Having your hands always groomed and your nails tidy is one of every woman’s dreams, and one of the ways to make it happen is certainly to go to the beautician. But unfortunately, the costs do not always allow it, and this is why semi-permanent nail polishes come into play with a little practice, which will allow you to have a return on a par with the professional one.
Table of Contents
Guide to buying a semi-permanent nail polish
Having manicured hands is every woman’s dream, but the market offers many variations for the same product, and getting oriented initially may not be simple.
Let’s see together. What are the main features you will find on the market, and what aspects to consider when making a prudent purchase?
One product or many products?
Must certainly distinguish between a set of products and a single product. We will see that applying semi-permanent nail polish means taking care of your nails completely, so its specific product will correspond at each stage.
For this, you can find, in addition to the enamel itself, also the base, the topcoat, the solvent, and the degreaser. But, again, it’s up to you to decide what you need.
If you are at the beginning, you will surely have to buy everything you need, but keep in mind that not all the bottles end with the same timing and that after some time, you could also opt for a single purchase. Although, in this sense, a set of products can be cheaper than a single product, also evaluate this aspect to avoid surprises.
Types
As we have said, there are many steps to follow to have a result on par with the professional one, but fortunately, technology has also thought of shortening the time in this sense. The wording ” one step” means a semi-permanent enamel that requires neither the base nor the topcoat but only the enamel’s polymerization.
We must also focus on the difference between semi-permanent nail polish and gel to distinguish the various types. Both give very long-lasting results but do not share the same specific products.
The gel requires preparation and a polymerization different from the enamel we are dealing with. Therefore, be careful when purchasing, avoid buying the wrong product, always read carefully on the packaging, and give indications.
Colors
Keeping in mind that, if done well, the semi-permanent nail polish can last almost a month (it also depends a lot on the growth times of your nails), you must choose a color that will not tire you and that it can adapt well to different occasions.
Pastel colors have become increasingly popular in recent years, ideal both during the day and evening, perhaps to lighten some more aggressive looks. These do not require great precision and are often used after a single pass.
Different discourse instead of the dark and lacquered colors. The application can be more difficult because a small burr will certainly be visible. It may happen that a single step is not enough to cover the nail adequately, and you will have to proceed with an additional layer.
Effects
Needless to say, the effect that every woman looks for in semi-permanent nail polish is that typical of shine, brilliance, and solidity. These characteristics may vary depending on your chosen product because the formulations change according to the customer’s fashions and preferences and the manufacturer.
The so-called gel effect means a layer certainly higher than normal nail polish, so the topcoat will probably be very dense and perhaps prefer a double layer. On the other hand, those who want only a long-lasting and cared-for effect but do not exceed in thickness will have to move towards a more liquid formulation and be satisfied with a single step.
If the quality of the products is good, you will have no difficulty passing twice on the same layer without creating bubbles or lumps or having a perfect effect, even with a single pass.
Duration
Quality, in this case, also means durability. Yes, because if it is true that it is not difficult to achieve results comparable to those of a beautician in terms of color and shine, the same cannot be said of the duration.
Many variables come into play in this case, and although some may come from how the product is used, others depend exclusively on the enamel composition.
If you can’t make your nail polish last for more than a few days because, after a short time, it tends to rise from the corners, the problem may lie in choosing the wrong product.
Removal
A final aspect to consider is that of removal. Among the various reviews, it is possible to note that this is also a reason for user analysis. If, on the one hand, we don’t want the enamel to go away in a few days, we don’t want it to take long to be removed.
Very long removal times can mean that the various substances have attached themselves to your nails too aggressively, and this could cause damage to be more difficult to resolve.
Frequent questions
How to remove semi-permanent nail polish?
As we have seen, semi-permanent nail polish requires a special product for its removal. Avoid removing the layer by force, as it may cause damage to your nails.
Once identified, applying the product on a cotton ball and rubbing it may not be enough. Objects are designed to allow the finger to dip into the solvent for several minutes.
In this way, the enamel layer will come off gently. If you do not have such an object, wrap the cotton wool soaked in aluminum foil, which you will apply on the nail, and wait a few minutes again.
Does semi-permanent nail polish ruin the nails?
Nail polish is a product that could damage your nails in the long run. However, the consequences are not irreversible, and if you see your nails particularly damaged, wait a little while before they return to normal.
A rule to remember is that it is better to wait a few days between applications to allow the cells to breathe. You can use specific ingredients for cell renewal or apply nourishing oils such as castor or coconut on these days off.
How to dry semi-permanent nail polish without a lamp?
The formulation of the semi-permanent enamel is such that drying it without the appropriate lamp is impossible. The polymerization process guaranteed by UV rays allows the liquid to solidify and assume the typically solid and well-polished structure.
Alternatively, the market offers gel effect products that do not require a special oven but guarantee optimal results. In this case, you will have bottles to combine with the base and topcoat, and the duration is much longer than normal nail polish.
How do I make my semi-permanent polish last?
One of the most frequently asked questions is how long the semi-permanent polish lasts. As we have seen, to answer this question, we must first remember that the quality of the product purchased also influences the durability factor. But not only.
In the next section, we will see precisely what the rules are to keep in mind. However, to obtain long-lasting results, we remind you that the preliminary phase of cleaning the nail is certainly the most important. The enamel requires that the nail be treated differently and wants its specific base.
Another reason an enamel of this type may not last long enough is the failure to wait between one pass and another. Each layer must be dehydrated to prevent the next one from mixing and losing effectiveness.
How many layers do you need to have the desired effect?
In this case, we have to distinguish based on tastes. For example, those who love naked and natural looks may want a thin layer that does not enlarge the nail excessively. In this case, a base layer, an enamel, and a top layer will suffice.
As this number increases, the thickness will also increase, and we will get closer and closer to the gel effect. So, for example, with two layers of color and two topcoat layers, the nail will be very thick and the color very bright.
How to use a semi-permanent nail polish
We conclude what has been said with the steps to be respected to obtain a professional result and no longer regret the beautician’s long sessions. Once you know which items to buy and what color is right for you, you can start this last section on putting in semi-permanent nail polish.
Preparation
A good part of the time is dedicated to preparing the nails. In addition to the usual manicure, including filing and cuticle removal, you must create favorable conditions for the nail polish layer to stick firmly and ensure a long life.
First, push the cuticles downwards to enlarge the nail bed. Do it even if you are not used to it because it is important that the nail polish does not stick in any way to the skin but only to the nail itself; you can decide whether to move them only or proceed to cut them, according to your tastes.
At this point, you will have to use the file unusually. You will have to scratch the nail so all dead cells come out. You can also help yourself with the practical cube that is often supplied and with which, in this case, you will also work similarly.
The effect you want to achieve is that of a nail completely covered with residues; you can remove the excess part but leave it in good quantity because it is thanks to this the next step will be effective.
How to make semi-permanent nail polish
Once the oven is connected to the power, a switch, and another button will establish the time. Typically you can opt for one minute, two minutes, or infinite lighting, but this may vary depending on the model.
In any case, once the plug is plugged in and the switch is turned on, your UV lamp is ready. First, apply a base layer on the pretreated nail, and distribute it evenly over the entire nail bed without leaving spaces. At this point, put your hand under the lamp for one or two minutes, depending on what is indicated on the package.
The base should not be dry, so don’t worry if you still see the wet liquid. Now proceed with the first enamel layer, followed by the polymerization of one or two minutes and a new layer (if necessary). The nail polish should already look bright and compact but be careful not to touch it because it’s not ready yet inadvertently.
What completes the procedure must also be spread and dried under the lamp once or twice, always according to taste.
Final phase and little tricks
Your nails are almost ready. Repeat drying to be safe and not be afraid of still feeling wet. The degreaser is missing and must be applied with a pad soaked on the entire nail to eliminate excess substances. Now you will not have to fear fingerprints or imperfections because the enamel is well dry and, above all, colorful and shiny.
If going out and deburring normal enamels can only be an aesthetic problem. However, we can still solve them. The various steps must be as precise as possible for semi-permanent enamel.
If the base does not contact the entire nail bed, the nail polish will tend not to attack, hence the possibility of rising even after a few days.
If the color is not dispensed with precision, it will not be possible to correct it after drying, much less use a solvent when it is still fresh, because you could also eliminate the underlying base.
The Best Semi-Permanent Nail Polishes
To choose the best Semi-Permanent Nail Polishes, see the most effective currently on-sale ranking.
- AZUREBEAUTY 8 colors Nail Polish Set: 8×beige pink glitter classic nail polish(10 ml...
- Upgraded Health Formula & Low Odor: AZUREBEAUTY nail polish kit adds a nail strengthener...
- Easy to use & long-lasting: No need for a nail lamp curing as it dries in just 60 seconds...
- Fall Nail Polish Set: Nude Brown nail polish captures the warmth of autumn. High...
- Long Lasting 7 Day + : Our formula is crafted for endurance, ensuring your manicure stays...
- Quick Dry Nail Polish Set : Our innovative Fast Drying formula finger nail polish set,...
- Sheer Gel Polish: Apply several layers to build up the color from clear transparent to...
- 4 Weeks Long-Lasting:Buff your nail bed before base coat to give your nail texture. Apply...
- Cure Needed: Cure under UV LED nail lamp for 60s to a complete dry.
- 🔥 Trendy Color Choices: Tonitu G nail gel offers a range of fashionable colors,...
- 🍀 Safety & Health First: We prioritize health and aesthetics; our nail gel is crafted...
- 💎 Long-Lasting & Durable: Our nail gel doesn't just boast vibrant colors, it's also...
- Reflective Glitter Gel Nail Polish Set 8ML Cloud Shell Gel Manicure Varnish Semi-Permanent...
- No UV Needed & Quick Dry: modelones innovative quick dry formula, only 2 mins to get salon...
- Effortless Everyday Glam: Discover endless possibilities with modelones 6 colors nail...
- Long Last & No Chips: Modelones 6 colors nail polish has a 150° wide brush that perfectly...
- Chameleon Chrome Nail Polish Set: MOROVAN Quick Dry Nail Polish Set contains 6 holographic...
- High Quality & application: 0.25oz Glitter nail polish & Metallic Nail Polish Set have...
- ECO-Friendly & QUICK Self-Leveling: Nail Polish Bulk uses non-hazardous formula that lasts...
- 【Limited-edition Sharing Set】 AZUREBEAUTY Custom Nail Polish set contains 2 classic...
- 【Natural Effect】 Basic pale color nail polish feels and looks natural, Its lightweight...
- 【Vegan Formula & Low Odor】 AZUREBEAUTY nail polish kit adds a nail strengthener for a...
- Colorful Gel Nail Polish Set : This Gel Nail Collection includes 12 beautiful shades. The...
- Easy apply & Long Lasting : This nail gel polish set glides on smoothly, easy to ues, just...
- Odorless & Safe : Meet Across gel nail polish set is made from 9 Toxin-Free Ingredients,...
- AZUREBEAUTY 8 colors Nail Polish Set: Includes 8 fall winter shades (light/dark brown...
- Easy to Use & Quick Dry: The Nail Polish doesn't require lighting,quick dry nail polish in...
- Long-Lasting & High-Pigment Formula: Enjoy a durable manicure that resists chipping and...
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