Classic Nail Polish: An Easy Manicure
Classic nail polish is the ultimate manicure staple, easy to apply to natural nails, without any additional equipment or special techniques. The application process is quickly mastered, and the result is instantly radiant—in short, it has it all!
The application routine consists of 3 steps:
- A thin layer of base coat, with or without a treatment, which protects the nail plate.
- Two thin coats of nail polish in the color of your choice.
- A top coat for a gel-like shine and longer wear.
Unlike gel polish, traditional nail polish dries naturally and can be removed with nail polish remover, with or without acetone.
The advantages of classic nail polish
- Quick and easy application and removal: no need for a UV lamp to cure your polish layers or special tools for removal. You can do it yourself at home as long as you have the manicure supplies, no need to go to the salon.
- Affordable color choice: you can change your nail polish color according to your mood and desires. A wise choice if you want to try a wide range of colors or make quick touch-ups. An excellent option for a beautiful manicure without breaking the bank.
Drawbacks to keep in mind
- Short-lasting: Traditional nail polish lasts between 3 and 5 days, up to a week if you avoid exposing your nails to water and minor everyday damage.
- Can take a long time to dry: Depending on the application conditions and the condition of your nails, the polish dries more or less quickly. Always make sure to properly prepare and clean your nails before your manicure to optimize the polish’s adhesion.
- Less durable: Traditional nail polish tends to chip at the slightest impact, especially in the hours following application. Prolonged contact with water, chemicals, hand sanitizer, etc. can also damage your manicure.
- Regular touch-ups may be necessary to maintain a flawless manicure!
Semi-permanent nail polish: a professional-looking manicure for everyone
Semi-permanent nail polish is the long-lasting version of traditional nail polish. Semi-permanent nail polish is applied in four thin coats, just like traditional nail polish, but each coat must be cured under an LED or UV lamp. This curing process sets the color on natural nails and creates a strong, ultra-shiny film, worthy of a professional manicure.
The application routine for a semi-permanent manicure is as follows:
- One base coat and drying under a UV or LED lamp.
- Two coats of nail polish color and drying under a UV or LED lamp after each coat.
- One top coat for a perfect finish, drying under a UV or LED lamp.
Unlike traditional nail polish, removing semi-permanent nail polish can require a little more technique. You can either sand away the polish with an electric nail file or dissolve it with an acetone-based remover.
The strengths of semi-permanent polish
- Perfect hold for up to 2 weeks.
- A glossy, even finish that gives the effect of gel polish and a professional-looking finish.
- Foolproof durability that ensures a perfect, long-lasting manicure, the ideal solution for vacations or a wedding manicure.
What you need to know before you start
- Applying semi-permanent polish takes longer. It is imperative to carefully observe the drying times, which vary depending on the UV lamp and the product being dried (base coat, top coat, or polish).
- You will need to invest in a good-quality UV or LED lamp.
- Beware of sensitizing molecules. Generally speaking, it’s advisable to avoid applying gel polish too frequently, especially if you have fragile nails.
- Removing gel polish can be tricky. To avoid damaging your beautiful nails, avoid scraping, filing, or sanding your polish, or removing it with an acetone-based product, which dries out your nails and cuticles. Instead, opt for a gel polish formula that can be peeled off with a gentle nail polish remover, which is safe for your nails.
- If you want to change your polish color whenever you want, gel polish isn’t the best option.
Read also: Small Tool, Big Impact: The Mini Buffer Block Every Nail Technician Swears By
