30 day hard challenge

7 BEST BIRTHDAY NAIL SET IDEAS WITH LASTING QUALITY

Calling all birthday nail enthusiasts with a birthday coming up! Ready to ditch the chip worries and rock a stunning manicure that lasts? Look no further! We’ve curated 7 of the best birthday nail set ideas specifically designed for birthday nails, ensuring both eye-catching designs and long-lasting wear. Get ready to celebrate your special day with fabulous nails that won’t quit!

OUR TOP PICKS

BEST POLISH: ESSIE GEL COUTURE LONGWEAR NAIL POLISH + TOP COAT KIT

If you’re aiming for a gel manicure look without the UV drying light, Essie Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish is an excellent choice. This polish, which has a thick, non-dripping formula, applies like regular polish and dries to a hard, glossy finish that mimics a professional salon manicure. We wore these nails for over two weeks and experienced minimal chipping, comparable to professional gel manicures. Removal is straightforward with acetone, leaving your nails healthy and undamaged.

While lamp-cured gel polishes dry faster, Essie Gel Couture takes about 15 minutes to fully dry. However, its staying power is impressive, and we loved the vibrant colors and the well-preserved condition of our nails after removal. If you want a gel-like manicure without the need for a UV lamp, this polish is the best option.

  • Shades: 1
  • Dry Time: 15 minutes
  • Lamp Included: No

BEST FOR TRAVEL: LE MINI MACARON LE MAXI DELUXE GEL MANICURE SET

The Le Mini Macaron compact kit is ideal for on-the-go manicures. We gave it top marks for ease of use, drying time, finished appearance, and nail health post-removal. Despite gel kits often being intimidating for beauty newbies, this kit from Le Mini Macaron is user-friendly and fun, even for beginners. The gel lacquer dries quickly with the included LED lamp, leaving nails glossy and hard in just one minute. However, the travel-friendly lamp is small, so you’ll need to dry your thumb separately.

While we loved the quick-drying, glossy finish, the polish began peeling within a few days and was completely gone soon after. Longer-lasting results might be achieved by using a nail-prepper product, applying thinner coats, or drying nails for a longer time. Despite the short staying power, our nails were not damaged, making this kit an excellent travel choice.

  • Shades: 2
  • Dry Time: 1 minute
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST VALUE: GELLEN GEL NAIL POLISH KIT

For a more comprehensive option, the Gellen Gel Starter Kit is a great choice. We awarded this kit perfect scores for ease of use and were impressed with the 12 included bottles of polish, various nail embellishments, grooming tools, and UV lamp. The instructions recommend drying each coat for 60 seconds under the light, but we found our nails were still tacky after a minute. Extending the drying time to 90 seconds yielded better results.

Once painted and dried, we loved the appearance of our gel manicures. The colors were vibrant, and the polish dried smooth with a glossy finish. However, the lacquer began to chip around day six and was completely peeled off by day eight, making soak-off removal unnecessary. While we wish the polish lasted longer, this feature-rich kit offers great value.

  • Shades: 12
  • Dry Time: 90 seconds
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST FOR BEGINNERS: SALLY HANSEN SALON PRO GEL STARTER KIT

If you’re new to gel nails, Sally Hansen’s beginner-friendly Salon Starter Kit is perfect for you. This kit earned a perfect score for ease of use, thanks to its simple three-step process and lightning-fast drying time. Curing your nails with the included LED lamp takes only about 30 seconds.

Once dried, our nails were smooth, super shiny, and hard without any stickiness. Although the kit comes with only one color, additional bottles can be purchased separately. Despite the promise of up to two weeks of wear, our manicures didn’t last very long. The gel began to peel when we cleaned around the house, even with gloves on. This kit may not be ideal for those who work with their hands, but it’s a great option for anyone looking to try gel nails at home.

  • Shades: 1
  • Dry Time: 30 seconds
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST BUDGET: SENSATIONAIL GEL STARTER KIT

Looking for a budget-friendly option? The SensatioNail Gel Starter Kit is a solid choice. The instructions can be a bit confusing, so we recommend reading through them thoroughly before starting. While this kit wasn’t the easiest to use initially, the process should be smoother the second time around. We were pleasantly surprised by how quickly the lacquer dried with the included LED lamp, but for the best results, we suggest applying thinner layers of paint and taking your time.

The brand claims up to two weeks of wear, but we noticed chipping after about a week—slightly longer than regular polish but not as durable as a professional gel manicure. Although this affordable kit comes with only one polish color, you can purchase additional bottles individually to expand your collection.

  • Shades: 1
  • Dry Time: 3 minutes
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST FOR NAIL CARE: RED CARPET MANICURE PRO 45 STARTER KIT

If you prioritize skincare, it’s important to care for your nail beds and cuticles too. This comprehensive kit includes everything from cuticle oil to sealing top and base coats, along with cleansers, foil wraps, cuticle pushers, and more. The gel hardened into a shiny gloss on our nails in just 45 seconds and stayed smooth with minimal chipping for nearly two weeks.

We did notice that the brushes were a bit uneven and frayed, making it challenging to cover all the edges perfectly. However, with a steady hand, we applied the glossy shades, confident that our nails and skin were protected. After removing the polish two weeks later, we were pleased to find our nails as strong as ever.

  • Shades: 1
  • Dry Time: 45 seconds
  • Lamp Included: Yes

BEST OVERALL: MOROVAN NAIL KIT

Morovan’s Poly Gel Kit earned perfect scores for drying time, finished look, staying power, ease of removal, and nail integrity post-removal. We only marked it down for ease of use due to a slight learning curve. However, the instructions were thorough and easy to follow, and the illustrated how-to booklet was very helpful.

This set includes everything needed for a professional-level manicure, plus some fun embellishments and extras. It comes with eight polish shades, including six solid opaques and two ombrés. The kit also includes a primer, a dehydrator, a base coat, a top coat, an LED lamp, and various tools for grooming your nails and cuticles.

The most challenging component was the nail extensions, as the kit includes extension gel and shaping foil to help you create your desired length and shape. Once the gel was applied, the drying process was smooth and straightforward.

After two weeks, only two extensions had fallen off, and the stunning color and shine remained. When it was time to remove the polish, the gel came off easily with the help of a scraping tool. If you’re up for the challenge of DIY gel extensions and want a long-lasting manicure, this kit is an excellent choice.

  • Shades: 8
  • Dry Time: 2 minutes
  • Lamp Included: Yes

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING AN AT-HOME GEL KIT

STAYING POWER

One of the main attractions of at-home gel nails is their promise of professional-level longevity. The products, tools, and formulas should provide similar results to what you’d get at a salon. However, many kits we tried didn’t last more than a week. Various factors can influence this, including improper use of the kits, daily wear and tear on your nails, and not thoroughly removing natural oils from your nails before painting. For best results, carefully read all instructions and follow the manufacturer’s nail care suggestions, and consider wearing reusable gloves when cleaning and doing dishes.

INCLUDED SHADES

While some at-home gel kits come with multiple polish shades, many starter sets only include one or two. However, additional colors are often available for individual purchase, allowing you to gradually expand your collection with shades you’ll actually use. An extra bottle of white nail polish is great for classic French manicures and the trendy “glazed donut” nails.

CURING LAMP

Most kits come with a UV or LED lamp, which is essential for curing and drying gel polish. As celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein explains, “Gel polish needs a UV light to cure/dry and provides a chip-free manicure that lasts much longer than regular nail polish.” Depending on the lamp’s bulbs and wattage, each coat will take anywhere from 30 seconds to three minutes to cure. Most of our top picks, except for Essie’s Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish, include an LED/UV lamp.

REMOVAL

Gel manicures typically require soak-off removal. This involves soaking 10 cotton pieces in pure acetone, placing them on your nails, wrapping them in foil, and letting them sit for about 15 minutes. After soaking, the polish usually scrapes off easily. If you prefer not to make multiple trips to the store, consider the Red Carpet Manicure Pro 45 Gel Starter Kit, which includes foil wraps, gel polish remover, and more.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it! With these seven fantastic nail set ideas, you can celebrate your birthday with stunning nails that last. Whether you crave a classic French manicure, a touch of playful glitter, or a bold, eye-catching design, there’s a perfect option for you. So go forth, embrace your beautiful nails, and rock a birthday mani that shines as bright as you do!

30 TATTOOS OF ZODIAC SIGNS YOU’RE DESTINED TO LOVE

The youth today often have a keen interest in their zodiac signs. The choice to ink zodiac tattoos on their bodies is a clear expression of this fascination. Regardless of your zodiac sign, each tattoo brings forth unique ideas and signifies your personal traits in a tasteful and distinctive manner. If you wish to delve deeper and explore zodiac tattoo designs, check out the 30 ideas in our article. Read on!

MIXTURE OF ELEMENTS ZODIAC TATTOO

Creating a design for a zodiac sign offers numerous possibilities, so why not blend them all together? This exquisite Pisces tattoo incorporates the fundamental symbol of the sign, a depiction of the two fish, and additional related imagery. These elements are seamlessly connected with dots and borders resembling a constellation, resulting in a harmonious and visually captivating design.

FLOWER POWER ZODIAC TATTOO

Infusing a zodiac symbol with the essence of a favorite flower is a splendid means to infuse vibrant hues. In this rendition, lively yellow daisies and gracefully entwined vines are incorporated to imbue a fiery Leo symbol with added depth and dimension.

SUPER SIMPLE ZODIAC TATTOO

Tiny tattoos showcasing zodiac signs embody both subtlety and charm. This compact and straightforward Sagittarius symbol, delicately designed, finds its perfect placement on the ankle or wrist. The understated nature of this tattoo adds to its charm, creating a small yet distinctive choice that captures the essence of the Sagittarius zodiac sign.

TATTOOS OF LEO ZODIAC SIGNS

Bringing together two elements from the same zodiac sign gives rise to a distinctive creation, as showcased in this Leo forearm tattoo. The elaborate details of the lion harmonize with the uncomplicated depiction of the constellation, resulting in a design that is both timeless and uniquely captivating.

BEHIND-THE-EAR ZODIAC TATTOO

Exemplifying understated elegance, the zodiac symbol discreetly nestled behind the ear showcases a refined charm. This Virgo tattoo, strategically placed for subtlety, masterfully delivers a statement with quiet sophistication. The delicate and inconspicuous positioning adds to the allure, creating a tattoo that speaks volumes in its subtleness.

STAR STUDDED ZODIAC TATTOO

Radiating a bold and edgy aura, this Aries tattoo is elevated by encircling stars and enriched with captivating 3D effects, imparting an additional layer of personality and dynamism. The celestial elements surrounding the Aries symbol contribute to a sense of cosmic energy, creating a tattoo that not only embodies the assertive spirit of Aries but also captivates with its visually striking and dimensional allure

VIBRANT ZODIAC TATTOO

The appeal of a zodiac tattoo by incorporating favorite colors. The infusion of vibrant blues and greens adds a lively touch to the Aquarius symbol, creating a vivid and eye-catching design. The cool hues are particularly fitting for water or air signs, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

SKELETON TATTOO

For those who harbor a profound affection for Hot Topic, integrating a skeleton hand into your tattoos is a fitting choice. It’s not just a phase, mom, but a lasting expression that resonates with a love for unique and edgy styles.

DAINTY CONSTELLATION TATTOO

Elegant tattoos, such as this one, find their perfect place on the hands or subtly tucked behind the ear, offering a delicate charm for that quietly confident Scorpio you may be acquainted with.

MATCHING SNAKE TATTOOS

Transforming snakes into the embodiment of your zodiac sign is a creative endeavor that comes with relative ease. Yet, the intriguing challenge lies in the delicate task of preventing these serpentine symbols from gracefully slipping away, adding an extra layer of complexity to the artistic process.

SCORPIO TATTOO

Always keep in mind the symbiotic relationship between your daily cravings and the scorpion etched onto your body. Just as you may yearn for a well-deserved cocktail at the end of a prolonged day, the Scorpion, a permanent and symbolic companion, might also metaphorically partake in the idea of a refreshing libation. This nuanced connection blends the personal desire for relaxation with the enduring representation of the scorpion, creating a unique narrative within the inked artwork on your skin.

CLOUD ZODIAC TATTOO

If you find yourself diligently reading your horoscope each day, even if the exact implications elude you, then this particular tattoo might resonate with you. It encapsulates the devotion to astrological insights, suggesting a connection beyond the clear comprehension of the daily predictions. The ink becomes not just a mere representation of a zodiac sign but a testament to the intrigue, curiosity, and perhaps the delightful mystery that comes with embracing the celestial guidance offered by horoscopes.

ABSTRACT ZODIAC TATTOO

There’s an undeniable allure to this crab claw adorned with eyes, capturing our attention in a way that’s hard to ignore. However, what truly stands out is the persistent pinch it seems to deliver, almost as if it has a mischievous personality of its own. The eyes add an element of intrigue, creating a dynamic where the tattoo seems to have a playful and interactive quality, as if it’s not merely an inked design but a whimsical companion that keeps us on our toes. 

SUBTLE ZODIAC TATTOO

Your indecisive nature, especially if you’re a Gemini, by incorporating a bit of everything into your next tattoo session. Much like the varied elements of your zodiac sign, let your ink reflect the diverse aspects of your personality. This lighthearted approach to your tattoo choices becomes a celebration of your multifaceted self.

KITTY CAT ZODIAC TATTOO

Harness your feline fascination to craft a zodiac tattoo that uniquely captures the essence of your Gemini sign. In this imaginative design, the Gemini symbol takes center stage, encircled by the graceful outlines of a pair of endearing cats. The synergy between the zodiac symbol and the cats is not only visually striking but also carries a deeper significance, mirroring the duality associated with Gemini.

LABELED LINE DRAWING ZODIAC TATTOO

This charming Libra tattoo employs simple yet captivating line work, demonstrating the beauty found in minimalism. The design thoughtfully integrates the Libra symbol, accentuated by a clean and elegant layout. What sets this tattoo apart is the inclusion of the sign spelled out underneath, adding a touch of clarity to the symbolism.

CROWNED ZODIAC TATTOO

Your zodiac ink by adorning the sign with additional symbolic elements, much like the splendid crown incorporated into this Scorpio symbol. Beyond being a mere astrological representation, the inclusion of the crown introduces a regal and personalized touch. The crown, a symbol of authority and individuality, seamlessly integrates with the Scorpio symbol, offering a unique narrative to the tattoo.

MERMAID ZODIAC TATTOO

For those fully immersed in their mermaid lifestyle, infusing that aquatic essence into a zodiac tattoo can create a truly enchanting design. Take, for instance, this captivating Capricorn mermaid illustration, where the whimsical fusion of sea and zodiac symbolism comes to life. The mermaid not only embodies the mystical allure of the ocean but also wears the distinctive goat horns, seamlessly blending the aquatic world with the grounded nature of Capricorn.

RAINBOW PAINTED BUTTERFLY ZODIAC TATTOO

This remarkable rainbow watercolor tattoo is a true masterpiece! The meticulous details of the butterfly are breathtaking, especially with the zodiac sign seamlessly integrated in the center. The vibrant array of colors not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also elevates the entire piece to a whole new level of visual appeal.

ELEGANT SCORPIO ZODIAC TATTOO

Many Scorpios opt for a scorpion tattoo to symbolize their star sign, and this particular design infuses a romantic touch with the addition of a graceful rose. The delicate line work and meticulous shading enhance the overall elegance of the tattoo, transforming it into a piece of art that goes beyond a simple zodiac representation.

ANKLE CONSTELLATION ZODIAC TATTOO

Opting for a small constellation tattoo is an incredibly adorable choice for a zodiac representation. The ankle serves as an ideal canvas for this tiny masterpiece—it not only offers the convenience of easy concealment if necessary but also provides a delightful opportunity to showcase the ink, especially during the warmer months.

MOON & SIGN ZODIAC TATTOO

Pairing a moon with the cosmic essence of a zodiac tattoo is a thoughtful choice, and the decision to place these two finger tattoos next to each other adds an extra layer of coolness to the overall concept. The celestial theme becomes cohesive, with the moon complementing the cosmic symbolism of the zodiac.

ARROW ZODIAC TATTOO

The Sagittarius constellation takes on a captivating twist when overlapped with an arrow, creating an intriguing and dynamic design. The choice of placing this celestial creation on the arm adds a layer of significance, with the arrow pointing towards new horizons and adventures, aligning seamlessly with Sagittarius’ adventurous nature.

DATED ZODIAC TATTOO

The Gemini tattoo stands out with its captivating ancient stone appearance, lending it a timeless and enduring quality. What makes this design particularly meaningful is the incorporation of a name and birthday, elevating the tattoo beyond a simple zodiac representation.

CANCER ZODIAC SIGN TATTOOS

Innovative variations can breathe new life into common designs. In this case, the crab tattoo takes a distinctive approach by placing the Cancer zodiac symbol at its center and incorporating unique swirl designs into the otherwise conventional crustacean. This creative twist not only adds an element of individuality to the tattoo but also seamlessly merges astrological symbolism with artistic flair, resulting in a captivating and unconventional representation of the meaningful cancer zodiac tattoo.

FRAMED ZODIAC TATTOO

The tattoo artist shared, “Created a delightful inner bicep piece today featuring his kids’ zodiac signs.” It’s a truly remarkable design that beautifully symbolizes someone’s children. The illustration effortlessly blends modern aesthetics with a timeless quality— the border reminiscent of an antique mirror adds an elegant touch. This tattoo not only serves as a contemporary representation of familial bonds but also introduces a classic element, making it a visually striking and enduring homage to the individual’s connection with their children.

DOUBLE HEART ZODIAC TATTOO

This zodiac tattoo showcases a distinct approach to merging multiple astrological signs. The double hearts, intricately drawn with a single line, evoke a sense of adorableness and creativity. This unique design not only combines astrological elements but also employs an artistic technique that adds a touch of charm and sophistication to the overall composition.

ELBOW ZODIAC TATTOO

The elbow, often overlooked when considering tattoo placements, proves to be an unexpectedly fitting spot in this case. The small zodiac design, hand-poked for that cool sketched look, demonstrates how well this area can work for tattoos. The hand-poked technique adds an extra layer of uniqueness to the design, contributing to its distinct and artistic appearance.

DAINTY CONSTELLATION TATTOO

A zodiac tattoo doesn’t need to be large and prominent to exude a mystical charm; it can be equally enchanting in a small and delicate design. This constellation, with its intricate beauty, radiates a truly lovely and feminine allure.

PISCES MERMAID TAIL ZODIAC TATTOO

Given that the Pisces element is water, incorporating a mermaid tail is exceptionally fitting! The design impressively utilizes delicate dots and lines, seamlessly connecting the tail to the zodiac sign in a fluid and graceful manner. This thoughtful design not only captures the essence of Pisces but also adds an artistic touch, creating a visually harmonious and enchanting representation.

ROUND TAURUS ZODIAC TATTOO

This Taurus tattoo cleverly incorporates the zodiac symbol into its overall shape, skillfully utilizing the animal’s profile. The design, seemingly simple at first glance, reveals a thoughtful and deliberate approach. The symbiotic relationship between the Taurus symbol and the animal’s profile adds a layer of depth, making this tattoo not only visually appealing but also rich in symbolism.

ARIES DOTWORK ZODIAC TATTOO

The Aries tattoo stands out with its incredible attention to small details, creating an amazing aesthetic. The precise dot work and meticulously crafted lettering imbue it with a distinct ancient feel, adding a touch of timeless allure to the overall design.

NATURAL LANDSCAPE ZODIAC TATTOO

The towering mountain atop this Taurus symbol exudes a sense of majesty and beauty. Executed in a traditional style, the tattoo showcases intricate shading and a strategic use of space, creating a visually compelling and well-balanced design. The traditional approach adds a classic touch to the overall aesthetic, emphasizing the symbolism of strength and stability associated with the Taurus zodiac sign.

CONCLUSION

Zodiac sign tattoos are a captivating blend of personal expression and celestial symbolism. From small and delicate designs to intricate masterpieces, they showcase the diversity in how individuals choose to commemorate their astrological identities. This article for inspiration and hopefully, you’ll discover the perfect design to express your astrological identity through body art!