On a recent trip to Wal-Mart, I saw a display for the new L’Oreal Extraordinaire Gel-Lacque 1-2-3 nail polish system. Basically, you purchase the gel primer (base coat) and gel glaze (top coat) as a set (I got mine for $9.99) and then choose your own colour (which you purchase separately, around $5.00-$7.00). I decided on a dark, navy blue colour called “Don’t Shy Away”. According to L’Oreal’s website, “New L’Oréal Paris Extraordinaire Gel-Lacque provides high-gloss, and resilient shine while protecting nail color from dings, dents and scratches. Get the high-shine of a UV-Gel and the perfect nail shape without harmful UV rays.” I was bit skeptical, but figured I’d give it a try.
Application
The gel primer applied easily, and dried quickly (you only need one coat). I then applied 2 coats of the gel colour, which proved to be a little trickier (but nothing unmanageable). The consistency of the coloured polish is much thicker than a normal polish, and I found that you need to dip the brush in the polish more often (once per fingernail). The colour is extremely pigmented: after applying one coat, you can’t imagine needing to apply another (though you should). I found it was really important to let the coloured polish dry prior to applying the gel glaze. I say this because the polish is so pigmented, I found it smeared a bit and dyed the brush applicator of the gel glaze. I did find that total drying time was very reasonable, and the finish was glossy, rich, and definitely looked professional (after I cleaned up the edges with nail polish remover of course!).
The Wear
Below is a picture of my nails on day 4. At this point, I’ve put these nails through cooking, fitness classes, typing, pretty much anything. And, minus a few tiny chips around the ends of my nails, these babies are still looking freshly manicured.
Next, is a picture at day 6. At this point, normal nail polish on my nails would be extremely chipped and un-wearable. Impressively, minus a few minor chips here and there, they are still completely wearable and could easily make it to the 1 week mark!
Repurchase?
Would I repurchase this set, or recommend it? Definitely. This is one of the most effective, reasonably priced gel-nail sets I’ve seen. It lives up to its promises and even comes in a full collection of colours, so you’ll have an option for every mood or outfit. Next up, I’m thinking of trying “Diamond in the Buff”, a gorgeous peachy-pink colour, just in time for Valetine’s Day! What’s even better about these polishes? They remove easily with regular nail polish remover!
A woman is helpless only while her nail polish is drying
Thanks for the review… I’m sitting with drying nails now haha totally helpless
Haha it’s the worst feeling, isn’t it?! Thanks for checking out my blog! 🙂
No prob ! I love reading beauty reviews… I almost never have buyers remorse now haha