I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails

I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails

      If you've read some of my nail stories on Who What Wear UK, you may know that I'm always searching for alternatives to gel nails. After developing an allergy to many gel polish formulas (sadly), I've been diligently trying out long-lasting nail polishes and press-on nails, with the Essie Gel Couture Top Coat and OPI's Press-On Nails being my current favorites. However, one system I had yet to try until recently was the Manucurist Green Flash LED Nail Kit (£75), which I had only heard positive reviews about, so I decided to see for myself.

      **Manucurist Green Flash LED Nail Kit**

      **What's included:**

      - Vitaminised Base Coat Green Flash

      - Green Flash™ Colour

      - Green Flash™ Top Coat

      - LED Lamp

      - Nail Polish Remover and Nail Clips

      **Pros:**

      - Lasts up to 10 days

      - Stylish range of colors with a glossy finish

      - Applies and removes like standard nail polish

      - Quick and straightforward to apply

      - Easy removal in just one minute

      - Vegan

      **Cons:**

      - Doesn't last quite as long as professional gel polish

      **How Does It Work?**

      What sets the Manucurist Green Flash system apart from other at-home gel nail kits is that it does not use a gel formula (you won't find any methyl acrylates or monomers commonly found in gel polish). Instead, it's more like traditional nail polish that you cure under the provided LED lamp.

      First, you apply the base coat and cure it for one minute. Next, you apply two coats of your chosen color (I opted for Prune, a deep purple-red), curing each coat for two minutes. Finally, you apply a top coat and cure for another two minutes to finish your manicure. All the formulas go on like regular nail polish and give your nails a glossy look, but they are more durable compared to standard nail polish.

      When it comes time to remove them, it’s much simpler than with gel polish. You just soak your nails in the included polish remover and nail clips for a minute, and the polish practically curls off in one satisfying piece. It’s significantly quicker and easier than removing gel polish.

      **The Result**

      The first time I did my nails, I finished both hands in under 20 minutes. When curing the polish under the lamp, it becomes nearly touch-dry in just a minute or two (though I recommend waiting a couple of minutes for full dryness after curing the top coat). Following the steps is quite straightforward, but Manucurist suggests applying thin layers of polish. Having tried this several times, I completely agree. It’s best to apply a thin layer, ideally brushing each nail no more than three times to prevent streaking or a bulky appearance during curing. Be sure to cap the free edge of each nail to help reduce chipping. If you adhere to the instructions, you can easily enjoy a week of wear with minimal chipping.

      **After 6 Days**

      Here are my nails after nearly a week of wear, showing minor chipping on the middle finger and thumb of my right hand. I should mention that I tend to be quite hard on my nails, so if you believe in treating your nails delicately, you might enjoy an even longer duration out of your manicure.

      I used the polish remover and nail clips to take off the polish, and I was stunned by how effortless it was. After just one minute, the polish began to lift off my nails and practically peeled away by itself. It’s certainly less of a hassle than removing either gel or regular nail polish. I was impressed! Because the removal process was so simple, I refreshed my two chipped nails and have now worn the polish for an additional three days, and it still looks great.

      **The Verdict**

      Is the Manucurist Green Flash Slim LED Gel Nail Kit a suitable substitute for gel manicures? I would say yes and no. Gel manicures can last about two to three weeks, whereas this kit offers a wear time closer to 10 days, which is significantly better than most traditional polishes.

      Additionally, it's much easier to use and less troublesome than removing gel or regular nail polish. For that reason, I don’t mind redoing a nail if it chips since the process of removal and reapplication is so easy. It also makes it a great option for those who frequently like to change their nail color. As someone who appreciates both sheer pink and deep red manicures, I enjoy the flexibility to switch up my look more often than with gels.

      If you're unable to use gel polish or want to move away from regular gel manicures, this kit is an excellent choice. It is considerably more cost-effective than ordinary gel manicures (the kit pays for itself after just a few uses), and the Manucurist formulas contain nourishing ingredients to help strengthen your nails, keeping them long and healthy while you wear it

I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails

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I Stopped Using Gels Long Ago—Here’s How I Achieve Luxe-Looking Nails

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