When I announced on Instagram that Essie was launching a gel polish you all went nuts! Now, I see why. Normally, I opt for regular manicures, but the past two times I tested out the new gels. Tough job, but somebody's gotta do it! Seriously though, (and I say this as I stare down at my shiny, perfectly polished tips), I may be converting. Here's the scoop.
The first time I tried the gels I wanted to see purely how long they would last since I've tried all of the other gels and wanted to compare. I chose my staple Wicked-like color. To be fair, thanks to my anxiety, I pick and eat off my polish. With gels of different brands in the past when I was good about not eating them off (gross!) they normally last me about a week to ten days. Then, they'd begin to peel on the bottom corners and naturally, I'd attack them.
My first Essie gel manicure lasted ten days. I was impressed (as was my fiancé and anyone who knew me). Then, I began picking. The next time, I chose a shade that corresponds with Russian Roulette called Bank Roll. Yes, you can match the shade of gel polish to your favorite corresponding Essie polish through a color wheel, which I feel is crucial!
I will say my manicurist the past two times has been phenomenal, as I truly believe that the way the gels are applied have everything to do with them lasting – light layers. The new Essie gel polish collection comes in 36 shades and uses an LED lamp.