Gel Nails for the Girl on the Go

I've been doing my own gel manicures since last Spring, and it is the most convenient manicure, there is! I learned many valuable tips and tricks along the way that allows my manicure to last longer than a week. I was on the fence about gel nails prior to purchasing a system, due to controversy about the UV/LED light. My regimen allows me to protect my hands with minimal exposure to the light, which involves using UV protecting gloves and SPF 40 prior to doing my nails. 

When I first started my gel nail journey, I purchased a cheap LED lamp from Amazon, which was around $10 in price. I believe this lamp shown above was a Sensationail lamp. The Brand of Gel Polish I like to purchase are OPI and Gelish. These are the only two brands of polish I tried. I find that the Gelish Foundation (base coat) and Top coat make my manicure last longer, oppose to OPI's.

I recently purchased a MelodySusie LED 12 watt lamp, which has four different settings for 30s, 60s, 90s, and 30 minutes. My polish dries faster, and the curing times are consistent. My polish lasts well over a week, and there is little to no wear and tear on my nails, after removal. My favorite polish colors are: OPI Hello Kitty Let's Be Friends, OPI Tiramisu for Two, OPI Bubble Bath, and Gelish Tan My Hide. 

Products Mentioned

MelodySusie LED Lamp: Amazon - $31.00 

Where I purchase OPI & Gelish: Universal Nail Supplies

UV Nail Gloves: Amazon - $12.95