A gel manicure is great for a long-lasting look that can go days without chipping. The only issue is that getting gel manicures consistently may cause your nails to chip and peel. Researchers at the American Academy of Dermatology Association reported that repeated gel manicures “can increase the risk for skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands,” since most gel nails are cured with a UV lamp.
There are many gel manicures on the market that you do not need to cure. These go on like regular polish, but shine and last like gel. Here are some non-damaging items that you can use at home to get the perfect gel nails.
Essie’s Nail Polish
Essie’s Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish comes in over 40 longlasting colors. The spectrum of shades goes from pastel pinks to the deep reds.
Once you apply two layers of this polish, and one layer of a gel top coat, then you’ll have chip-resistant nails.
This vegan polish doesn’t require a UV lamp to achieve a gel-like appearance. For removal, all you need is a nail polish remover.
Chanel’s Le Gel Coat
Chanel makes more than handbags. The luxury brand also has a line of nail products, including the Le Gel Coat Longwear Top Coat.
The clear top coat delivers a high-gloss finish to your nail polish without needing a UV lamp. It leans on camellia oil to help your nails shine.
Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel Nail Polish
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish doesn’t need a UV light to offer gel-quality nails. Once applied, the chip-resistant polish lasts for up to eight days.
When you want to redo them or change the color, you can use regular nail polish remover to take off the color. It comes in 56 colors, ranging from electrifying neon colors to classic neutrals.
Sally Hansen’s Miracle Top Coat
If you love matte gel nails, then Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel Nail Polish Matte Top Coat is the perfect top coat for you.
The longlasting matte top coat works like a non-gel polish. Once the top coat dries, you get up to eight days of chip-resistant wear.
Ulta Beauty’s Gel Nail Set
The Perfect Pair Gel Nail Set comes from the Ulta Beauty Collection. This set includes a shimmery rose gold gel shine lacquer and a gel shine top coat.
This long-wearing polish goes on and comes off like a regular nail polish. There is no LED light required to achieve a high-shine gel-like finish.
LED Lamp
When you need to cure your nails, reach for the CND LED Lamp. The convertible lamp can be used for your hands or your feet. When doing a pedicure, simply remove the bottom plate.
A major benefit to the size of this lamp is that it can fit one hand or foot at a time without a bunch of fuss. It is perfect for swapping out your small handheld UV light, so you can apply your nail strips and get out the door.
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