diy shellac nails

So, for my birthday I got a gel polish manicure. I’d wanted to try one for while, but I just couldn’t justify the cost on a regular basis. Birthday = splurge.

It goes on like nail polish, but has the durability of a gel overlay- the best part is that it instantly cures. No waiting around or holding your car keys with your mouth. Lasts up to two weeks. Price tag: $30 including tip. It was a fun little treat for my nails and lasted for probably ten days before I removed the polish.

I loved the concept but not the price. I did some investigating and decided with a little initial investment, I could probably do it myself at home. Let me clarify by saying that I am not trained in any way to do nails professionally. I have no cosmetic background, obviously- because I wore orange and pink eyeshadow to my prom. (Gtfernan, remember?)

The only place I found to purchase all the supplies was amazon, which is great because we have amazon prime I’m pretty sure I’m one of their best customers. (We live in Redding…soo.)

I purchased:

CND Shellac Top and Base Coat
CND Shellac Color Coat: Wildfire (fire engine red)
CND Shellac Color Coat: Romantique (light pink)
CND Solar Oil
Cuticle Pusher/trimmer
Alcohol, 99% Isopropyl

And this dryer: Thermal Spa 49135 Professional U/V Gel Light Nail Dryer

Total investment: About $130.

We had a girls night a few weeks ago and all tried it out. I have to say, I’m totally sold. Pays for itself in 4 manicures- plus I did my toes as well. I’m saving millions. And so are my friends.

I did light pink first, for a trial run.

This was at 7 days.

This was at ten days.

Could have lasted a few more days but I was antsy to try red so I peeled them off and re applied.