nail polish remover travel

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!

THE 18 BEST LONG LASTING NAIL POLISHES: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LONG-LASTING POLISHES

Tired of chipped manicures that don’t live up to the hype? We’ve all been there! But fret no more, because this guide is here to unlock the secrets of long-lasting nail polish. We’ll delve into the world of polishes that defy chipping and fading, keeping your nails looking salon-fresh for days on end. Whether you’re a busy professional, a nail art enthusiast, or simply someone who craves a flawless manicure, this guide is your secret weapon. Get ready to discover the top 18 long-lasting nail polishes, along with helpful tips and tricks for maximizing their wear time. Keep reading!

OUR TOP PICKS

ESSIE GEL COUTURE NAIL POLISH

Crowned the “Best Overall” for long-lasting nail polish, Essie’s Gel Couture system is a fan favorite for a reason.  It delivers a salon-quality manicure at home, minus the UV lamp and harsh removal process. This two-step system boasts a high-shine top coat and chip-resistant color that can last up to 14 days with proper application. Essie Gel Couture also wins points for its comfortable, wide brush that allows for smooth, even application. Plus, with a vast array of stunning colors to choose from, you can find the perfect shade to match any mood or outfit.  Whether you crave a classic red or a trendy glitter finish, Essie Gel Couture has you covered.

ESSIE BALLET NUDES GEL COUTURE

If you’re aiming for elegant neutrals for your nails, then the nude Essie Ballet collection in their Gel Couture line could be the perfect match for you. This collection is inspired by the delicate colors of the world of ballet, offering a range of soft pinks, creamy beiges and subtle greys. All of the shades in this collection are formulated with the same long-lasting, chip-resistant properties as the core Essie Gel Couture line, promising up to two weeks of wear without foundation. Whether you prefer a sheer, barely there manicure or a more opaque, cream manicure, the Essie Ballet Nude collection offers a sophisticated and versatile choice for those who love the look Classic and sleek hands. Looking at the image below, this paint color could be an ideal choice for light pink nail designs.

SALLY HANSEN MIRACLE GEL

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel offers a compelling alternative to Essie Gel Couture, particularly for those seeking a budget-friendly, long-lasting option. Unlike Essie’s system, Miracle Gel doesn’t require a separate top coat. It’s a two-step system with a built-in gel-like top coat within the color polish itself. This simplifies the application process and saves you money. Users report achieving up to 8 days of chip-resistant wear with Miracle Gel, making it a strong contender for long-lasting color. Plus, Sally Hansen boasts a wide color range, ensuring you can find a shade that complements your style. If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable way to achieve a long-lasting manicure at home, Sally Hansen Miracle Gel is definitely worth considering.

BUTTER LONDON PATENT SHINE 10X LACQUER

Boasting a luxurious, high-gloss finish, butter LONDON Patent Shine 10X Lacquer caters to those who crave a chip-resistant manicure with a touch of sophistication.  This polish goes beyond just color, aiming to deliver a gel-like shine without requiring a UV lamp. The 10X in its name refers to the brand’s claim that it offers up to 10 days of chip-free wear.  It’s formulated with a “buttery smooth” texture that glides easily onto nails, promoting a flawless application.  While not quite reaching the 14-day wear time of some competitors, butter LONDON Patent Shine 10X Lacquer is a strong contender for those seeking a long-lasting polish with a luxurious feel and a dazzling shine. 

CND VINYLUX LONGWEAR NAIL POLISH

CND Vinylux Longwear Nail Polish takes a slightly different approach to long-lasting color. Unlike some gel-like polishes, Vinylux is a two-step system that skips the UV lamp and harsh removal process. It boasts a unique formula that hardens upon exposure to natural light, progressively strengthening the wear time over time. While it might not reach the absolute top wear times of some competitors (lasting around 7 days), CND Vinylux makes up for it in several ways. Firstly, it’s known for being gentler on nails compared to some gel polishes. Secondly, the two-step system with its built-in base coat simplifies application. Finally, CND Vinylux offers a vast color selection, including a popular range of nourishing shades infused with keratin, jojoba oil, and Vitamin E to promote healthy nails alongside long-lasting color.

OLIVE & JUNE NAIL POLISH

In the realm of vibrant, chip-resistant polishes, Olive & June Nail Polish stands out for its commitment to both color and longevity.  This brand prioritizes clean beauty, offering polishes free from 10+ harmful ingredients commonly found in nail products.  Despite this focus on clean ingredients, Olive & June polishes boast an impressive 7-day wear time, defying the misconception that non-toxic polishes can’t be long-lasting.  The brand also takes pride in its easy-to-use, fast-drying formula and its unique, wide brush designed for flawless application at home.  Olive & June offers a truly extensive color palette, ranging from playful brights and chic neutrals to trendy shimmers and sophisticated cremes.

DEBORAH LIPPMANN GEL LAB PRO

Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro nail polish isn’t just about stunning color, it’s a complete nail care package. Offered in a dazzling array of 85 shades, you’ll find everything from eye-catching brights and shimmering glitters to universally flattering neutrals.

This polish goes beyond vibrant choices. Its highly pigmented formula delivers rich color in just two coats, and with proper care (including a base and top coat), it can last a stunning two weeks. But the pampering doesn’t stop there.

The Gel Lab Pro formula is infused with nourishing ingredients that benefit your nails. Biotin helps stimulate keratin production, while evening primrose oil, rich in omega-6 fatty acids, combats moisture loss. Finally, silk fibers add a touch of luxury and contribute to the polish’s ultra-glossy, long-lasting finish.

So, ditch the frequent touch-ups and chipped nails. Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro offers vibrant, long-lasting color with a touch of pampering for your nails.

OPI SOFT SHADES NAIL LACQUER COLLECTION

Unfortunately, OPI’s Soft Shades Nail Lacquer Collection isn’t specifically known for being long-lasting.  While OPI offers a variety of polishes formulated for extended wear, the Soft Shades Collection seems to prioritize a different benefit.

Based on available information, the Soft Shades Collection likely focuses on delivering soft, subtle colors with a sheer or creamy finish. These polishes are ideal for creating a clean, elegant manicure or adding a touch of delicate color to your nails. If you’re looking for long-lasting, chip-resistant polishes, OPI offers other lines specifically designed for that purpose.

GUCCI GLOSSY NAIL POLISH IN GOLDIE RED

Gucci’s Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish in Goldie Red isn’t specifically marketed for long-lasting wear. While Gucci offers luxurious beauty products, their focus with this polish seems to be on high-impact color and a touch of luxury.

Goldie Red boasts a vibrant red shade with a glossy finish, formulated with plant-based ingredients.  It comes with a custom-designed brush for a smooth application and aims to flatter your nails by smoothing imperfections.  While long-lasting wear isn’t a top selling point, if you’re looking for a bold red polish with a luxurious feel and a high-shine finish, Gucci’s Vernis à Ongles in Goldie Red could be a tempting choice.

ELLA+MILA NAIL POLISH, ME COLLECTION – MY POOL PARTY

Dive into summer with a splash of color! ella+mila’s “Me Collection – My Pool Party” nail polish offers a refreshing baby blue hue with a subtle shimmer, perfect for bringing a touch of poolside fun to your fingertips. This polish is formulated specifically with safety in mind, making it ideal for little ones who want to join in on the mani-me time.  While it may not be the most long-lasting option, its quick-drying formula ensures a speedy application and chip removal is a breeze. So, paint your nails poolside-perfect with “My Pool Party” and enjoy the vibrant summer vibes!

NAILS, INC. 45 SECOND SPEEDY GLOSS

Calling all busy bees! Nails Inc.’s 45 Second Speedy Gloss is a game-changer for those who crave flawless nails but are short on time. This polish lives up to its name, boasting a super-fast drying formula that sets in just 45 seconds. No more waiting around for your manicure to dry – with Speedy Gloss, you can get back to your busy life in a flash.

But speed isn’t the only perk. This polish also delivers high-shine color with a salon-quality finish.  Available in a wide range of shades, you’ll find everything from classic cremes to playful shimmers to match your mood and style.  Whether you’re dashing out the door in the morning or need a quick polish touch-up, Nails Inc. 45 Second Speedy Gloss is the perfect solution for beautiful nails on the go.

ORLY ANYTHING GOES

Orly’s Anything Goes nail polish defies the misconception that glitter polish is just for kids, offering a sophisticated and glamorous option for all ages. With its durable wear, versatile application, surprisingly smooth texture, and easy removal, this hidden gem stands out as a must-have for those seeking a long-lasting and mesmerizing manicure. Whether worn alone for a statement look or layered over another shade for added depth, Anything Goes elevates any manicure, promising to turn heads with its dazzling sparkle that lasts for weeks.

JINSOON PIXIE SHEER GLOSS

Jin Soon polishes boast a remarkable durability, with Pixie, in particular, lasting up to seven days with just two to three coats and drying quickly for added convenience. Unlike many other polishes, Pixie maintains its integrity, resisting cracking even after several days of wear. What sets Jin Soon apart is its commitment to quality and ethical standards: their polishes are devoid of harsh chemicals, feature UV filter protection, and are cruelty-free. Notably, they’ve transitioned to a 10-free formula, eliminating formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin, camphor, xylene, ethyl tosylamide, triphenyl phosphate, parabens, and lead from their ingredients, ensuring both safety and performance.

LE MINI MACARON MINI GEL NAIL POLISH KIT

Want salon-quality nails without the salon price tag? This all-in-one gel polish kit is your secret weapon!

This adorable kit boasts 10 mesmerizing pearlescent shades, offering incredible color payoff that rivals professional manicures.  The best part? This polish acts as a base, color, and top coat, saving you both time and money.

Plus, the kit comes with everything you need to get started: gel polish remover wraps, a mini nail file, and a cuticle stick.  Enjoy long-lasting, chip-resistant wear for up to 14 days, all from the comfort of your home.

Here’s a heads up:  The included LED lamp is compact, which means curing each nail individually. While this extends the application time slightly, it also offers a benefit – less UV light exposure for your hands.  The portability of the lamp makes it perfect for travel or quick touch-ups on the go.

ILNP JULIETTE HOLOGRAPHIC NAIL POLISH, ROSE GOLD

Get ready to mesmerize with ILNP Juliette Holographic Nail Polish in Rose Gold! This polish isn’t just another pretty shade; it’s a captivating display of color and shine.  Imagine a luxurious rose gold base infused with a blinding holographic sparkle.  With every shift of your hand, your nails will transform, catching the light and revealing a dazzling spectrum of color.

ILNP Juliette is more than just mesmerizing looks, though.  This polish is formulated with a focus on quality.  The Ultra Metallic™ formula applies smoothly and delivers rich, opaque color, ensuring a flawless finish.  While long-lasting wear times aren’t specifically mentioned for this polish, ILNP is known for its high-quality formulas that resist chipping and fading for a respectable wear time.

So ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with ILNP Juliette. This rose gold holographic polish is the perfect way to add a touch of magic and glamour to your fingertips.

KIKI PRETTY NAIL GRAFFITI

Calling all nail art enthusiasts and free spirits! KIKI Pretty Nail Graffiti is your gateway to endless nail design possibilities. Unlike traditional polishes, KIKI’s innovative formula is peel-off, giving you the freedom to change your look as often as your mood strikes.

This unique polish comes in a convenient pen-like applicator for mess-free application. With a water-based formula, it dries quickly and removes effortlessly, leaving no harsh chemicals behind.

Whether you’re a seasoned nail artist or a beginner who wants to experiment, KIKI Pretty Nail Graffiti is the perfect tool.  Use it for freehand designs, add playful details to a solid color manicure, or create intricate nail art – the possibilities are endless!  So unleash your creativity and express yourself with KIKI’s fun and playful peel-off nail polish.

EMILIE HEATHE NAIL ARTIST NAIL POLISH

Cultivate healthy, beautiful nails with a touch of sophistication. Emilie Heathe Nail Artist Nail Polish offers a luxurious experience that goes beyond vibrant colors. This polish is formulated with care, boasting vegan and cruelty-free ingredients that nourish your nails while delivering long-lasting color.

Emilie Heathe polishes are infused with a blend of beneficial components like bamboo extract, sea buckthorn oil, and rice bran oil. These ingredients work together to strengthen nails, promote healthy growth, and combat chipping. Available in a delightful range of 12 shades, you’ll find everything from classic cremes to trendy brights to complement any style.

CIRQUE COLORS CREME NAIL POLISH

Cirque Colors Creme Nail Polish is a favorite among those who crave both vibrant color and a healthy, non-toxic formula. These polishes boast a rich, opaque application in just two coats, ensuring your chosen shade gets its moment to shine. Unlike some long-wearing options that can be harsh on nails, Cirque Colors prioritizes a clean, 10-free formula free of formaldehyde, toluene, and other harmful ingredients.

Available in a delightful array of colors, from classic cremes and chic neutrals to trendy brights and playful pops of color, there’s a shade to suit every mood and style. Cirque Colors polishes are also known for their smooth, long-lasting finish. While not the absolute longest-wearing polishes on the market, they offer a respectable chip-resistant lifespan, making them ideal for those who prioritize healthy nails and vibrant color without sacrificing too much on wear time.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING LONG-LASTING NAIL POLISH

Longing for a flawless manicure that defies chipping and fading? Choosing the right long-lasting nail polish is key. Here are some crucial factors to keep in mind:

Wear Time: This is a top priority! Polish brands often advertise their wear time, so this is a good starting point. Look for polishes boasting 7-14 days of wear for a truly long-lasting effect.

Formula: Gel-like formulas are popular for their extended wear and chip-resistant properties. However, some may require a UV lamp for curing. Explore non-gel options that prioritize long wear if UV lamps aren’t your preference.

Base and Top Coat: Don’t underestimate the power of a good base and top coat! These work together to create a strong foundation for your polish and prevent chipping. Look for a system specifically designed for the chosen polish brand for optimal results.

Application: Smooth and even application is vital for long-lasting wear. Choose polishes with a comfortable brush that facilitates a flawless application. 1-2 coats are usually sufficient for most long-lasting polishes.

Removal Process: While long wear is desirable, consider the removal process. Some long-lasting polishes might require stronger removers, so prioritize gentle formulas if nail health is a concern.

Bonus Tip: Don’t skip proper nail prep!  Gently push back cuticles, buff your nails lightly for better polish adhesion, and make sure your nails are clean and dry before application for extended wear.

CONCLUSION

Waving goodbye to chipped nails and endless touch-ups is now a reality! This guide has unveiled the top 18 long-lasting nail polishes, equipping you with the knowledge to achieve a salon-quality manicure at home.

Remember, consider your priorities – wear time, formula, ease of application, or a touch of pampering. With the vast array of options available, there’s a perfect long-lasting polish waiting to be discovered. So go forth, experiment with color and shine, and flaunt flawless fingertips for days on end!