Reddit mentions: The best nail polish removers

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!!

Sorry for the long answer, but I really love this! So I’m pretty uptight about my nails and I can’t handle any chips. Once it chips I have to redo them. I swore by seche vite as a top coat for years... but then I tried dipping powder at a salon and I was sold! I figured I can do my nails as well as the salon so I can figure it out. I’m still learning (I’ve been doing this for maybe 2-3 months) but I’ve made great progress! I say that because there’s a learning curve. I do think they look salon quality right now.

I purchased this kit from amazon $39 Kiara Sky Dipping Powder Essentials Kit Steps 1-6, 0.5oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0785N6LYD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rmsWCbFP80J18

Honestly: I wish I purchased the French tips kit ($109) instead bc I wish I had more dipping powders to choose from. I’ll probably buy that when mine runs out.

I picked a few colors of the powder I liked. I will say the store brand at Ulta (red carpet) is absolute trash and do not use it. The powder and the kit from ulta are not good quality. Kiara sky is significantly better. This is the tough part bc it’s kind of a guessing game, but it’s also fun trying new colors.

Gospire 10 Pcs Plastic Nail Clip Nail Art Gel Polish Remover Soak Off Cleaner Cap Clip (pink) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KHSTE7O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_aqsWCb562XM3R I purchased these because removing the dip sucks. I take acetone on cotton balls and soak them for about 45 min-1 hour.

I purchased a drill and use on the lowest setting to clean up the edges. From where the clear coat settles around my nail bed. I can put the drill on my raw skin and it doesn’t hurt, but I was super nervous to try I at first. MelodySusie Compact Portable Electric Nail Drill - Light Electrical Professional Nail File Kit For Acrylic, Gel Nails, Manicure Pedicure Polishing Shape Tools Design For Home Salon Use https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H05EDK0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_assWCbHZ4KRSX

Those are the tools I bought. It takes ~1 hour to do the dip and it lasts 2-3 weeks. My toes last longer. It doesn’t chip, dries right away, and your real nails will grow out and not break off bc it’s so strong!! My nails look fake, but they are real.

I watched a few tutorials on YouTube and it’s really easy! It does take a bit longer but it’s totally worth it IMO. Feel free to PM if you want advice on how to actually apply it.

I think the best way to think about your theme is, just the things that make us feel pampered, loved, and beautiful. What gifts can you buy that could put self-love back into someone's life? Maybe it's just giving someone a few things to alleviate stress, like some nice bath products or a subtle candle scent. Or maybe you could just look for items that accentuate femininity and grace, like a embroidered handkerchief! Here is a list of things that will give the ladies in your life some help giving back to themselves:

1. Soap miniatures
   
2. Face masks
   
3. Elf brushes:
   e.l.f. Cosmetics 12 Piece Brush Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001HKR6WM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_GqlDwb1AXC858
   
4. Coconut oil samples: Found some at World Market in those wood bins in the food section
   
5. Miniature shampoo/conditioner: found in the travel sections at most any store like Target or Walmart
   
6. Facial exfoliating brush (non-electric) or sponge:
   Konjac Sponge (3 Pack) Activated Bamboo Charcoal. Facial Cleansing & Exfoliating Beauty Sponges https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WFSBHO8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_thlDwbXZ3YMEQ
   
7. razors and a nice shaving cream
   
8. loofa and body wash
   
9. Stud earrings: Authentic Freshwater Cultured Pearl Set of Five White,Grey,Peach,Pink,Peacock Pearl Earrings with Stainless Steel Backs (6-6.5mm) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OZVCRBA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_6xlDwbMKZ8A0K
   
10. Small makeup bags: you can also get these for like 1-3 bucks at the discount bins in Target and Michael's or at paper/pen stores. Set of 4 - ZICOME New Cute Candy Colored Travel Theme Memories Pastorable Style Pencil Case Coin Makeup Bag Purse Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0181YIDXC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_sDlDwb6JHV8YT
    
11. Chocolates (because they make us feel good)
    12 discount panties (like 6 for 20.00 or less at target
    
12. Pumice stones, foot file, pedicure set
    
13. Bath bombs, bath salts, bath pearls
    
14. Aloe Vera socks
    
15. Burt's Bees miniature set:
    Burt's Bees Fabulous Mini's Travel Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V0XQAU0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_yXlDwbYEBEK56
    
16. A pack of tea (so good for you) and tea cup!
    
17. Summer's Eve Cleanser or cleansing wipes: Hail to the V y'all, cause this stuff is AMAZING!!!
    
18. Oil blotting paper or face cleansing wipes
    
19. Nail polish remover pads:
    6 LA Colors Nail Polish Remover Pads Aceton Free Fruit Scent 6 Different Ones (Total 199 pADSs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007TXJKES/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_WdmDwbNM22R2N
    

I'm a really big fan of Mia Secrets products if we want an inexpensive expensive medium setting traditional system. I have their acrylics, gels, preps, and primers and I honestly haven't had a dud from them yet. They have this little intro kit if you want super small sizes of the bare essentials to try before committing, but I'll also show you everything I use to do a set of new nails with their system. If you go with the kit, the brush isn't the greatest...but it's better than most other kits in this price range.

• I dehydrate the nail using Mia Secrets Nail Prep.
  
• I apply my nail tip of choice and make sure it's straight.
  
• I brush Mia Secrets No Lines over the smile line of the tip and allow it to dry.
  
• I prime the nail using Mia Secrets [XTrabond]
  (https://www.amazon.com/Mia-Secret-Burn-Primer-Acrylic/dp/B00JVZGO3W/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1466043934&sr=1-5&keywords=Mia+Secret).
  
• I fill my dappen dish with Mia Secrets Liquid Monomer, ensuring there is enough liquid in the dish to submerge my brush from tip to ferrule.
  
• I drain my brush as needed to make the correct size bead then dip it into Mia Secrets Clear Acrylic Powder 3 times.
  
• I shape and buff the nail.
  
• I apply Mia Secrets Icegel top coat if my client does not want polish, alternatively I either polish the nails as normal, or use Mia Secrets UV Finish Gel if the client has paid extra for a UV top coat. (Sorry about the non Amazon link! It's not available on Amazon currently.)
  
  I PROMISE I AM NOT ENDORSED OR AFFILIATED WITH MIA SECRETS OR NAILITE WHATSOEVER. I just happen to use and love a lot of their products.
  
  
  I can also suggest Nailite's OMEGA system if you're a problem lifter. It's comparable to using CND's Retention+ liquid in my opinion.
  They sell a small kit and a large kit. I bought the large and it's an amazing value with a high quality brush to boot! I follow a similar system with it to Mia Secrets, but I'll outline the steps again.
  
  
• I dehydrate the nail with Nailite's Nail Prep.
  
• I apply my nail tip of choice and make sure it's straight.
  
• I blend the nail tip into the natural nail ensuring there are no ridges.
  
• I prime the nail with Nailite's Something Wonderful Protein Bonder.
  
• I fill my dappen dish with Nailite's Omega Liquid Monomer, ensuring there is enough liquid in the dish to submerge my brush from tip to ferrule.
  
• I drain my brush as needed to make the correct size bead then dip it into Nailite's Omega Powder 1 time and hold it there for 3 seconds.
  
• I shape and buff the nail.
  
• I apply Nailite's Wet Look Top Coat if my client does not want polish, alternatively I either polish the nails as normal or use Nailite's High Gloss Tackless Sealer if the client has paid extra for a UV top coat.
  
  If you have any questions at all about any products you may come across, tips on technique, or would like more product suggestions, etc.... I encourage you to PM me at anytime. :)

Okay, if I'm breaking the rules, then just ignore this post. But personally what I would do is just totally pamper myself!!! Since you totally deserve it, if you so choose, here's a step by step process approved by yours truly :b

1. Pick a good book! Something along the lines of [this] (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Miss-Peregrines-Home-Peculiar-Children/dp/1594746060/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=93F7UCQCYL93&coliid=IKK84OLGCAATV) (which I was ogling at the store, so you'll have to tell me how it is whenever you read it!) or even [this] (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Brave-New-World-Aldous-Huxley/dp/0099518473/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=93F7UCQCYL93&coliid=I2IOJFEAO4AML3) which is personally one of my favorite books ever.
   
   Got a book? Perfect! You may proceed.
   
   
2. Draw yourself a bath with these [awesome bath bombs and soaps] (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Bomb-Cosmetics-Luxury-Ballotin-Assortment/dp/B000XFU4K8/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1DI8MIXIWXE36&coliid=IF8YM49L6KGD) and lather it up, soak it up, and relax yo'self while reading your book that you chose in step 1.
   
   
3. Probably should be labeled as step number two, but to help set the ambiance, don't forget about the [candles!] (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Lily-Flame-Scented-Candle-Tin/dp/B0018RJMEY/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1DI8MIXIWXE36&coliid=IVW7ZQAC9OO0J)
   
   
4. Last, but most certainly not least! Finish off your relaxing pampering sesh with [a beautiful mani] (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Valentines-Cosmic-Glitter-Lacquer-Perfect/dp/B006JNX61C/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=CPGFYU1TC89&coliid=ISOQI53E5PNXX), and don't forget to [clean up afterwards!] (http://www.amazon.co.uk/POLISH-VARNISH-REMOVER-CORRECTOR-CORRECTION/dp/B0061XTGIM/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=CPGFYU1TC89&coliid=I3LTVFYIJMHE5V)
   
   this message approved by TIG23
   
   I would greatly appreciate [skyfall] (http://www.amazon.com/Skyfall-Daniel-Craig/dp/B007REV4T8/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=KYZ3XNM7EVE1&coliid=I378YST7ZB35TV) to add to my James Bond collection/ Movie collection and enjoy for a romantic date night at home! woop-di-woop !!
   
   Thanks for doing this contest!
   
   EDIT: Formatting. And then again, for formatting.

Happy happy cake day! And thanks for this contest! I had a lot of fun doing this!

1. Candy can be a cake replacement sometimes if its this big :)
   
2. Don't have anything Simon Pegg related, sorry.
   
3. My favorite, poetry!
   
4. I already have some so they aren't on my wishlist :(
   
5. The most comfortable animal thing EVER
   
6. My favorite shade of purple
   
7. This is kinda like a game.....
   
8. ummm none on my wishlist already
   
9. Its surprisingly very helpful
   
10. Best. Things. Ever.
    
11. Helps organize my nail polish collection!
    
12. All day 'evry day
    
13. Closest thing I could find on my wishlist
    
14. Natural beauties
    
15. More like a blue-green but its still one of my favorites
    
16. My lips would love to wear these!
    
17. Found these on someone elses wishlist and bursted out laughing!
    
18. Nothing:/
    
19. I have always wanted one of these things
    20.It's cheap and it smells like heaven!

Polishes - Brands

• Essie
  
  
• OPI
  
  
• China Glaze
  
  
• Sally Hansen
  
  
• Sinful Colors (cheap, but good for colors she'll use a lot, like black and white)
  
  Polishes - Colors
  
  
• White
  
  
• Black
  
  
• Pink (get more than one)
  
  
• Nude/Cream
  
  
• Her favorite color
  
  Tools
  
  Don't worry too much about getting "the best tools" if she's just starting. As she starts painting, she'll realize what tools she likes and which tools she doesn't. Ebay/Etsy/Amazon $5 tools are fine to start out with.
  
  
• Dotting tools
  
  
• Brushes
  
  
• Sponges
  
  
• Stamping kit (if you're feeling fancy or advanced.)
  
  Misc
  
  
• Mani/Pedi Kit (its possible she may have these tools, in which case skip this one.)
  
  
• Nail File
  
  
• Orange sticks (again, she may have these. Skip it if she does. Also she probably won't ever need 100, just wanted you to see what they were.)
  
  
• Acetone or Nail Polish Remover (100% Acetone is much more concentrated than most polish remover, but it can be very drying on your skin. I use it for clean up, but if she's just starting out, nail polish remover should be fine.)
  
  
• Cotton balls
  
  
• Something to carry all this stuff in (I have a pink tool box, but a make-up box will work too)
  
  I've given you a lot of stuff to check out, but don't run out and buy everything at once. I would pick 3 or 4 things from this list and go from there. For a very basic "start kit" I'd go for two colors of polish, dotting tools or brushes, a mani/pedi kit, and something to carry it all in. You can always get her more, or she can add to her collection herself.
  
  Best of luck!
  

Oh! I've been drooling over that color forever. Good choice! ;) Are you a big red fan?

If you have patience, Amazon is seriously a steal for building an arsenal! And if the answer to the patience question is yes... may I suggest...

• Guides for basic designs!
  
  
• If you want to organize your collection! These are super helpful when it starts growing and you want to be able to catalogue and match colors for manis. :)
  
  
  
• Striping tape, for all the lines!
  
  
  
• In case you want to up your cuticle care game :) or maybe this set instead?!
  
  
  
• Dotting tools are you best friend! And if you're into cleaning up your nails, this is a fantastic bundle!
  
  
  
• Gotta keep the nails healthy! and a different option if you'd like
  
  
  
  
• Makes removal so much faster!
  
  
  
  
• A trusty quick dry top coat
  
  
  
• Pair your top with a trust bottom coat!
  
  
  
• Maybe you want to try your hand at nail art?
  
  
  
  That's what I've got for now... Hmm.. What did I miss?

I think you need this in your life. Seriously. Slow cookers are amazing. I'm pretty sure this is the same one I bought for my sister's Christmas present last year and she loves it. There's nothing like going out to work in the morning with your slow cooker on and coming back to a ready made meal... and the smell that greets you when you come through the door is amazing. Try beef casserole. Omnomnom.

And seeing as that is the bottom half of the budget, throw yourself in these as well because they look awesome and I've just added them to my own wishlist :'D

For mee~ This little guy ♥ I've wanted him since I bought one for my nephew's birthday and was gutted when I had to give it away :( TY teddies are adorable. So yeah!

Thank you for the contest Roisiny~ woop-di-woop!

My needs list: This schmansy thing for my knee which has been killing me since I started waitressing. I think it would help. I'm not really sure honestly haha.

My nail polish list: It's an unhealthy obsession. BUT LOOK AT HOW PRETTY IT IS!!!!!

Add-ons: Need I explain ?

Food stuff- These are wacko expensive but they look so YUMMY

For Albus- because I love my kitteh and these look so awesome

Movies- Because Wall-E is the cutest thing ever and well everyone needs it in their life.

Music and Books- because I love BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAKIIIIIIINNNNGGG

Wants- I've never really had any sort of fancy camera. My last camera I had for 6 years before it broke. So I have this on my wl currently :)

last but not least my silly NSFW list has this awesome thing and I mean WHO DOESN'T WANT THAT IN THEIR LIFE????

This was fun, thanks!

1. I have many that I love. But I think my favorite has to be The Lion King. It's such a beautiful movie, it's deeply emotional, the music is gorgeous, lots of funny characters (cmon, Timon and Pumba? The best.) and the animations is really incredible. I had a nala costume when I was in Kindergarten that I used to run around in all the time, I wanted to be a lion after I saw that movie.
   
   
2. There is no Frozen on your wishlist! Perhaps you already own it?
   
   
3. See ya real soon!
   
   
4. Item
   
   Thanks for the contest.
   
   I live in CA so my favorite memory in Disneyland would have to be the first time I rode Peter Pan's Magic Flight. I was 6 years old and I thought that I was actually flying through the stars, it felt like the most amazing thing ever at the time.

1. done
   
   
2. Tip: Get involved in everything!!! The more you venture out and post.. the more awesome, amazing, wonderful friends you will make!
   
   
3. I like to chat it out with friends... if they're not available. I read my worries away. :)
   
   
4. This always makes me happy/laugh
   
   
5. The city I live in has the largest cereal plant in the world... (wooohoooo, I know :P)
   
   
6. This would be wonderful
   
   
7. Ella is getting a big girl crib!
   
   I would love to be your friend!! :D

If she doesn't have a cotton claw she'd probably love it. You can use acetone/polish remover on your nails, or to clean up your mat, or clean off your stamping plate, etc, without ruining the polish on your scrubbing hand.

https://www.amazon.com/ASP-Manicure-Saver-Cotton-Claw/dp/B00BGEIGK0/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468834454&sr=8-1&keywords=cotton+claw (this same ASP claw is a lot cheaper at Sally's Beauty Supply in the US for anyone who lives near a Sally's or can order off their website)

She might also like a silicone mat to work on, they're fairly new and popular. If you're not clear on why anyone would want one or how they are useful look up nail mat reviews on YouTube. Here are three mats made especially for nails:

https://www.amazon.com/Silicone-Decal-Maker-Manicure-Workspace/dp/B018JYTRJS/ref=sr_1_9_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468834595&sr=8-9&keywords=silicone+nail+mat

https://www.amazon.com/Uber-Mat-Nail-UberChic-Beauty/dp/B0176NYLF8/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468834595&sr=8-4&keywords=silicone+nail+mat

https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Kiss-Simply-Neat-Miracle/dp/B0195KR508/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468834595&sr=8-1&keywords=silicone+nail+mat

Essie Gel Couture isn't a super high end polish but it's a very new line from Essie and might not be in Sweden yet. (I'm in the US and haven't seen it at my local stores but I haven't looked everywhere.) You can order it online. There's a massive review showing all 42 shades here:
http://imabeautygeek.com/2016/05/01/essie-gel-couture-2016-swatches-and-review-all-the-shades/

I'm sure others will have more great suggestions so I'll stop here. :)

I havent been gifted anything but I'll give you 3 items that I've bought and are great for under $5!!

• Essence Gel Liner ($4 at ulta) This eyeliner has been my HG ever since I bought it!! I'm experimenting with other liner now but I'll 100% repurchase this if I dont find anything better! It doesnt smudge and it stays ALL DAY.
  
  
• E.L.F HD Blush ($3 on the E.L.F site) I have this in Headliner and its SUCH A GOOD BLUSH, a little goes a long way with this, and the color is beautiful imo. It also stays for a looong time!
  
  
• Missha Under-Eye Brightener ($4.50 @ Beautynetkorea) I loove this thing, it ALMOST conceals my forever-noticeable-because-I-never-sleep dark eye circles; which is good enough for me because every other concealer I've used for my dark circles felt too heavy and uncomfortable (with the exception of nyx concealer that I lost. cries )
  
  EDIT: OOPS, gotta be on amazon right? If so then:
  
  
• http://www.amazon.com/SODIAL-Organizer-Storage-Holder-Cosmetic/dp/B00L31JUYW/ref=sr_sp-btf_title_1_13?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1408432420&sr=1-13&keywords=cotton+pad+holder
  (I've been eyeing this thing at my local Daiso)
  
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Empty-Dispenser-Polish-Remover-Bottle/dp/B00871KNHO/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=undefined&sr=1-3&keywords=nail+polish+remover+pump+dispenser (I actually use this for my makeup remover, its hella useful)
  
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Large-Velcro-Fringe-Stabilizer-Bang--Random/dp/B009DYNM1S/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1408432838&sr=1-1&keywords=hair+velcro (I actually want to try these because they are SO CUTE and they dont seem like they would give my hair a mini-perm like the headband I'm using)

I use Hands Down Ultra pads when doing my stamping. And generally for anything I'm doing with remover. Cotton balls and q-tips drive me NUTS when I find little bits of lint too late, like stuck to the topcoat of an otherwise perfect nail.

I usually put a piece of parchment paper down before doing nail art (it's a fun place to test out color combos and protects my table.) For stamping, I then I put down a paper towel folded once. I start with the stamping plate closest to me. As I stamp, the part of the towel nearest me gets saturated with polish, so I move it back a bit to a clean area. I have a cosmetic pad saturated with acetone sitting upright next to the plate (the plastic backing on the pad means the acetone stays there). The steps, starting from right after stamping the previous nail:

1. Dab stamper on pad. It's almost lint-free when new, like durable felt.
   

• Gently wipe scraper on paper towel from previous scrapings, then once on the pad to clean the scraper completely.
  
• Use pad to clean off plate.
  
• Dab polish onto plate
  
• Scrape the plate, drop the scraper, pick up the stamper, roll stamper over plate. THIS IS THE PART THAT MUST BE DONE QUICKLY. The thin layer of polish won't come off the plate if you dawdle. Before you scrape, and after you have the polish on the stamper, you've got some time to work with.
  
• Line up your pattern, roll it firmly over your nail.
  
• Repeat steps 1-7.
  
  Good luck and keep practicing!

Okay, bias incoming.... I love full-nail images. I have a lot of the Cheeky plates from Amazon. A, B, D and Happy Nails 10, this is also good for a mix of small and full images. You can't beat the price for the great quality on Cheeky plates. This one by Winstonia is a recent fav as well.

I have a few favorites! My very very favorite is actually from a show though! I always try to keep it in mind when people get under my skin :)

"You're not going to make the world any better by shouting at it." - Wilfred Mott, Doctor Who 2005 (Season 4 Episode 11)

These are only $2.50! :) Thanks for the contest!!

Oh my, congratulations on the sale! I've been meaning to put up some of my wares on Etsy, but I haven't had the time :( Mayhaps, when I finally get off my bum and do it, we can add each into our circles! :D

Clearly this item is ridiculously overpriced, but if I could afford it, I'd buy it in a heartbeat. It's a molecular mixology kit which combines science and food! What better combination is that?!

For something a bit more within a tighter budget, sharkbanana. This one is pretty self explanatory. :)

Thank you for hosting this contest! Oh, before I forget:

<$5 and <$10

I really really want it! <3

Happy anniversary!

My current favorite is Wreck it Ralph because I made a bunch of friends due to that movie.
Suggestion? Deep River Snacks chips. The best potato chips I have ever tasted, and they are free of gluten and nuts and a bunch of other stuff.
Link to my item
My favorite Disney World memory was going to each Epcot country and trying one food. By the end I could barely walk.

See ya real soon!

cheesecake all day every day! cheesecake is definitely one of my top desserts but I think my favorite is a strawberry napoleon. Whip cream + soft cake + strawberry = heaven! Thanks for the contest, this + this = under $15! :D

lol clearly too much....it takes like 5 normal sized round pads to take my makeup off....:o I try not to soak it too much and I use the front and back but.....dude idk. I bought a little bottle like this and I'm hoping it will help cut down on the use? Any tips?? I think I'm just an over user. I go through foundation like a fiend too

It’s super easy! I bought clips like these to replace the foil. I soak a cotton ball or cotton pad in acetone, buff the surface of my gel with a coarse nail file, and clip the acetone soaked cotton to my nail with the clip for about 7-10 mins. Then it’s easy to scrape off :)

These are $2.72 with free shipping and they're really helpful!

Thanks! :)

1. I do this with my boyfriend
   
   
2. Ich Will music video, one of my favorite songs by Rammstein, and I love the video as well. It isn't my favorite of theirs video-wise, but it's SFW.
   
   
3. I enjoy browsing /r/germusic but I don't post there. I did once was all. I post in /r/AskReddit sometimes.
   
   
4. I would like this nail correcting pen and it's on my 'beauty' list.
   
   
5. This is the tale of Captain Jack Sparrow. Pirate so brave on the seven seas

I use this. And since i don't want to just get it every where i keep it in this so i have some control. This is especially crucial when doing, say a galaxy s6 or s7, where the screen is directly behind the battery. This is also useful for when those stupid commando strips break in iPhones (the white glue under the battery). And then to actually get whatever i am trying to get out i use playing cards to do the glue cutting and removing of the battery (or what ever) Have to be careful with acetone tho because it will eat through a lot of softer plastics. If your worried about that, you can use 90% alcohol. I don't mix them, i just use what ever is needed for the job at hand.

Acetone is also really good for cleaning glue off iPad and many other things when replacing broken screens/digitizers. But for that i use cheep micro fiber cloths you can get at walmart or online. My tech bought a bag of like 30 of them at costco for like 15$. Something like this

Hope this helps.

I need doll-modding supplies!

Like clay or tools or acetone pens or embellishments or brushes.

With practice, I hope to be able to work with some very talented doll artists in my community, as well as crafting custom dolls for people over the Internet.

> Also for the love of god don't try to use paint thinner to get polish off, I don't know why I've seen people try this but it doesn't work and that crap is toxic as fuck.

Uh. You realize acetone, the most common nail polish remover, is literally just paint thinner?

With that said, I highly recommend this stuff instead, because acetone does suck and dries you out like woah. This stuff is amazing, and much nicer on your skin. Smells better too.

Try a White Russian! Delicious!

Congrats on your 21st! You can now go have ALL the fun, no restrictions! ;)

link

Bottoms up!

Good morning! I know we've had some discussions about home gel nail kits, and someone asked me about my nail stuff on my review thread. I figured I'd share my reply here, too.

Here's the UV light kit with four polishes: AZUREBEAUTY Gel Nail Polish... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G3Q3W72?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I also bought some additional nail polishes: AZUREBEAUTY Gel Nail Polish Set -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071V7XGHD?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

...and rhinestones. 4000 PCS Rhinestones & Pearls for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MTKLV29?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Can't forget the glue! Nail Art 8ml Rhinestone UV Glue... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L75RNDJ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

...plus gel remover devices. eBoot Nail Cap Clips UV Gel... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y5ZSG1H?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I also do a gel overlay under the polish to strengthen, grow, and protect my nails. For that, you'll need a nail brush kit, IBD Builder Gel (NOT hard gel!) and Bonder Gel. I bought all of that at Sally's. There's a YT channel called the Nail Hub that breaks everything down in easy-to-understand steps.

Here are two sets of nails I've done.

I've been using this oil based polish remover and it works great. Smells great, no horrible smell and it's gentle on my nails and moisturizing. :)

I was recommended this product from Amazon when I listed the EXO wipes in my Holy Grail list. Haven't run out of my current remover yet so I can't vouch for it personally, but the reviews are excellent so it might be worth a shot:

https://www.amazon.com/Organic-Lavender-Nail-Polish-Remover/dp/B00G7S424O/ref=zg_bs_11059371_8

1. THANK YOU! It's Julep Joan for the red and Julep... Unknown for the blue. XD
   
2. And linky <3

Acetone Dispenser oh gosh, this is so darn useful!! I would love it.

thanks for gifting!

I would love these nail polish corrector pens. Thanks for the contest!

I swear by two things:

this for clean up: (total life saver) http://www.amazon.com/Opi-Correct-Clean-Refillable-Corrector/dp/B00265YNFK

and this for the best looking cuticles I've ever had! It took not even a week of using it and they were completely healthy looking:

http://www.burtsbees.com/Lemon-Butter-Cuticle-Cream/07099-00,default,pd.html

I use my oral-b toothbrush and pour acetone in a non-abs plastic cup with about enough to hit 1/4 of the nail. Damn this works SO good. Use acetone not nail polish remover. That crap don't remove squat!
16oz may last about 50-100 uses if you don't use more than you need.

Super Nail Pure Acetone, 16 fl. oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009SDJQCI

While looking for link, I found it $3.16 oz so I just bought 2 more..wow what a good price

I've been using paper towels and this bottle of acetone. I've noticed that newer sets seem to de-foil better than older ones. I spent 10 minutes scrubbing a foil Mirrodin Leonin Scimitar and there was no change at all but an M10 common was really easy; also the one DFC Werewolf I did de-inked to white paper rather than foil so DFCs probably have a different process that makes them unsuitable.

Just finished changing everything! Momma didn't raise no fool.

Pens (on my nursing school WL, available for $5/free shipping under more buying choices)

Thank you!!

I can manage to get all of my fingers in these Except for my thumbs lol I have to ask for help.

I'm so curious how you got those lines on them, they are perfect! As for taking off the gel polish, these were a total game changer for me and has allowed me to use gel all the time now. I take a bit of cotton ball and soak it in nail polish remover then put these on. I'm on mobile so i hope this link works. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KHSTE7O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_7vx-Bb13R33NM

1.96

I'm Ron Burgundy?

Thanks for the contest!

Yes, this is from Cheeky Jumbo Plate A. It's a great stamping plate. I used Sally Hansen White On as the stamping color, I have an old thick bottle that comes out really white, but this was with my new bottle which is a bit more thin.

I’ve had great experiences with the gel polishes from drug stores that do not require a UV light. No issues at all and I only have to do my nails every other week. Removing it was kind of a pain though so I got these and let them soak for a few mins and it slides right off! I use Essie but I hear good things about the Salley Hansen one too.

Thank you for the contest!

hiday hi .uk person!

I have some nail polish remover pens in my makeup list :) (also the sherbet straws that /u/wooogly mentioned cause I looove sherbet but don't particularly needs it XD)

also xe.com for all your currency conversion needs!

Something to try on the marker: Nail polish remover pads. If you find them in a store, they're like $1 each.

I would crash a child beauty pageant

These nail polish remover pens!

Diet Pepsi

I don't know if you can avoid a mess with this one. I hate cleaning up as I think it's the hardest part. I just ordered some cheap nailpolish remover pens but they aren't here yet.

The only thing that worked for me was making sure I put a decent amount of polish on the nail before putting the plastic on. If you have to add more polish and press on the polish again the polish will get thick, and the colors will blend too much.

The colors you choose is kind of important. I think light colors will look the best, but no one wants boring nails when you put in all this effort. I went with one bright, one dark, and one neutral. Then I went back with my neutral color to touch up the mistakes.

is this a sufficient acetone selection for US based?

​

https://www.amazon.com/Super-Nail-Pure-Acetone-fl/dp/B009SDJQCI/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1536477280&sr=8-5&keywords=Anhydrous+Acetone

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cotton ball gripper for doing your nails

I used this stamper: http://www.amazon.com/Nail-Art-Double-Stamper-Scraper/dp/B002MZ8BK2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346559283&sr=8-1&keywords=konad+stamper

And a design off this plate: http://www.amazon.com/INTRODUCTION-Collection-Plates-Designs-Cheeky/dp/B006OMHU4C/ref=sr_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1346559363&sr=1-3&keywords=cheeky+plate

This would do it.
https://www.amazon.com/Super-Nail-Pure-Acetone-fl/dp/B009SDJQCI

I'm working on doing more with my nails and I'm wanting to give stamping a try. So this is something I really need to be able to do that. And this would be for when I end up making a mess of myself. I want to try something new.

I wouldn't recommend removing polish with alcohol or nail polish thinner.

Do you use opi nail envy by any chance? Some people say that makes their nails peel. Is it possible that the remover is revealing your problem instead of causing it? If it is the remover, maybe switching to something like this would help?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00G7S424O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1483119262&sr=8-1&keywords=natural+nail+polish+remover

Slothypoo and kittykins

Edit: More sloths because I got sucked up into the sloth tornado

Linky

You can buy those types of pens on eBay/Amazon, just slightly larger. I got 5 in a pack for about £1.50 (so about $2, right?). They came with a nib already in place (end piece you use to remove the messes), and the other end of the pen had a little holder for 4 more nibs per pen. So in total 5 pens with 25 nibs.

You can also refill those with polish remover too. When you switch out the nibs just pour some remover inside the pen and it soaks through. Because you get so many I just saved different nibs for different colours really, so no real issue of cross contamination.

I'll link, but I'm on my tablet so if it doesn't work sorry. I'm awful with anything more than straightforward posting.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/POLISH-VARNISH-REMOVER-CORRECTOR-CORRECTION/dp/B0061XTGIM/ref=pd_sim_sbs_beauty_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=1MV17TXSZJ2H1P0B7YX0

I use an ear swap, but I still kind of suck at it so I bought these. Just received them this week so I'll be seeing how well they work on Saturday.