Perfect Match Gel Polish

While lamps do produce UV light, the FDA views nail lamps as low risk when used as directed by the label. “If you are still concerned and want to take extra precaution, you can put sunscreen on your hands prior to your appointment or wear gloves with the tips cut off during your manicure,” Stone says.A household name, Sally Hansen is a trusted source when it comes to all things nails, so it’s no wonder that the brand’s at-home gel nail kit is ideal for someone trying to learn the basics. “This kit is perfect for beginners because it involves only three steps and is so simple to follow,” our tester shares.

As if the eight polish colors weren’t enough, the kit also comes with a selection of embellishments — like flower decals, holographic sequins, and a variety of rhinestones — to seriously upgrade your mani. The kit also includes an acid-free primer, a dehydrator (which prepares nails for gel), a base coat, a top coat, and eight manicure tools (think: nail clipper, buffer, cuticle pusher, and more).

We set out to find the best at-home gel manicure kits. To do so, we rounded up a handful of testers to research the most popular kits and try them out in our testing lab to determine which ones are worth the splurge. After thorough testing — taking into account ease of use and removal, drying time, quality, and post-mani nail health — we picked the best-performing kits. Ultimately, the Morovan Poly Gel Nail Kit impressed us most due to its salon-quality results and top scores in the aforementioned categories.Have you ever treated yourself to a manicure only for your nails to chip on the way home from the salon? If you’ve experienced this, it can feel like a big waste of both time and money. That’s why gel manicures are increasingly popular: Gel polish leaves behind a super glossy finish that stays intact for weeks — even after washing your hands or doing the dishes. Whether you’re committed to DIY-ing your nails, or are trying to cut back on salon visits, achieving a salon-quality gel manicure is possible at home, all thanks to at-home gel nail kits.

As with all things, there is one downside — it takes a while for the gel to harden. “The multiple layers of polish make the manicure feel wet and tacky even after drying under the LED light for the recommended 60 seconds,” the tester admits. “I had to do multiple rounds under the curing light to get my nails to harden.”Because of the kit’s miniature size, you can only cure one nail at a time. Despite the process taking a little longer to ensure each nail gets enough curing time, the finished product makes the entire process worth it.

The comment section of this Amazon-favorite gel nail kit is filled with thousands of positive reviews, and according to our tester, it’s for good reason. At an affordable price point, you get a powerful 72-watt LED curing light, a removable tray that allows you to do your toes with ease, manicure tools, design accessories, and 12 different polish colors.It’s worth noting that because there’s no curing process involved, the final result isn’t as hard as a typical gel manicure. The reviewer didn’t seem to mind, though, given that the polish stayed intact without it.

If you’re hesitant to use an LED light, skip the curing step and try this swipe-and-go option. The application is the same as a traditional nail polish: All you have to do is paint on two coats of an Essie gel shade (there are plenty to choose from) and top it with the gel topcoat. Because there are only two pieces in this set, it’s a great option if you want to avoid cluttering your beauty space.

It’s not only nice to look at — the entire process is a breeze, too. Our tester notes that she was shocked at how fast the LED light cures each nail. “My nails look fantastic even though my hands are far from steady,” she shares. “The quality of the gel and the curing process covered my many mistakes and the cuticle tool was great at removing polish from my skin.”

It’s pretty incredible that the kit contains everything you could ever need to do a gel manicure, but with that said, it can be overwhelming for a first-timer. Thankfully, it comes with an easy-to-follow guide and has a pretty wide margin for error. The tester notes that, “Regardless of the mistakes I made, the gel came out pretty good.”

When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site.

The kit contains an LED lamp, one polish color, both top and base coats, and nail care essentials like a file and buffer to help shape nails. What makes this kit unique is how fast it works. “The drying time was very quick and it wasn’t sticky after the suggested curing time [of 30 seconds],” the tester adds. “It dried hard, smooth and streak-free.” Plus, according to the brand, the kit lasts for up to 10 gel manicures, which is a pretty good value for $60 total (and significantly cheaper than visiting the salon where gel manicures can cost upwards of $40 each.)One thing this kit doesn’t include: Removal accessories. Thankfully, removal supplies aren’t hard to come by — in fact, a trip to the drugstore should do the trick. Sally Hansen Global Ambassador and nail pro Madeline Poole previously told InStyle, “You only need pure acetone to effectively and quickly break down the gel polish.” The tester shares that she was pleased with the long term results. “The finish is extremely shiny and the color comes out beautifully,” she says. Plus, even after a few weeks of wear, the gel polish didn’t damage her natural nails. “Damage from nail enhancements comes from improper prep, application, and/or improper removal — not the product itself,” says Kandalec. “One way to prevent damage is to visit a reputable salon that doesn’t rush the removal process.” Gel needs to soak for at least 20 minutes and should never be peeled or picked off, she adds. To remove gel polish at home, Poole explained to InStyle that you should start by buffing the top layer of your mani with a coarse nail file. Then, soak cotton balls in acetone, secure them to each nail with aluminum foil and wait 10 to 15 minutes. “The gel manicure should slide off with the cotton ball when you remove the foil, but if some residue remains stuck on your nail, use an orangewood stick to work it off,” she said.Aside from being a quick and convenient way to get a gel mani at home, the results speak for themselves. “My nails look like they got professionally done,” our tester says. “Even after 2+ weeks, there is very minimal chipping.”Did you notice the InStyle Picks seal of approval at the top of this story? That means our team of testers has reviewed every product on this list using a unique methodology to ensure it’s really worth your time, money, and attention. We may get samples for free to try but we never promise positive (or any!) coverage in exchange. Put simply: InStyle Picks are products we love, and we’ve put them to the test to be sure you will too.Each kit comes with everything you need for a damage-free, clear gel manicure, including the brand’s patented nail rescue serum and reparative base coat, clear gel polish (a plethora of color options is sold separately), clear shine polish, polish remover, a nail file, a cuticle pusher, soak-off nail foils, cotton balls, and a travel-size LED light. Best of all, the kit doesn’t skimp on quality. “The base polish dries quickly and the clear gel easily spreads across each nail,” the tester says. “Plus, the light is easy to set up — just be aware that you need your own charging block.”

To kick things off, we spent about a week researching the top-rated at-home gel nail kits on the market. After honing in on online ratings, we spent a total of 54 hours putting the 9 most popular kits to the test in our lab and at-home. We had each of our testers try the kits so that they could analyze the performance of each one and write down their insights in the process. In doing so, our testers rated each at-home kit on a scale of 1 to 5 for six key categories: ease of use, drying time, overall look, quality, ease of removal, and nail integrity post-removal. After initial application, our testers wore their gel manicures for two weeks to evaluate the long wear claims, then removed to review that process as well. Once all the data was collected, we were able to narrow down the original pool of products to the top six at-home gel nail kits.

Lastly, check out each kit’s polish color offerings. Some options only come with one or two shades, while others come with an entire collection. With that in mind, make sure the colors are ones you’ll actually wear so that you get your money’s worth.

That said, this kit covers the basics and nothing more. While a minimalist might love the fact that there’s only one shade, the tester notes that she wishes there were more colors available with the kit. However, you can shop all 21 of the gel polish shades, which are sold separately, at Sally Hansen. After all, variety is key when it comes to nail polish.When it comes to gel manicures, an LED curing lamp is key. There’s essentially no other way to harden the gel which gives the manicure its signature rock-solid finish. Our Best Overall pick, the Morovan Poly Gel Nail Kit, comes with a professional-grade, 48-watt LED light to cure nails. With that said, check whether or not the kit you’re eyeing requires a lamp. If it does, opt for a kit that contains one, otherwise you’ll need to purchase one separately. Julie Kandalec, a professional nail artist who has worked with celebs like Sydney Sweeney, Mariah Carey, and Jessica Chastain, tells InStyle that every product and manufacturer line has its own base coat, top coat gel colors, and lamps, so you should only go with the lamp that the manufacturer recommends. “You shouldn’t mix products or lamps because some of them have a higher or lower output which can cause under- or over-curing of the gel,” she explains.

For someone looking to dip their toes (and fingers) into doing their own gel manicures, this kit is an excellent place to start. The comprehensive set is equipped with all of the essentials you need to prep your nails and craft unique designs from the comfort of your home. With six bottles of regular gel polish and two bottles of temperature-changing ombre polish, you’ll never get bored with your nails.From the adorable heart-shaped packaging to the easy-to-follow instruction manual, this kit makes doing a mani on the go enjoyable and fun. Even our tester, a self-proclaimed manicure amateur, says the kit is like a party in a box.

Gel polish curing is the process of using a specially designed UV or LED light to seal and harden the gel nail polish on your nails. This process is known as polymerisation because it causes the molecules in the gel polish to bond together, forming a solid layer of colour that won’t chip or wear off easily. Depending on your nail type and the type of lamp used, curing times can vary from a few seconds to several minutes. We’ll discuss this in greater detail below where we show two methods for drying gel nail polish.

When it comes to gel polish topcoats, you should only cure them for a maximum of 90 seconds – even if you feel that 60 seconds may not be sufficient. This protective sealer preserves the colour underneath while giving your nails a luminous finish.

For a flawless finish, set your timer for two minutes and press the power button to turn on the lamp. Keep still while it dries – this is essential in achieving that perfect shine.

Excessive curing of the gel top coat can cause it to become hard and solid, rendering it unable to interact with acetone. This means that if your topcoat is over-cured, you will need to manually file off the product in order for removal.To ensure a perfect manicure, paint and cure each hand individually. This will allow you to avoid smudging your gel polish while also granting added convenience when applying the colour to your dominant hand, as it will be dry by then. Additionally, put thick layers of thin coats in order to create an even finish that looks professional. Finally, if advised by the manufacturer or for extra precaution against smudges – make sure you paint and dry your thumbnails separately.

To complete the removal process, take a cotton pad saturated in alcohol and remove the sticky top layer that has been produced from your cured nails. If you prefer avoiding alcohol-based products, use a specialised gel cleanser instead. After this step is completed, you can enjoy flawless nails.For intense daily use, your UV bulb should be replaced every 2-4 months to ensure consistency in effectiveness. Make sure to purchase a new set of bulbs from the same manufacturer and follow the instructions for installation. If you are not using the lamp consistently, replacement only needs to occur once or twice per year.

UV and LED lamps are an effective way to cure gel nail polish, so it comes down to personal preference. Generally speaking, LED lamps cure faster than UV lamps and don’t produce as much heat, which can benefit people with sensitive skin or nails. On the other hand, some technicians prefer UV lamps because they offer more power and often provide a wider working area. Ultimately, the choice is up to you and what works best for your particular needs.To ensure a pristine manicure, keep your hands flat on the table or base of the lamp and separate your fingers. Be cautious not to touch any other parts of the lamp; this could ruin your polish. Opt for a removable-base type of lamp when picking out one specifically for a pedicure—it will make it more convenient for you to place over your nails as needed.With your freshly painted nails, position them directly underneath the LED lamp. Ensure one hand is covered with a single coat of nail polish designed for this kind of lighting. Once in place, ensure the shine from the lacquer faces upwards to receive maximum illumination benefits and long-lasting results.

Safety first: Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen or UV-absorbent gloves. As an added precaution, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to the hands before painting nails with gel polish. You could use UV absorbent gloves to further protect against harmful ultraviolet rays.To avoid over-curing your gel base coat, only expose it to the LED lamp for 45 seconds. Even if this seems too brief, additional UV light will be emitted as the gel polish’s top, and colour coats must also go through their specific curing processes afterwards. Ultimately, even without going beyond that initial forty-five-second mark -the entire process can extend 3 minutes or more after all is said and done; over-curing is a real risk in these cases.The Food and Drug Administration in the USA has deemed the adverse effects of UV lamps low-risk with proper usage. However, to ensure your well-being, it is wise to take extra safety measures when exposing yourself under their lights. Moreover, abstain from applying any cosmetic products on your skin before getting a session since they can cause hypersensitivity reactions to UV rays. The most common reason your gel polish is not drying correctly is that the UV lamp was insufficient. The LED lamp bulb must be powerful enough to emit UV light at the correct frequency, so do not use a cheap knock-off that cannot produce this wavelength. Moreover, these lamps must be placed far enough away from your nails – usually around 2 inches – for the gel base coat and top coat to form correctly. As soon as the light turns off, you’ll know your cycle is finished, and it’s time to remove your hands from underneath the lamp. It’s then safe to begin adding coats of gel nail polish. Remember to cure each coat under the lamp – including the base and top coats – so they can all be adequately sealed for long-lasting results.Before you begin with the gel polish, read through and follow all instructions from the polish manufacturer. Depending on the product used, it might only take a one-minute cycle. After every gel layer has been applied, curing each completely is necessary before continuing. To remain safe during this process, don’t run your UV lamp for more than 10 minutes when working on both hands – this equals up to five layers of colour or base coat/topcoat combined.

Place your painted nails flat under the UV lamp, allowing for a slight gap between each finger. Position them so that the polish-side of your nails face upwards, and keep your palms pressed on the table or against the lamp’s base. You don’t need to stick all five fingers into one section – make sure that only your fingernails are getting direct exposure from beneath this radiation source while mitigating any further skin contact with UV light.

When this happens, you will struggle to remove over-cured gel polish with acetone, and it won’t work. To prevent damaging your natural nails, reach for a nail file or electric file instead, and a gentle filing will easily take it off without causing any harm. To attain a flawless, glossy manicure finish, it’s ideal to paint and cure one hand at a time. Begin by using the nail lamp on one hand before using the same hand to apply polish on the other. For best results, brush gel polish in thin layers until you reach an opaque colouration–usually, between 2-4 coats will do. To set the polish, select a 30-second cycle. Using one hand to hold the lamp in place, use your other hand to adjust the settings and turn on a 30-second timer with either a dial or a designated button. Once you press start and see lights come on, ensure that your hands remain motionless beneath the light’s beam for all thirty seconds.When curing your gel polish, ensure you read the manufacturer’s directions and know how long a cycle is required; some may only need 10 seconds, while others could take up to 45. If you have a lamp with just one button, press it for shorter cycles or hold it down for longer ones. Additionally, check the instructions from your lamp’s producer so you can confidently use their product correctly.

Opt for an LED lamp over a UV one and experience the benefits of faster drying time. LED lamps usually dry gel polish in half the time, ultimately saving you more time on your manicure. Although LED lamps can be pricier than UV lamps, investing in them could be a wise decision if you’re seeking to save time.To prevent smearing or ruining your gel polish, paint and cure each finger separately, starting with the index finger. This way, you won’t have to fret about messing up your other nails when using the less-dominant hand. Doing this will also allow for greater light exposure on the thumbnail so that it can properly dry faster.After the completion of a layer of gel topcoat, this step should be done to ensure success. Unnecessary steps are not required in between layers of gel polish for optimal results.The defining characteristic of gel polish is its flexibility, which must be preserved with adequate curing. When the pigment is over-cured, it loses this crucial quality and results in colour adhering directly to the nail plate during removal rather than peeling away from the base coat as though there never was one. So while you won’t immediately notice an issue, take care not to let your gel polish get overcooked.

Not only should you both enjoy a few of the same hobbies or activities, you should also enjoy doing them together. Spending quality time with your significant other is what really matters.

These four signs show your relationship is going well. I can’t stress enough, however, that if your partner and you don’t feel like you show these signs that doesn’t mean you haven’t found your perfect match. It just means you may need to change the direction of your relationship and work on a few things. Good luck!Goldstein states that in the majority of successful relationships she’s witnessed, the couple strikes a balance where one of them is “The Star” and one of them is “The Rock”.

So if you’re super outgoing and your partner is a huge introvert (or vice-versa), that’s actually a good sign. Your social energies should compliment each other. Couples with two outgoing people (or two introverts) typically have more problems that those with inverted personalities.

This one’s obvious, right? It is… but still so many people end up with a partner they have nothing in common with. Maybe they went strictly for looks and didn’t care about anything else. I personally couldn’t be in a long-term relationship with someone based on looks alone, and Goldstein agrees.If you want to rough it in a tent, but she thinks that idea is crazy and needs a 5-star resort, you may need to rethink your relationship. While a relationship like this can work, it’s going to cause some difficulties.

For example, these lifestyle differences could come into play when it’s time to buy a house or pick an education path for your children, the expert said.Many couples sap each other’s energy, and neither partner gets a chance to be themselves or express how they truly feel. These are very bad relationships. Instead, if you feel like you can be your complete self in your relationship, you’re on the right track. When to toss: Usually every six months to a year, depending on how much it has stretched out. Two ways to tell whether it’s too stretched out: if the bra used to stay in place but now rides up in the back or if your breasts bounce around a lot when you jog or jump. A supportive bra protects your breast tissue from stretching and can also help prevent soreness. To preserve the bra’s elasticity, wash it in cold water on the gentle cycle and hang it to dry. When to toss: If the bottle has been opened, throw it out after two years. Sealed, it’s good for three years. It won’t look or smell different, but the alcohol evaporates quickly, leaving a solution that’s too weak to kill bacteria, explains Steve Clement, a pharmacist and spokesperson for the American Pharmaceutical Association.What’s the shelf life of your mascara? Your toothbrush? And hold up, does nail polish expire? It can be tricky to figure out how long it’s safe to use certain products without an expiration date — but it doesn’t have to be. Here, experts share when to toss 17 common household products.

When to toss: After two years, unless there’s an earlier expiration date on the bottle. Old insect repellent isn’t dangerous, just useless, says Jim Baral, M.D., an assistant clinical professor at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City.When to toss: Every three shaves. After that, the blade becomes nicked and can cut your skin. Bacteria can also develop, causing a rash or other skin irritation, says Debra Jaliman, M.D., a clinical instructor at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Change the blade weekly on non-disposable razors. When to toss: After six months if it’s been opened; three years otherwise. To test whether it’s still effective: “Pour some into the sink — if it fizzes and bubbles, it’s good,” says Marc A. Sweeney, a doctor of pharmacy. And JSYK, expired hydrogen peroxide is ineffective but not harmful. When to toss: How long does nail polish last? Well, that depends. Opened bottles should be tossed after about two years. Unopened, they can last indefinitely, says Annette Soboleski, a nail technician for polish maker OPI. Once a bottle has been opened, some ingredients will evaporate, causing the polish to thicken and separate. To thin the polish and make it last longer, add a few drops of nail lacquer thinner.

When to toss: After three or four weeks. Bacteria can build up in the crevices and infect you via an open cut or acne, says Birgit Toome, M.D., a dermatologist in New Jersey. Plus, a loofah loses its ability to slough off dry skin after a few weeks. Mesh puffs are more resistant to bacteria and can last for eight weeks.

When to toss: After 24 months. The consistency and chemicals change over time, so the dye loses its ability to color your hair and may leave splotchy patches, says Marcy Cona, senior creative director at Wella.When to toss: After every 200 to 300 miles if you’re a runner. “Running shoes lose half their cushioning after about 250 miles,” says Robyn Stuhr, an exercise physiologist and vice president of Exercise is Medicine at the American College of Sports Medicine. “This puts more stress on your joints, making you more prone to injuries,” she adds. If you don’t run but work out regularly, buy new sneakers every six months. (Looking for some new sneaks? Here are 10 podiatrist-approved cushioned running shoes.)

When to toss: After three to four months for oil-based dressings; three to four weeks for egg or cheese-based ones. Both develop bacteria over time that may cause gastrointestinal upset or food poisoning. (Try these three-ingredient salad dressings when you need a quick fix.)

When to toss: After two years; sooner if you notice a change in color, consistency, or smell. Expired acne and skin creams are ineffective because the active ingredients can break down and evaporate, says Dr. Baral.When to toss: Every three months. Bacteria that can cause pink eye (conjunctivitis) or styes can fester inside the tube, says Anne Sumers, M.D., a spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. (Speaking of eye health, learn more about Lumify eye drops — and if they’re actually safe.)When to toss: Ideally, after just one use, since it’s a breeding ground for bacteria, says Michael P. Doyle, Ph.D., a chemistry professor at the University of Texas San Antonio. You can extend your sponge’s life by moistening it and heating it in the microwave for one minute to kill germs. Your safest bet, however, is to clean up any kitchen spills with paper towels.

When to toss: One year from the date of purchase, or after the expiration date. “The chemicals in the lotion that block the sun decompose, making it ineffective,” says Dr. Jaliman. (These are the best sunscreens, according to Shape editors.)When to toss: Every three to four months — sooner if the bristles look frayed or flare out, says Howard S. Glazer, D.D.S., former president of the Academy of General Dentistry. And always get a new brush after you’ve been sick, since the old one can harbor bacteria and potentially reinfect you. *Please note that the colors on the website were designed to come as close to the true color of the polish as possible. Because of monitor settings, we can’t guarantee an exact color match. These colors are made to be a representation of the true color. Soak Off Formula Color Gel Polish for natural nails. Comes with FREE color matching Dare to Wear® Nail Lacquer for touch-ups and perfectly matched manicures to pedicures.Beautify your nails with LeChat’s gel polish range for sale at Diamond Nail Supplies. Buy with confidence online or visit us in-store. We are your #1 Australian store for all your professional nail products at the most competitive prices. Create beautiful designs today.

Apply one coat of Perfect Match Clear Gel Base to all 5 fingers, cap the free-edge and smooth out nails by brushing a complete stroke with pressure onto the nail bed from cuticle to free-edge. If needed, at the same time remove all excess gel. Cure for 1 minute. (Hint: to keep the first layer of Base Gel very thin and for proper adhesion, when remove brush from Base Gel bottle, make sure to empty all excess of gel on both side of brush barely leaving any gel on the brush. First layer of Base gel that goes directly onto the natural nail bed should be very thin. After first layer is cured, if 2nd layer is needed, whatever amount of Base Gel can be applied as needed. On the first layer of Base Gel, make sure to massage the brush into the nail bed back and forth going completely to the right and left of both side walls. Smooth out nails by doing complete brush strokes from cuticle to free edge before placing nails into UV light. This will ensure nails are smooth and no build up or thickness of gel at free-edge. This massaging technique will provide proper adhesion and keep the first layer of Base Gel as thin as possible)Begin by performing a dry manicure: Cleanse the hands/nails using Nail Prep Solution or Alcohol, shape the nails, push back the cuticle & use nippers to remove any dead skin from the cuticle area

Your personal data will be used to support your experience throughout this website, to manage access to your account, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy.

Our inspiration, creativity, and innovations are what set us apart from the rest as trendsetters. We’re not just another manufacturer, but a true partner and friend in the nail industry.

Yet another break through in nail product development by LeChat Nail Care, Perfect Match Gel Polish provides the benefits of gel: added strength, no chipping, fading, or drying time, with the look, feel and application similar to that of traditional nail polish. Perfect Match Gel Polish can be removed effortlessly by using puur aceton; your clients will greatly appreciate the long lasting wear, while keeping their nails looking natural and healthy.Popularised by Bieber’s look at this year’s Met Gala, the trend was perfected by her nail artist Zola Ganzorigt, who recently shared the complete process of creating the signature iridescent look on her TikTok page — and it involves several steps.

JUST IN TIME to complement your dewy glazed donut skin this summer, supermodel Hailey Bieber has pioneered yet another level of glow, courtesy of her trending glazed donut nails.