nail art beginners kit

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!

22 BEST SUMMER WHITE NAIL DESIGNS FOR A FRESH SUMMER

As the sun shines brighter and the days get longer, it’s time to switch up your nail look to reflect the carefree vibes of summer. White nails are a perfect base for summer manicures – they’re crisp, clean, and endlessly versatile. But who says white nails have to be plain? Get ready to elevate your tips with these 22 summer white nail designs! We’ve got everything from classic French manicures with a twist to trendy nail art that will make your nails the star of the show. So, grab your favorite white polish and get ready to dive into summer with fresh, fabulous nails!

CHIC WHITE NAIL DESIGN

For a summer chic white nail design, consider a touch of elegance with minimalism. Opt for a clean, crisp white base coat in a creamy or pearlescent finish. To add a touch of sophistication, incorporate metallic accents like thin gold or silver stripes down the center of each nail. You can also play with texture by alternating between a glossy and matte white polish on different fingers. This creates a subtle yet visually interesting look that complements any summer outfit, whether you’re rocking a flowy sundress or a chic white pantsuit.

SHORT FRENCH TIPS

The epitome of summer chic, white short French tips offer a perfect blend of practicality and elegance. With a crisp white tip on a barely-there pink or nude base, this style flatters any nail bed shape and keeps your nails looking polished all season long. But white short French tips aren’t one-size-fits-all! Infuse some personality by opting for a thinner white line for a delicate touch, or go bold with a thicker tip for a more striking look. You can even experiment with colored tips in pastel shades like baby blue or lavender, adding a touch of whimsy to your summer manicure.

WHITE NAIL MAGIC DESIGN

Channel the magic of summer with a mesmerizing white nail design! This isn’t your average manicure – it’s about incorporating elements that evoke wonder and intrigue. Think starry night skies with delicate constellations hand-painted in silver or gold. For a more whimsical touch, create fluffy white clouds accented by tiny rainbows or shimmering glitter accents. Feeling bold? Go for a mesmerizing chrome effect with a white base that shifts and reflects light, creating an almost pearlescent, magical sheen. No matter your style, there’s a white nail magic design waiting to unleash your creativity and turn your fingertips into tiny works of summer enchantment.

WHITE SWIRL NAILS

This design is perfect for those who love a touch of artistry and effortless elegance. There are endless possibilities to create your own swirl masterpiece. Use a thin nail art brush to paint swirls directly onto a white base coat, allowing the white to peek through for a dimensional effect. You can keep the swirls classic in white and black, or get playful with pops of color like pastel pink, baby blue, or even a touch of metallic gold. For a more abstract look, create loose, wispy swirls in different directions. Or, for a more defined look, focus on creating tighter, more controlled swirls. No matter your style, white swirl nails are a guaranteed conversation starter and a perfect way to add a touch of whimsy to your summer look.

MINIMALIST WHITE HEART NAILS

Less is definitely more with minimalist white heart nails. Perfect for those who love a subtle touch of romance or simply adore the clean aesthetic, this design keeps things classic and chic. Paint your nails a crisp white and then, using a dotting tool or a very fine nail art brush, create tiny white hearts on one or two accent nails. Play with placement – a single heart in the center of the nail or a cluster of hearts cascading down the side adds a delicate touch. For a touch of surprise, use a metallic polish like gold or silver to create the outline of the hearts. This minimalist white heart design is a perfect way to add a touch of personalization to your summer mani without overwhelming the clean, elegant look.

NEUTRAL WHITE HEART AND SWIRL NAILS

Create a look that’s both sweet and sophisticated with neutral white heart and swirl nails. This design combines the delicate charm of hearts with the whimsical movement of swirls, offering a perfect balance for summer. Start with a neutral base coat, opting for a soft beige, light taupe, or even a sheer pink for a touch of warmth. Once dry, use a thin nail art brush to create soft white swirls across a few accent nails. Let the swirls be loose and wispy for a more carefree vibe. Then, on the same accent nails, add a tiny white heart using a dotting tool or a fine brush. Play with the placement – position the heart near the base of the swirl or let it float gracefully within its movement. This design offers a subtle touch of romance without sacrificing the neutral elegance, making it perfect for any summer occasion.

MILKY WHITE STAR NAILS

Milky white star nails are a beautiful and trendy manicure that combines the elegance of a sheer, milky white base with the twinkle of celestial stars. This soft, ethereal look is perfect for summer nights or anyone who wants a subtle yet eye-catching manicure. You can keep it simple with a few white stars scattered across each nail, or get creative with different sizes, shapes, and even colors for the stars. This versatile design can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion.

SCALLOPED FRENCH TIPS

Scalloped French tips offer a playful twist on the classic French manicure. Instead of a straight white line across the tip, delicate curves create a scalloped or wavy edge. This adds a touch of whimsy and femininity to the look. You can achieve the scallop effect with a variety of tools, like a dotting tool, a toothpick, or even a bobby pin. The beauty of this design is its versatility. Keep it simple with a sheer base and white scallops, or get adventurous with bolder colors or even metallic finishes. Whether you prefer a subtle or a statement look, scalloped French tips are sure to turn heads.

DECAL FRENCH MANI

A decal French mani offers a quick and easy way to achieve a salon-quality French manicure at home. These decals come in various shapes and sizes, allowing for precise application and perfectly even white tips. They typically consist of self-adhesive stencils or pre-painted nail wraps that adhere directly to your base coat. This method eliminates the need for steady hands and meticulous brushwork, making it ideal for beginners or anyone short on time. Decal French manis also come in a variety of styles beyond the classic white tip. You can find designs with glitter accents, colored tips, or even intricate patterns, allowing for endless customization without the hassle of freehand nail art.

WHITE BORDER SWIRL SKITTLE NAILS

White border swirl skittle nails combine a clean and classic look with a touch of artistic flair. Imagine a base coat of your choice, each fingernail a different color, but all featuring a thin, white border around the edge. Within this white border, delicate swirls of contrasting or complementary colors dance across the nail. This playful design allows for endless customization. Choose a pastel palette for a soft and whimsical look, or bold neons for a vibrant statement. The beauty lies in the mix-and-match approach, making it perfect for expressing your unique style.

HALF MOON FRENCH MANI

A half-moon French mani offers a fresh and modern take on the classic French manicure. Instead of the white tip at the end of the nail, a crescent moon shape is painted near the base, typically in a contrasting color like white or a bold shade. This creates a negative space effect that’s both elegant and eye-catching. You can keep it simple with a sheer base and a classic white half-moon, or play with pops of color or even metallics for the moon. This versatile design works well on all nail lengths and shapes, adding a touch of vintage flair with a modern twist.

DAISY ACCENT FRENCH MANI

The Daisy Accent French Mani is a delightful twist on the classic French manicure, incorporating delicate daisy designs to add a touch of whimsy and charm. This style typically features a traditional white tip on a nude or sheer pink base, but with a playful addition of small, intricately painted daisies on one or more accent nails. The crisp white tips paired with the fresh, cheerful daisies create a look that is both elegant and fun. Ideal for spring and summer, the Daisy Accent French Mani brings a breath of fresh air to your nails, making them look chic yet playful. This manicure is perfect for those who appreciate a subtle yet unique detail, adding a bit of floral beauty to the timeless French manicure.

WHITE SWIRL KELLY GREEN FRENCH TIPS

White swirl kelly green French tips are a stunning and playful twist on the classic French manicure. Instead of a crisp white line, elegant white swirls dance across the tips, their tendrils reaching towards a base coat of vibrant kelly green. This unexpected combination offers a fresh summery feel with a touch of whimsy. The white swirls can be thin and delicate or bold and dramatic, depending on your desired look. For a touch of added flair, consider incorporating a subtle shimmer to the white or even using a different contrasting color for the swirls. This eye-catching design is sure to turn heads and is perfect for anyone who wants a manicure that’s both unique and stylish.

DIAGONAL ACCENT FRENCH MANI

 Instead of the usual straight white tip across the nail, a diagonal line takes center stage. This creates a dynamic and asymmetrical look that’s both playful and sophisticated. The diagonal line can be thin and subtle, or thicker and more dramatic, depending on your preference. You can also get creative by using different colors for the diagonal line, contrasting it with the white tip for an extra pop. This versatile design works well with various base colors, from classic nudes to playful pastels. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or a bolder statement, the diagonal accent French mani offers a unique way to elevate your fingertips.

WHITE CROC NAILS

White croc nails capture the fun and funky vibe of crocodile skin in a chic and unexpected way. Imagine a base coat of crisp white, meticulously textured to resemble the bumpy, ridged surface of crocodile leather. This unique design can be achieved with various techniques, like nail stamping or intricate freehand painting. To add a touch of realism, consider incorporating subtle shadowing around the raised “scales” for a three-dimensional effect. White croc nails are perfect for fashionistas who want a statement piece, but they can also be surprisingly versatile. Keep it clean and modern with just the white croc texture, or add a pop of color with metallic accents or tiny charms for an extra dose of personality.

GOLD-DOTTED WHITE SQUARE NAILS

Gold-dotted white square nails offer a minimalist yet chic look that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine a crisp, clean white base coat applied to perfectly filed square nails. This clean canvas becomes the backdrop for a touch of elegance with the addition of tiny gold dots. These dots can be scattered randomly across the nail for a playful vibe, or arranged in a neat pattern for a more structured look. The size and number of gold dots can be adjusted to your preference, allowing for a subtle accent or a more dramatic statement. This versatile design combines the simplicity of white with the sophistication of gold, making it a great choice for those who want a manicure that’s both modern and timeless.

BLACK AND WHITE STAR NAILS

Black and white star nails offer a classic and versatile design with a touch of celestial charm. This look can be as simple or intricate as you desire. For a minimalist approach, paint your nails all black and add a few scattered white stars in various sizes. Alternatively, create a starry night sky on a white base coat, using different shades of grey and black to create depth. You can use nail art tools like dotting pens or stencils to achieve perfect star shapes, or embrace a more whimsical look with freehand painting. This timeless design complements all nail lengths and shapes, making it a perfect choice for anyone who wants a manicure that’s both stylish and easy to personalize.

WHITE HOURGLASS NAILS

White Hourglass Nails are an elegant and sophisticated nail design that features a unique hourglass shape created with contrasting colors and negative space. This style typically showcases a pristine white base with a carefully crafted hourglass figure in the center, often achieved through the use of clear polish or a different shade. The sleek and symmetrical hourglass silhouette adds a touch of modern artistry, emphasizing the natural curve and length of the nails. White Hourglass Nails are perfect for those who appreciate minimalist yet eye-catching designs, offering a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary flair. This manicure is versatile enough for both formal occasions and everyday wear, making your nails look polished and refined. The clean lines and striking contrast of the hourglass shape create a visually appealing effect that enhances the overall sophistication of your look.

ALL-WHITE FRENCH TIPS

All-White French Tips are a chic and modern twist on the classic French manicure, featuring a seamless white finish across the entire nail. This style embraces the timeless elegance of the traditional French tip but with a contemporary update that covers both the tip and the base in a uniform white color. The result is a clean, sophisticated look that exudes simplicity and refinement. Perfect for any occasion, All-White French Tips offer a versatile and stylish option that can complement both casual and formal attire. The monochromatic palette enhances the natural beauty of the nails while providing a fresh and polished appearance. This manicure is ideal for those who appreciate understated elegance and a minimalist aesthetic, making it a timeless choice that never goes out of style.

IRIDESCENT WHITE ALMOND NAILS

Iridescent White Almond Nails are a stunning and eye-catching nail design that combines the elegance of almond-shaped nails with the mesmerizing effect of iridescent polish. This style features a base of pristine white, enhanced by a shimmering, holographic finish that reflects multiple colors when viewed from different angles. The almond shape adds a touch of sophistication and elongates the fingers, making them appear more slender and graceful. Iridescent White Almond Nails are perfect for those who love a bit of sparkle and want to add a glamorous twist to their manicure. This versatile design is suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions, providing a dazzling yet refined look. The interplay of light on the iridescent surface creates a captivating and dynamic effect, ensuring that your nails stand out with a unique and luxurious flair. Ideal for anyone who appreciates a blend of classic beauty and modern shimmer, these nails are a true statement of style.

CLOUD NAILS

Cloud White Nails are a dreamy and ethereal nail design that evokes the serene beauty of a clear sky dotted with soft, fluffy clouds. This style features a base of pure white, often with subtle gradients or soft, wispy patterns that mimic the appearance of clouds drifting across the sky. The design can be enhanced with hints of light blue or silver accents to add depth and dimension, creating a tranquil and whimsical effect. Cloud White Nails are perfect for those who appreciate a delicate and fanciful aesthetic, bringing a touch of serenity and imagination to their manicure. This look is ideal for both everyday wear and special occasions, providing a soothing and elegant appearance that complements a wide range of styles. The gentle, airy quality of the cloud patterns adds a unique and artistic flair, making your nails look like miniature works of art. Whether you’re aiming for a relaxed, bohemian vibe or a more polished, sophisticated look, Cloud White Nails offer a versatile and enchanting option.

SOFT NEUTRAL OMBRÉ WHITE NAILS

Soft Neutral Ombré White Nails are a sophisticated and timeless nail design that seamlessly blends shades of white with neutral tones for a subtle and elegant gradient effect. This style typically features a base of soft white that gradually transitions into nude, beige, or taupe hues, creating a smooth and harmonious ombré effect. The delicate gradient adds depth and dimension to the nails, making them appear longer and more refined. Soft Neutral Ombré White Nails are perfect for those who appreciate understated beauty and a minimalist aesthetic, offering a versatile and chic option that complements any outfit or occasion. The gentle blend of colors creates a polished and sophisticated look that is both modern and classic. Ideal for everyday wear as well as special events, this manicure exudes a sense of effortless elegance and timeless appeal. The combination of soft white with neutral tones provides a natural and refined finish, making Soft Neutral Ombré White Nails a perfect choice for anyone seeking a subtle yet striking nail design.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it, 22 dazzling summer nail designs in crisp, clean white that are perfect for showing off those summer manis! Whether you crave a touch of whimsy with playful patterns or prefer a minimalist and chic look, there’s a white nail design out there to capture your unique style. With these inspiring ideas as a starting point, get creative and embrace the possibilities for a summer manicure that will turn heads wherever you go.