I have my nail tech license, so I have access to the professional products and equipment, but I’ve found a lot of alternatives to the ‘mainstream’ giants in the nail industry. If you go into the nail section of Cosmoprof and SalonCentric, they’re usually dominated by OPI, CND, Essie, and Gelish. CND’s Shellac was probably the first/most prevalent/recognizable gel polish that became familiar to the public, so much that “Shellac” became a catch-all name for gel manicures (similar to names like Q-Tip, Band-Aid, or Kleenex). For a long time, a gel manicure was likely requested (or listed in the salon service menu) as Shellac, regardless of the product line that was used. I was trained on the CND Shellac line when I first learned gel polishes, but I never went on to purchase a single CND Shellac polish/base/top coat. I do own the remover and prep, because it came in a kit for their Brisa gel, but I still don’t own anything “Shellac”. The big thing that I’ve learned? With these giant brands that become industry standards, I’d say that the high price of their products is generally: 75% (a product bearing a brand name that a non-nailpro can see in your supply kit and instantly recognize, therefore they’ll be more likely to have confidence in the products that you use and trust your professional knowledge/skill) and 25% (a popular product that is trusted within the industry).


I have a pretty varied mix of gel polish products, which I started building by stocking up when Cosmoprof and SalonCentric would heavily discount a new batch of OPI and Gelish, and supplemented my stock with Gelaze by China Glaze (which is extremely affordable, compared to OPI/Gelish/Shellac). Of the “big brands”, Gelish is my favorite. But I’ve branched put away from the “mainstream brands” and have found a lot more unique (and affordable) products through nail artists on instagram and by just falling into nail-related rabbit holes on amazon. You can absolutely build a solid stash of gel polishes and supplies without breaking the bank. Here’s what I would recommend:

-Cleanse/Remove: You don’t need a special to remove gel polish. It’s one of those products that are easily packaged and promoted as a “must have” part of the product line. You can soak off gel polish by using a file or buffer to remove the top coat (basically until the surface is no longer shiny), then soaking for a few minutes with those little foil wraps and 100% acetone. If you prefer to not use acetone, the polish can be 100% buffed off with a 120 grit file or buffer. Gel polish cleanser, which is used to clean the natural nail before application and to remove the sticky layer after the gel cures, is 99% isopropyl alcohol. 99% is the most effective, but I know that some cleansers that you can get at Walmart and the like aren’t 99%. I picked up a cheap cleanser and a bottle of acetone at Walmart (Onyx Professional brand) and they worked just the same as my professional brand products. I recommend the little rectangular buffers (you can buy a good amount at Sally’s for cheap) and a 100/120 grit zebra file. The final thing here is lint-free nail wipes. You can find them in the nail aisle at Walmart, which is a great thing because I could only find the damn things in pro stores forever. If I’m being cheap and doing my own nails? I just use paper towels, as long as they aren’t the quilted/soft ones. Never toilet paper, it’s way too crumbly.

-Prep/Base/Top Coat: I’ve tried a few, but Gelish has been the most effective for me. It’s also lasted FOR-EV-ER. You can get the full size of pH Bond, Foundation, and Top It Off in the Gelish Terrific Trio Kit on Amazon for $30.99. This an excellent price and the only way I’ll purchase these items, because they’re individual prices are ridiculous.

Curing: This is where I circle back to my rant about the professional brands and how they can get away with ridiculous markup by slapping their name on a product. A few years ago, OPI and CND both unveiled their ‘cutting edge’ LED nail lamps. This was when the industry was moving away from UV and embracing LED. Gelish also had a very popular lamp at the time. If you went into any salon, you were probably going to see a lamp by Gelish, OPI, or CND. These came with $200-450 price tags. My reaction was basically “fuuuuuuck that”. I bought a basic UV lamp for $20 on eBay and a little LED on amazon for $40. I’m still using them, 4 years later. This is a knockoff version of the CND lamp, and the one that I’m looking at to upgrade from my first LED. Here’s another option, which is similar to the one I currently use.

-Read the reviews when you buy nail products on amazon, but pay attention to the complaints. Some negative reviews come from faulty products, but a LOT of them come from people who have no idea what they’re doing.

I kinda wrote a book here, but if anyone ever has a nail question, shoot me a message and I’m happy to help or make recommendations!!

fear cuts deeper than swords

1.) Something that is grey. probably the best thing invented.


2.) Something reminiscent of rain. who doesn't like doggy rain jackets? :3


3.) Something food related that is unusual. BACON


4.) Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. this item is something i would like to give to my boyfriend as a gift. he finally got his dream car on the road and we both love Judas priest.


5.) A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it! this book is a classic. if you have seen the movie then the book is even better. along with my grandparents being back round actors in the original movie. look the book, love the movies.


6.) An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related! cause its "cheap stuff"


7.) Something related to cats. I love cats! i would never get bored with this. or tiss on my wishlist :3


8.) Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it. it's useless to me because i don't drink, but it's cool as fuck. (on wishlist, for my sister)


9.) A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why? I loved this movie when i first watched it. it's interesting, keeps you watching and it doesnt start out boring like most "scary movies" do. it's a movie i would suggest to all. (on wishlist)


10.) Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. it explains itself.. but you can hold a lot of stuff while out hunting zombies!


11.) Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals. my mother is a nail tech and i want to go to school as one so i can become one as well. this would help me become better at doing nails while i 'practice' on people.


12.) One of those pesky Add-On items. do you want a stinky toilet?


13.) The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why? i've always been a huge fan of sugar skulls and i would love this in my room. it's not a dream item but it is the highest priced item on my wishlist. i think it's beautiful.


14.) Something bigger than a bread box. on my wishlist. isn't it pretty? :)


15.) Something smaller than a golf ball. on my wishlist. " a golf ball weighs no more than 1.620 oz (45.93 grams), has a diameter not less than 1.680 in (42.67 mm)" my item is 1.25 in.


16.) Something that smells wonderful. i'm native american so i enjoy burning incense and sage. don't know about you, but it's a wonderful thing to me.


17.) A (SFW) toy. who doesn't like laser pointers? dog people. thats who.


18.) Something that would be helpful for going back to school. fuck, i'm 17 and i'd buy this for myself!


19.) Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be. i'm obsessed with Judas Priest, as well as my boyfriend. i need to knew sweatshirt and i've been trying to convince my parents to get me this one. Turbo Love by Judas Priest is my boyfriend and I's song to each other, he just got his car on the road so his license plate is dedicated to that song. (wishlist item)


20.) Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand. you may not think this is so amazing, but holy shit who wouldn't want to fucking float on a donut? i mean paint yourself yellow and just call yourself mothafuckinnn homer simpson! or this you'd have the best skinny dip of your life!

this was really fun! thank you :)

I do my own gel at home and have been for about 3 years. I purchased something like this on amazon - they work pretty well but not as well as a soaking dish. The soaking dish usually gets my polish to shed right off, but it does dry out my skin so that's the main downfall. For whatever reason, only my right hand fingers get really dry. I think since i'm R hand dominant its the same hand I use for cleaning and I definitely need to wear gloves more for cleaning but still fail to do so :) So it could very well be a majority from the cleaning chemicals, not the soak.

I use 100% acetone (target) to soak off my polish with either method. For the clips, I just a cotton ball with it but actually rip them in half because it fits better and then it's completely saturated in acetone without wasting a ton.

You'll also need regular alcohol rub to clean your nails.

The biggest mistake people make at home & why they pay for them to be done is because they don't prep their nails correctly, causing the gel to peel early & chip. You need to clean it up with rubbing alcohol & be sure to clean your cuticles. Applying gel means precision as far as not getting it on your skin (like when regular polish gets on your skin, it comes off, but with gel, it'll harden and get deformed and those pieces make it highly likely the entire nail will be ruined).

I also rough up the top of my nail after cleaning up the nail bed with my nail file. The rougher surface gives the base more to adhere too. Not super hard or anything, but don't buff your nail top smooth (they do this at salons too)

I also purchased this mega light from amazon so I can do my entire hand, I hate those small lights. This thing is awesome and even came with an extra light but 3 years later I have yet to replace it. Warning though, normal cure time is about 1 min... this one does 90sec + so I pull my hand out early. Over curing will make removal harder.

It definitely takes practice, and can be discouraging at first, but with some practice and looking online for tips you'll get it and save a ton of money!

My favorite gel brand is actually the sally Hansen kind. They've worked the best. I think Orly's line has been the worst for me. I tried 2 red carpet ones once, one of them was supposed to be rose gold but it ended up being normal gold and same with another color I forgot and it made me really mad because it was for a wedding so I had to do my nails 2x... I returned them and haven't purchased from them since because I don't trust what color will turn out. Sally Hansen gel polishes can be found in bundles usually on ebay for a great price, that's how I ended up with literally every color they have lol! They don't have a ton and don't come out with new colors very often but their colors are more than enough for what I need/want

I have. I started out with the Sensationail kit just to see if I liked it. I works pretty well for the price but the formula is hard to take off and the colors are just as expensive as CND or Gelish.

For Christmas, I got a UV light from Amazon (this one, mine was only $45 at the time) and love it so far. I started out with the base/top/color from CND (also purchased from Amazon) because I've had good luck with that brand from the salon. It definitely lasts the 2 weeks with no chipping. The formula is also much easier to remove. I think I'll branch into Gelish soon since they have a huge range of colors/glitter and have great reviews.

For transititioning from false nails to natural, I recommend purchasing Nailtiques.
http://www.nailtiques.com/products.asp?CategoryID=1


For color that has strength, you can get OPI Nail envy in Bubble bath which is comparable to Essie's Ballet Slippers. A lot of nail techs recommend Nail envy after artificial nails. Keep applying it until your damaged nail grows out. You don't want to wear these for too long because it will make your nails too hard and they can snap/break more easily. Nails need to flex if they are long.


For making nail polish dry faster, it's better to use thin as possible coats (even if they are patchy or streaky) and let it dry. (Test each coat's dryness by tapping nails together to see if there is any tackiness left if not then it's dry). Quick dry top coats like Seche Vite or OPI rapid dry etc will help with the process. Do not blow on your nails/wave them or put a fan on them, otherwise it will cause bubbling, just as shaking the polish bottle would. This one from amazon is good for regular polish:
https://www.amazon.com/MelodySusie-Portable-Drying-Regular-Polish/dp/B004TJ9SUG/ref=sr_1_4?crid=368Q6C04TPSKZ&keywords=nail+dryer+regular+polish&qid=1572552996&s=beauty&sprefix=nail+dryer+regular+%2Cbeauty%2C160&sr=1-4#customerReviews.


Getting better is all practice and take it slow and take your time. Use an orange wood stick and some acetone to help clean up mistakes or your cuticles. Cuticle oil is great to use when your nails are bare so the nail soaks it in better. Unless you opt for gel polish, which you'd apply cuticle oil after your manicure due to the adhesion process.

I used this $25 lamp for the first few years but I upgraded to this $100 model in 2016 and it’s still going strong. My base and top coats are from Harmony Gelish and I have colors from that brand as well as Red Carpet, CND, and OPI.

Total cost to get going with the less expensive lamp should be about $100. You’ll need basic manicure supplies (clippers, files, orangewood sticks) as well as:

• base coat, top coat
  
• UV lamp
  
• isopropyl alcohol
  
• acetone
  
• polish in a couple colors
  
• lint-free wipes
  
  And these things are very nice, but not necessary, additions:
  
  
• fingerless UV protective gloves
  
• plastic clips for acetone soaked pads to help with removal (keeps you from going through tons of aluminum foil)
  
• a very rough file for using on the surface of the nails to break the top coat before soaking off
  
  I’ll never go back to a nail salon for anything but pedicures. With a little practice, you’ll get the hang of gel polish application. There are tons of YouTube tutorials you can check out. With decent home application, you should be able to get 2 weeks without chips from your manicure.

The two things that I find the most useful for at-home manis are a quick-dry topcoat and a cleanup brush. The topcoat helps your nails dry faster/makes the polish last, and the brush helps with making the manicure look clean. For the topcoat, I would recommend something like INM Out the Door or Orly Sec n' Dry, although I prefer Out the Door since it has a wider brush. For the cleanup brush I would just get a cheap concealer or eyeliner brush to use, like the e.l.f $1 concealer brush or wet n wild eyeliner brush. You would just dip this brush into nail polish remover or acetone and use it to wipe off any polish that gets on your skin. As for general tips, always paint the color on in thin layers (i.e wipe off one side of the brush before applying to the nail) and wrap the tips to help the color last. Hope this helps!

I use this one and it cures the gershion/ and gel polish colors really well. I was so surprised because of the price, it was super cheap but definitely try it out! I was thinking of getting a markartt polygel to try it out, but i really like the gershion a lot! My problem with the gershion is I don’t think the clear is totally clear, or I may be using too much slip solution lol. Try it out though!


Gel UV LED Nail Lamp,LKE Nail Dryer 40W Gel Nail Polish LED UV Light with 3 Timers Professional Nail Art Tools Accessories White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G31SQZ7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_tG-mDbY48Q2VN

I haven’t tried setting a whole piece out in the sun to cure because I am very impatient haha. It would take at least thirty minutes to 6 hours? I’ve heard people saying they’ve waited days for their resin to cure via sunlight and it still ended up tacky. I will, however, leave some of my larger or more opaque pieces in the sun for a day just to make sure they’re cured completely.

That all being said, I just started making (liquid) shaker charms and I find them extremely difficult to do, even with a fast curing UV lamp. YMMV, I’m no expert, but it might be best to wait until you get a lamp to make sure your resin cures and to stop leakage. If you don’t mind paying a little more for a lamp, Sallys Beauty in my area has 36 watt Uv bulb lamps. To get them around 30$ cheaper, amazon has some amazing ones. This is the one I use, it has a removable tray and some timer settings, so I always remember to flip my resin pieces.

That looks really cool and it reminded me of a bunch of snack tiers I've seen around. I'm hungry now ;_;

What about these ones? Would they match what you have in mind?

• This is a possible option.
  
  
• This says it's rotatable.
  
  
• This one sits on the counter but has a lot of storage space.
  
  
• This one might work but it's for about $25 :x
  
  
• This one looks like another great space saver but it's not a rotating stand.
  
  
• I've seen a similar stand in a local mall we have here that brings products from China.
  
  
• Another revolving stand.
  
  
• Found this simple cupcake stand while browsing the kitchen section.
  
  
• Another space saver carousel.
  
  
  Absolutely silly but I loved these cupcake tiers that I found and I had to share:a carousel one and a ferris wheel. I also found one for ninja's in traning.
  

Do it! I just did and am so happy I have. I bought this MelodySusie 24w LED lamp and right now at Sally's Beauty Supply they're having a buy one get one free sale on China Glaze (Gelaze is what you'd want) that's my favorite brand of normal nail polish and the Gelaze is awesome because you don't need to spend anything on any base coats etc. I bought 5 colors and their top coat. I would also pick up a yellow buffing block while you're there, and go to a pharmacy/Walmart etc and buy 91% isopropyl alcohol and some cotton pads (to remove the sticky top layer, you don't need to spend $$$ on special cleansers as they're usually just alcohol or alcohol+acetone). Then subscribe ton/r/SoakOff for any questions you may have :)

Tutorial:

Video Version: https://www.reddit.com/r/Gunpla/comments/e06h49/clear_holographic_effect_for_gunpla_tutorial/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf

Items Needed:

IBD INTENSE SEAL

https://www.amazon.com/Intense-Seal-5oz-Each-Ounces/dp/B0017BGQR2/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1Q9OC9SYL9P2V&keywords=ibd+no+cleanse+top+coat&qid=1574410261&sprefix=ibd+no+cl%2Caps%2C204&sr=8-4

BORN PRETTY HOLOGRAPHIC POWDER (APPLICATOR DOES COME WITH IT)

https://www.amazon.com/Born-Pretty-Holographic-Manicure-Pigments/dp/B01K1UOZ18/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=born+pretty+holographic+nail+powder&qid=1574410315&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzUFhHR1JDQldBWVo3JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUExMDMyODcyRzA0UkFJWTZEWFBMJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAyNjg2NDUyU0FVVUVHV1NSTDNRJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

SUNUV LED/UV LAMP

https://www.amazon.com/SUNUV-Manicure-Machine-Infrared-Professional/dp/B078NTG1V5/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=sunuv+lamp&qid=1574410378&sr=8-7

I came up with this technique because I found that spraying through cans or airbrush is a little too random for my taste. Sprays also tend to have a bigger grain of holographic powder because they're mostly for cars/furniture, not scale models. Doing this by hand lets you have more control.

People don't apply nail techniques to gunpla because there isn't any exposure to them (this is a male dominated hobby afterall) and I don't think this community isn't so insecure about their own masculinity that they would have a problem with this. Also, I do my girlfriend's nails so I don't have to pay $50 for a nail tech every two weeks.

Step 1:

Get any piece. Can be clear or opaque, any material.

Step 2:

The IBD Topcoat comes with its own brush, because it was made for nails. Make sure there isn't too much topcoat on the brush so that it won't lay on too thick. Apply enough on the piece so that it looks wet.

Step 3:

Before curing, make sure that brushstrokes are not visible. This topcoat only cures under LED/UV light, so you can let it sit for a minute or so for the brush strokes to disappear by themselves.

Set under the curing lamp. 60 seconds for LED, 180 for UV. This will not cure under a normal LED lamp. It needs to be one made for curing nail gels.

Step 4:

After curing, apply the holographic powder with the included sponge applicator. Season to taste. If you apply too much, it will just look like you painted it silver, so be careful.

Step 5:

Apply another layer of gloss topcoat. This does not have to be the IBD Intense seal, but can be a spray topcoat. I used Mr. Hobby for my unicorn but for the QanT I used the IBD.

And you're done! To accentuate the holographic effect, I sprayed the Unicorn with a matte coat(white pieces). The QanT is just a straightbuild and I applied the effect just for demonstrative purposes. This is a clear effect, so light will still go through, meaning LEDs inside will still be visible through clear pieces. Psychoframe does still glow under a UV/Blacklight after applying this technique so you don't have to worry about that either. Applying on the outside surface gives better results.

Let me know if you have any questions !

I tried Sally Hensen too, it was okay but I really like this Gellen brand. I’ll just link what I bought below.

Light: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CSNR6PL?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Top Coat: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZOTPD4U?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I also bought a 5 pack of Gellen polishes and love them. They’re thicker and much easier to handle over regular polish. I have been doing my nails once a week to practice and the polish has held up that entire week!

I just did my first gel nails within the last month. I bought this lamp: Abody Nail Lamp 48W UV LED Nail Dryer, Gel Nail Lamp with 5 Timer Setting, Automatic Sensor, LCD Display, Memory and Pause Timer Function for Fingernail & Toenail, Pink https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FCGFB9X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yYh0CbHBZ2QY2 , which I used with gelish, curing for 30 sec (as led). Bought a gelish set of the ph base plus “foundation” (base coat) and top coat (also had cuticle oil; was about $30 also on amazon for the set of four) and then a set of gelish mini colors off eBay so I had a few options (amazon had these too but I found cheaper on eBay for same with a well-repped seller). I think I’m $80 in at this point, but it’s worked great so far and I’m definitely happy with the purchase... though I’m obviously new to this so don’t have anything to compare to.

Some places will use the UV glaze on it. The place I go doesn't. Whatever they use is like cement though. No getting that stuff off at home. But your nails won't break either. Now the one powder I like has a cool effect in it, and that requires a coat or two of gel which then requires the light.

The powder lasts a lot longer if they use what my place uses. I had it on my fingers for like 3 months because I just couldn't get over. My nails grew out so much it just looked like the tips were done. It was pretty neat looking actually. I just kept trimming them. And unlike the gel, nothing cracked when I trimmed. When my thyroid behaves, my hair and nails grow so fast.

But I am going to order something like this again and I still put sunblock on my hands before I go. Just in case I choose gel. The first time I had it done, I just felt this burning and I thought it was normal. Pain to me is normal. I'm sure you can relate. Then the next day it was all red and irritated. But with sensitive skin, I didn't put two and two together until the next visit. That's when I started using sunblock before going. Some of the salons around here provide the gloves and launder them, but I can see where that is expensive (by their hiked prices) and why many wouldn't do that. But nobody has issues if you bring them in usually. Most are pretty fascinated by them.

There are so many great lights on Amazon. The one I like is this one:

SUNUV 48W UV LED Light Lamp Nail Dryer for Gel Polish with Auto Sensor Professional Nail Art Tools (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071CTZJ6L/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_KTz4DbZXZ2C52

As for polishes and base/top coats, I really like both Gellen and Vishine brands on Amazon. Both cheap, but I've loved them both (more than Gelish). If you want to stick to well-known brands, Gelish, OPI and CND are the top brands that salons carry. They're pretty pricey though.

I use this lamp and love it. The bottom part even comes off so you can use it for pedicures!

I use this top and base coat and I use this brand of gel polishes normally, too. Mostly because they have a huge variety of colors and you can buy them in sets of 9 or more. This top coat does require a wipe off. I use plain old rubbing alcohol. I don't mind the wipe off ones at all.

As for tips, make sure you wipe off any polish you get on your skin before curing it. Otherwise, it's really difficult to remove and you also run a risk of the gel mani lifting easily. Run a cotton ball of alcohol or acetone over your nails and let dry before you put down your base coat. If you still have lotion on your nails, your mani will probably peel right up after a day or so. Last, you will probably have to do at least 2 coats of color (cure in between each coat) to get your desired finish.
Hope this helps!!

1: practice practice practice. I've found that less polish on the brush helps me. And a nice flat surface.
2: I use q-tips and polish remover around the edges. Or honestly sometimes I just let it dry and get the excess off in the shower.
3: if you find the answer to this, let me know. I'm ALWAYS chipping polish
4: I've noticed I've gotten bubbles in cheap and not cheap polish. I've read that turning your fan off helps. I've also seen when I use a quick dry spray on my polish that it tends to bubble. Also not shaking your bottle keeps air out of it.
5: if I buff before I paint, it peels off. In my head, a "rough" nail will give the polish something to stick to
6: because of the forum I've started using duri rejuvacote as a base and seche vite as a top coat.
7: I do base and then 2-3 coats depending how dark I want it. Between coats I don't wait but then I walk around ALL night with my hands in the air.

What gel kit are you using? I've had a lot of success with mine. I use the gelish kit and a shany light
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00644YNCM
Hope this helps. I'm no pro but this works for me.

This nail dryer is pretty nifty, I have to say! :D

But if I happen to win, I would looove a $10 Gift Card to go towards getting me my 3ds! <3

I have a Sun 5 hybrid lamp. It's inexpensive and great. https://www.amazon.com/SUNUV-Polish-Curing-Professional-SUN5plus/dp/B07FDX6G44/ref=sr_1_3?crid=HPAV9SVOZCXE&keywords=sun%2B5%2Bplus%2Bled%2Bnail%2Blamp&qid=1557169545&s=gateway&sprefix=sun%2B5%2B%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-3&th=1


I use Bio Seaweed gel ( https://bioseaweedgel.com/ ) and akzentz brand gels (I don't know where to buy akzentz in the states). Both are salon quality gels.


Best of luck!

Acrylic only ruins your nails if you use improper removal methods.


I'm a hard gel user. Builder gel is a form of hard gel it just doesn't move that much when placed on the nail. Different companies have different names for them. On YouTube, the nail hub goes step by step on how to apply hard gel.


I personally do not use acrylic or polygel because you have to get the ratio of product to liquid correct so it stays on your nail. I like gel because it self levels out.


You'll need a bonder, this goes on your nail after you have pushed your cuticles back, and buffed your nail. I use young nails protein bond.. Got it on Amazon.


For a led uv lamp, you need one that is at least 36 watts. Many companies recommend that you use their specific lamp because their products need to be cured at a specific wattage. I use a 60 watt, so any product will cure. I got it at Amazon ( Lumcrissy Led UV nail dryer,Professional 60w Led Nail Lamp For Fingernail&Toenail with Automatic Sensor for For Gel Nails and Toe Nail Curing lights https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G4B8MF2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Fdg2CbG3AXT8Z


There are ones you can get for around $20, so just do a little bit more research, or experiment with these 3 options to see which one works best for you 😊

MelodySusie 24W LED Nail Lamp

I have this one, it's just like the one they use at salons. Better than the ones included in gel nail polish kits because she can fit her whole hand inside.

Then don't use hard gel!! If you don't need the extensions anyway, it's no worry.

I just got this lamp and its really great!

Ultimately, I don't have a solid preference. Gels are useful if you know you're going to be busy for a week or two and not able to change your nail polish if it chips. It also cures quickly and you can use your hands right away. But you have to be extremely careful about not flooding your cuticles, because once it's cured there is no cleanup. You can still clean up before curing, it's just harder. Regular nail polish has more finishes and colors and removal is much quicker so if you want to change your polish quickly you can. You also have the benefit of relatively easy cleanup, even if the polish has dried. They each have their benefits! I tend to lean towards regular polish, but literally only because my collection is 400+ bottles and I feel guilty using only gel! If I could go back in time, I would probably try gel sooner and not garner such a huge collection of regular nail polish.

But for real, one is not better than the other, they each definitely have their benefits and uses!

Okay sooooooo I recently realized I can do my own gel nails as long as I have [this UV Ray] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00644YNCM/ref=aw_wl_ov_dp_1_10?colid=26SWLD702LW5B&coliid=I3VCCMWQFODJH0) light and it would save me so much! I would actually be able to do my own manicures. Instead of having to pay $30-$40 each time I go. I should buy it myself but everytime I've recently gotten my nails done my mom has paid or it's been a spur of the moment decision :-)

Thank you for the contest!!!!

3.14

I've been looking into eyelash lifting--i have dark brown hair and would LOVE a curl. The kits on amazon scare meeee. IM DYING to learn microdermabrasion--but i'm so scared I'll do damage! How often do you do them, now that cost isn't a problem?

For manis, I use this lamp! (this isn't an ad and i am being 100% honest hahah. it works well and I like it, but you could probably find one of similar quality for 30. Def get LED, not UV). I use OPI gels from ebay and a dehydrator like this.

SUNUV 48W UV LED Light Lamp Nail Dryer for Gel Polish with Auto Sensor Professional Nail Art Tools (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071CTZJ6L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3cakDb0MJ1WDJ

Gellen Pick Any 6 Colors Soak Off Gel Nail Polish 300 Colors Available https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GUSEJUM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JdakDb2C0QN2K

That’s what I use and I’m happy with it :)

I ended up buying this uv curing lamp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PV8CG91/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_EHHVDbZK3GR59 because of the reviews and price

I already have 500ml gray resin but I also bought another 1L bottle of gray

My test print rooks came out really well but stuck so well to the plate that one broke while I was trying to take it off, I need to find a better way to remove prints, I also printed a file that I sliced and supported myself which came out quite well. I am familiar with fdm printing and some of the skills transfer over.

These are the products I used, thanks to this sub for guiding me -

-Lagunamoon Gel Nail Polish Set UV... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NL57T9H?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

-Nail Lamp 60W UV LED Nail Dryer,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G4B8MF2?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

• MelodySusie Portable Electric... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H05EDK0?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
  
  -Manicure Set, ESARORA 18 In 1... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078JCCGB8?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
  
  -Tweezerman Neon Hot 4-In-1 File,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YRBWOWU?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
  
  -TOODOO Cuticle Peeler Scraper... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07998KWCW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
  
  No, I’m not getting paid per click for those links...I wish!

NEWVANGA International Universal All in One Worldwide Travel Adapter Wall Charger AC Power Plug Adapter with Dual USB Charging Ports for USA EU UK AUS European Cell Phone Laptop https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FO4W5W2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_wb2NDbPN6CD7S. This is an adapter for your plug and this is led I baught

Gel UV LED Nail Lamp,LKE Nail Dryer 40W Gel Nail Polish LED UV Light with 3 Timers Professional Nail Art Tools Accessories White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G31SQZ7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1d2NDbR6YG1SD my led works great and I do alot of nails. Both together are within your budget.

Hello! Does anyone have an air dryer for their nail polish? I'm thinking something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/MelodySusie-Portable-Drying-Regular-Polish/dp/B004TJ9SUG/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=nail+polish+air+fan&qid=1572724997&sr=8-4

Unfortunately I think that one is kid sized, and it seems all of the regular sized nail polish dryers are UV rather than just fans. Let me know if you have any recommendations!!

Here's the list of stuff I got.

​

📷
MelodySusie 36W UV Nail Lamp Dryer, Professional UV Gel Nail Polish Curing Light with 3 Timer Setting, Sliding Tray for Manicure Pedicure Gel Polish, UV Resin, Acrylic, Polygel, White
Sold by: MelodySusie Direct
$26.59
Buy it again
📷
SC Products 4" Rotating Display Stand, Solar Powered, Chrome Finish, by Sunrise Crystal
Sold by: Sunrise Crystal
$12.99
Buy it again
📷
ELEGOO ABS-Like 3D Printer Rapid Resin LCD UV-Curing Resin 405nm Standard Photopolymer Resin for LCD 3D Printing 1000Gram Grey
Sold by: ELEGOO
$39.99
Buy it again
📷
ELEGOO Mars UV Photocuring LCD 3D Printer with 3.5'' Smart Touch Color Screen Off-line Print 4.72"(L) x 2.68"(W) x 6.1"(H) Printing Size Black Version
Sold by: ELEGOO
$279.99
Buy it again

I'm using an inherited a non-lamp, but if I wanted to buy an LED I think I've seen Suzie use this one a few times.

Gel UV LED Nail Lamp,LKE Nail Dryer 40W Gel Nail Polish LED UV Light with 3 Timers Professional Nail Art Tools Accessories White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G31SQZ7/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_fXV4DbCXP2RJY

My first 5 sets of acrylic fills looked awful. There's definitely a learning curve but a bit of practice has saved me hundreds in salon visits.

I use this 24W MelodySusie lamp and have had really good results with it so far.

I used this UV Lamp from Amazon.

I also made a post when the Mountain was first pulled out a week ago. It took one month for that much progress to be made.

Thank you! It’s LED I believe. Here’s the link to what I bought

Gel UV LED Nail Lamp,LKE Nail... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G31SQZ7?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006IBM21K?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_image

If you haven’t already ordered one, this is the one I use. It’s cheap and has a lot of high end features for a cheap price.

SUNUV 48W UV LED Nail Dryer for Gels Polish With Sensor (White)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071CTZJ6L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_.VpxCbR53PD2B

MelodySusie 36W UV Nail Lamp Dryer, Professional UV Gel Nail Polish Curing Light with 3 Timer Setting, Sliding Tray for Manicure Pedicure Gel Polish, UV Resin, Acrylic, Polygel, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012MEZP2E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_d.NpDbTKRB76S

This looks exactly like mine, but mine is old and beat up.

As for removing the print, I lay the build plate on a paper towel or paper plate and scrape it a few times with that plastic scraper they give you in the box. Then I pick it up with a small pair of tongs and drop it in the IPA and swish it around with the tongs. I should probably remove the supports before I do this but I don't. I pull it out and pop them off then cure it.

The cheap containers I got don't seal well enough to keep the IPA in or I'd just shake it up. I'll get something sealable when I get tired of what I'm doing.

If the sanitizing wipe contains any alcohol DO NOT RUB IT ON YOUR PHONE.

Almost every phone touch screen has an oleophobic coating on it to make your fingers slide nice and smooth. The alcohol will completely destroy this coating if you keep using it.

What you want to do is use a UV Lamp to kill any bacteria on the phone screen. Usually oleophobic coatings last about 2 years before they wear away from regular use. I replaced mine on my phone using this coating mix.