 2 hours to let each coat dry between layers before I apply the next coat... I’d rather just whack on each part and shove my hands in the lamp.

Thank you! Hmm, I may have to invest in a lamp / some kit rather than fart around with high street brands...

I’ve had a similar experience @CakeNinja

I prefer Barry m plumpy topcoat to seche vite. Easier to apply and cheaper.

Love Barry M

Hello my nails are short and break easy , would using gel nail varnish make them stronger?