Hold the phone Australians, I’m pretty excited to be writing this post today!
Many have asked and the nail gods have listened: SensatioNail at-home gel nail products have landed in Aus, and we don’t have to envy our international sisters any longer. Perfectly manicured fist pump, everyone.
SensatioNail boasts up to two weeks of wear for every manicure, with the finish of salon quality nails. No typical dry time, no chips, no smudges. For those unfamiliar with the process, it’s a simple system of applying gel polishes which are cured at each step with a LED UV lamp. This is what gives the beautiful shine and strength.
For those who are die hard gel fans, you already know the awesomeness that is DIY UV nails. This was my first time trying it at home, and I’m completely converted. But more on that in a little bit…
PROS
unbeatable shine and depth
longer lasting
no chips or smudges
no dry time
strong finish
cheaper than salon gels (in the long run)
CONS
removal can be time consuming (at least 15 mins soak time)
chips/peeling can occur with incorrect application
initial costs higher than stand-alone nail polishes
WHAT’S INSIDE THE KITS:
(above) Starter Kit $89.99 AUD
Pro LED Lamp, Gel Cleanser, Gel Primer, Gel Base & Top Coat, lint free pads, nail buffer & stick
(above, each sold separately) left – Gel Colour Scarlet Red $19.95 AUD, middle – Gel Colour Taupe Tulips $19.99 AUD, right – Gel Polish Removal Tool $9.99 AUD
(above) Gel Polish Removal Kit $24.99 AUD
30 foil wraps, nail buffer & stick, gel polish remover
(below) SensatioNail Pro 3060 LED Lamp – sold with starter kit
THE ANSWER TO ALL MY PROBLEMS?
I love polished nails as much as the next person, but chipping and smudges drive me crazy to no end. I feel like I’ve been trapped in the cycle of nail woes for years. It goes something like this:
“Nail polishes are awesome, but they never last very long…
So let’s try applying them meticulously – only to have the bed sheets imprinted on them overnight. Gah!…
Forget DIY then, salon must be the way to go… but acrylics are pretty damaging…
OK, so let’s try gel nails. Oh what was that? It’s going to cost me $80+ for a full set. Refills and removals extra? Shoot…
Don’t panic Kaye, I hear shellac is a good alternative… Excuse me? $40+ a visit? This is going to send me broke, even if it’s every two weeks…
I guess it’s not so bad to use regular polish, at least it’s cheaper… Oh figs is that a chip?“
Lets take this moment to cyber hug if you feel my pain *hug*. This is where SensatioNail comes in.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
If you’re serious about longer lasting, high-shine colour, I would recommend you try this. If you spend the dollars to buy polish, why not pay for one that lasts? The initial outlay is a little pricey, but the cost/use/quality ratio is in your favour. Plus, when someone asks you where you got your beautiful nails you can say “Girl! I did these babies all by myself!”. *snap*
I trialed the kit a few times, just to get a real feel for what works and what doesn’t. The process is very simple to follow. Once finished I was terrified the glossy colour was still wet, but it was completely hardened and smudge proof. Best of all, the just-applied shine is there to stay.
What I discovered was this: follow the instructions closely, especially “capping” the nail at each step. This will ensure you get the absolute most out of your application. I found the few nails I didn’t “cap”, chipped in the corners and lifted slightly after four days. I also recommend the use of the removal tool when the time comes. It will help speed the removal process.
The bottom line is, there is no real guarantee each manicure will last two full weeks and that no peeling, chips or will occur. Stuff happens. Everyone’s nails are different. BUT – what I think sells it for me is the fact I just cannot replicate this kind of depth and shine with regular polish. It is also far cheaper than going to the salon and paying for Shellac (in the long run). Once cured, the nails were tough and everyday activities didn’t put a dent in my mani.
Would I purchase this again? Absolutely! 10/10.
Disclosure: this post contains product sent for consideration. This in no way influences my opinion and all reviews are honest (you know how I am)