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