View Full Version : Nails/manicures how you do yours?
NitaBaby
07-21-2019, 02:03 PM
Almond shaped acrylics. I always choose the softest pink they have to create a natural/almost clear look. My sister laughed so hard the last time I got french tips that I haven't gotten those shits ever since lol.
carmen_b
07-21-2019, 03:58 PM
I think I want DARK this time. Purple or black. Shellac mani is an expensive thing to upkeep ( at the salon near me anyway, I could go to the beauty school for less but " meh " ). My nails looked perfect for 19-20 days though. They are just barely looking off on the bottoms now from growing out.
Did the toes ! I'll go back tomorrow for mani - BLACK . It's very different. I'm usually pinks / reds / sparkles.
chanzep
07-21-2019, 08:35 PM
I just got a nice orange gels on hands and coral pink on toes.
PhatGirlDynomite!!!
07-21-2019, 09:12 PM
I'm glad I saw this thread! Ive been getting back into doing my nails again but the brands I'm using are causing me to break out in rashes. I found out a few years ago my skin issues were due to nail polish. Sad day. :( Now I'm looking into brands with less chemicals.
I love nail design. Right now I'm obsessed with nude nails and pastel designs. In the past month I've bought almost the same color FOUR TIMES!! It's nuts! I have Defy&Inspire color "Ladies Who Lunch" and three similar shades. But they all make me itchy.
Has anyone tried these and are they worth the price?: Pacifica, Jin Soon, Cote, Zoya, RMS or Sundays. I need something hypoallergenic and my hot girl summer is on hold while I figure this out. :)
SnuffleUffleGrass
07-22-2019, 11:00 AM
I'm glad I saw this thread! Ive been getting back into doing my nails again but the brands I'm using are causing me to break out in rashes. I found out a few years ago my skin issues were due to nail polish. Sad day. :( Now I'm looking into brands with less chemicals.
I love nail design. Right now I'm obsessed with nude nails and pastel designs. In the past month I've bought almost the same color FOUR TIMES!! It's nuts! I have Defy&Inspire color "Ladies Who Lunch" and three similar shades. But they all make me itchy.
Has anyone tried these and are they worth the price?: Pacifica, Jin Soon, Cote, Zoya, RMS or Sundays. I need something hypoallergenic and my hot girl summer is on hold while I figure this out. :)
Have you tried Sinful Colors Professional nail polish? They aren't too chemical-laden & look nice. The glitter shades stick well too. There's also products you can use to do manicures without getting polish bleed on your skin (Mess No More Liquid tape)
Elektra Luxx
07-22-2019, 02:39 PM
I just got a nice orange gels on hands and coral pink on toes.
I love these colors!
PhatGirlDynomite!!!
07-22-2019, 02:51 PM
Have you tried Sinful Colors Professional nail polish? They aren't too chemical-laden & look nice. The glitter shades stick well too. There's also products you can use to do manicures without getting polish bleed on your skin (Mess No More Liquid tape)
I don't know if I've tried Sinful Colors yet? The problem I have isn't just from the color getting on my nail bed. Whenever I use nail polish I break out when I scratch myself. My neck and face are the worst.
chanzep
07-22-2019, 06:15 PM
I have not tried Zoya but want to. I have a bunch of their colours saved on Pinterest.
SnuffleUffleGrass
07-23-2019, 05:23 AM
I don't know if I've tried Sinful Colors yet? The problem I have isn't just from the color getting on my nail bed. Whenever I use nail polish I break out when I scratch myself. My neck and face are the worst.
Ugh...if your allergies are that bad I'd recommend silk wraps or a little bit of acrylic over the nailbeds.
There isn't a topcoat that would prevent that allergic reaction?
chanzep
09-09-2019, 11:22 AM
Im wearing Essie Sunshine state of mind. I went to TJ Maxx and they had a bunch of good OPI I got Russian Navy, Don't Bossa Nova me around, My very first Knockwurst, Berlin and done that and Cable car pool lane.
chanzep
11-01-2019, 07:48 PM
Now I have OPI Im not really a waitress. A dark red.
Cutie101
12-03-2019, 09:55 PM
Theese are life saving stuff!!!! And money saving ;D;D
For fingers
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32952156822.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.27424c4dXfE 71k
52412
For toes
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32963059971.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.27424c4dXfE 71k
No more going crazy with foil and other stuff!! I just love them! The only thing I regret, is that I didn't look that the toes clips are only 5, not 10, in the package. Thankfully, I don't do gel on toes, just regular polish. So, I only keep them 5 minutes on each foot.
And I love the gel polishes as well. Cheap af!! Those from modelones are my favourite.
https://modelones.aliexpress.com/store/1846220?spm=a2g0o.detail.1000002.4.8e9c7a3eaooYOc
I am obsessed with aliexpress lately. That's where I am getting a shit ton of things, including my lashes https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32814230186.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.27424c4dXfE 71k
52413
Oh and I am looking forward to get this nail remover, for gel polish https://www.aliexpress.com/item/33052457466.html?spm=a2g0o.cart.0.0.47143c00arhhil&mp=1
The only bad thing with aliexpress is the shipping time, sometimes it takes 1-2 months. But it's good if you're not in a rush...
chanzep
12-05-2019, 04:20 PM
Are you doing your own gels?
I want to, I was looking at the uv nail dryer on there .
chanzep
12-05-2019, 04:21 PM
I am wearing OPI Kerry blossom I love it for winter.
Cutie101
12-05-2019, 05:59 PM
Are you doing your own gels?
I want to, I was looking at the uv nail dryer on there .
Yes, I am. I looove gel polish because it lasts longer. I don't use acrylic nails tho... just gel top coat, polish and base coat on my natural nails.
I have this one (the 9C plus version) and I am pleased with it https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32753589534.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.27424c4dihs Pd6
Angel_Kitteneque
12-05-2019, 06:48 PM
I bought a press-on nail kit for $8 at the beauty supply store for coffin-shape. I will file it to how I want it to be (ballerina) and I bought gel polish to put on it. All my nail polish is LA Colors now and it all comes from the dollar store, and it's great! Takes a bit of time but I got sick of the nail damage and brittleness, and this is nicer. I've heard some girls use super glue but I'm scared so I use the regular glue and they last 1-1.5 weeks. Can pop it back on if anything happens
Cutie101
12-05-2019, 08:50 PM
I bought a press-on nail kit for $8 at the beauty supply store for coffin-shape. I will file it to how I want it to be (ballerina) and I bought gel polish to put on it. All my nail polish is LA Colors now and it all comes from the dollar store, and it's great! Takes a bit of time but I got sick of the nail damage and brittleness, and this is nicer. I've heard some girls use super glue but I'm scared so I use the regular glue and they last 1-1.5 weeks. Can pop it back on if anything happens
Omgggg don't tell me about it, I just found those https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32958620959.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.145b6d0 2INY3kA&algo_pvid=fad00c94-78a1-441c-982a-4d72776817df&algo_expid=fad00c94-78a1-441c-982a-4d72776817df-15&btsid=b9e5c38d-f5f6-4fc6-83fd-e0f5ff8966ce&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_5,searchwe b201603_55 and at this point I am like... why the heck do I have those nail polishes?!!?!?! look at those beauties!!! :))))) I am gonna buy some!
chanzep
07-28-2021, 08:50 PM
So Im wondering what everyone is doing for their nails now. Obviously last year salons were closed for months so Im wondering if girls were doing their own nails or just riding it out. I had naked nails for all of last year after covid but started doing gels again since Spring. I currently have a deep sea blue with glitter. I wear them quite short too. Since shops reopened I always go to TJ Maxx and pick up OPI colors.
What are you doing with your nails?
caramelcraze
08-12-2021, 07:56 PM
I've been doing polygel nails for almost a year and a half at this point and I'm proud of my progress! Started doing it over square or coffin tips and my nails are MUCH happier than when I used dual forms (which caused lifting). Seriously can't believe how much I previously spent on getting my nails done, especially considering how frequently they broke! Like there are definitely styles/shapes I still haven't mastered, but progress is being made and always end up with nails I'm in love with. My favorite gel polish company is DND Gel (https://dndgel.com/)! They have top quality gel and normal polish at great prices and I've never had an issue with curing or chipping. Recommend ordering directly from their site, as it's way cheaper than amazon.
DIY is just sooo much cheaper and, while it is a time commitment, you have more control over the final product. Plus if you do mess up or break a nail, you don't have to go back to the nail salon & pay even more to have it fixed. If anyone wants youtube resources for polygel specifically, I'm happy to share some channels that have helped me immensely.
neverendingkneebruises
08-13-2021, 03:13 PM
I switched to press ons for my fingernails. I buy either cute sets or solid colors off aliexpress as well as little gemstones & decals to add. The shipping takes a while but I stock up and now doing my nails is so cheap and painless, takes like 10 minutes, and doesn't ruin my natural nail. I bring nail glue & spares to work with me in case one of them pops off or gets lost.
For pedicures I still go to a nail salon, I get the gel because otherwise with my Pleasers they get ruined fast. It's also a self care thing for me, I would much rather pay someone to do it. However, when my toes start to get raggedy and I obviously need them redone, I wear boots (or cute ankle socks with my sandal Pleasers) so I can prolong time in between pedicures, so I really only get them done once (maybe twice) a month.
Genoveve
08-13-2021, 05:01 PM
I've been using this system for my nails since January 2020: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zvFisuXuoI Warning though, it is not idiot-proof. You do really kind of have to know what you're doing.
chanzep
08-14-2021, 03:21 PM
Ugh I wish I could do myself. Yesterday I went to the nail shop and there was a sign that it's closed for a week . Smh.
RedWine
08-17-2021, 11:44 AM
I'm still using Apres gel-x and gel polish.
This system
https://apresnail.com/collections/nail-extension-system
caramelcraze
08-18-2021, 03:38 PM
I'm still using Apres gel-x and gel polish.
This system
https://apresnail.com/collections/nail-extension-system
How do you like them?
I used different press ons for a while and ended up with nail fungus because they wouldn't completely seal. Is the sealant like a glue or a gel? I just want to try something that completely seals like a gel because that nail fungus was not fun (it was due to water getting under the press on nail).
I have a dip powder kit that I bought during OG quarantine that I keep telling myself I’m gonna use. Lol. I’m also in the business of a new UV LED lamp
caramelcraze
09-10-2021, 05:09 PM
I have a dip powder kit that I bought during OG quarantine that I keep telling myself I’m gonna use. Lol. I’m also in the business of a new UV LED lamp
This is the nail lamp (https://www.amazon.com/Presets-Shutoff-Portable-Fingernail-Toenail/dp/B08R94K4TX/ref=sr_1_16?crid=1YKYIXS2Z5LX6&dchild=1&keywords=led+uv+nail+lamp+120w&qid=1631317908&sprefix=led+uv+nail+lamp+120%2Caps%2C210&sr=8-16) I currently own. It's not big enough for 2 hands at the same time, which imo is the only downside (very compact). It's a beast so far as curing stuff though!
chanzep
09-10-2021, 05:46 PM
I have not done mine for ages they look bare.
Cutie101
09-10-2021, 06:27 PM
Still going strong with the gels. Every 2-3 weeks just cutting my nails (I like to keep them short, just a bit over the finger), apply the gel and not having to worry.
My top favorite gels are from Born Pretty. I don't like Modelones anymore, they chip fast. This is what i use now https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002361377434.html?spm=a2g0o.store_pc_groupList .8148356.38.3d03433aqIp7v8 they are dirt cheap, i literally ordered 10 bottles and still using it 1 year later :))) Maybe because i keep my nails short and don't consume much.
I use base coat and top coat from a local brand, it's more expensive but i feel my nails last longer thanks to that. It's higher quality and it worth because it's the first that goes in contact with the nail.
Cutie101
09-10-2021, 06:32 PM
How are you making out with that? I have gel polish and the lamp as well but it BURNS like crazy and often comes out lumpy
I can come with a new answer, now that i got some experience. Apparently, it's your gel polish. You might use something that is not a good quality. I have been trying some brands and some do really burn when you put it under the lamp. Yes, it should heat a little, but it shouldn't burn that bad, unless it's a low quality.
To avoid getting lumpy nails, try to use thin layers and spread it well. Being gel, it doesn't dry and you can take your time spreading the gel evenly on your nail, as patient as you can and as long as you like. Just try to not overload the brush, always have liiiitle gel on it and eventually add extra, than trying to remove the excess from the nail.
This is the I currently own. It's not big enough for 2 hands at the same time, which imo is the only downside (very compact). It's a beast so far as curing stuff though!
Have you ever tried dip powder nails...if so how were they?
Does anybody know what to ask for in the shop if you want poly gel? Do you just say poly gel or is it called something else professionally?
honeybirdette
09-14-2021, 11:39 AM
i think its that time of year again....... Essie Bordeaux time. just in time for fall :)
55922
chanzep
09-14-2021, 04:21 PM
That color is nice. I love the dark colors in Fall/ Winter.
caramelcraze
09-15-2021, 12:59 AM
Does anybody know what to ask for in the shop if you want poly gel? Do you just say poly gel or is it called something else professionally?
I get mine off amazon or Makartt's site. They make the best polygel by far.
Haven't tried dip nails. One of my friends has a few times and hers never holds up well. might just be the brand used though, idk.
Cutie101
05-15-2022, 11:54 AM
I do my nails with gel, but fuck me, I see those polygel compilations popping on my youtube and I am not tempted to buy a kit. I need to watch some tutorials for beginners and learn how to remove them with a drill.
Not sure if I wanna go for it, because even removing the gel and re applying, every 3 weeks is a pain in the ass for me. And I don't wanna go to salon because I can't stand the idea of sitting there for 2 hours, I rather do it at home, watching Netflix, like I do with the gels.
But meanwhile, I watch those compilations, they are a guilty pleasure lately:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gUAVWv8xoY
Edit: HOLY SHIIIIT!!! I need this mini UV lamp into my life!!! I usually stick 1 finger under the lamp, as I paint them, anyway. Sooo... I'll buy it asap!
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000420866377.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.91f14 eb9UOuF6Y&algo_pvid=24997259-5825-40cc-953e-3728dc1cef7b&algo_exp_id=24997259-5825-40cc-953e-3728dc1cef7b-15&pdp_ext_f=%7B"sku_id"%3A"12000018463897698"%7D&pdp_npi=2%40dis%21GBP%21%213.93%21%21%21%21%21%400 b0a555c16526411465148117e67f8%2112000018463897698% 21sea
Pinksugardoll
05-16-2022, 09:57 AM
I am a nail tech now so if you have questions lmk
caramelcraze
05-24-2022, 07:27 AM
I am a nail tech now so if you have questions lmk
what's the best dip powder available to non-professionals?
chanzep
05-24-2022, 09:26 PM
OPI show us your tips.
caramelcraze
05-25-2022, 08:22 AM
I switched from polygel to soft gel (or soak off acrylic) nail extensions a while ago and my nails are definitely healthier. I've found that they almost always last longer as well (vs polygel). I've only had 1 come off ever and 1 broke, but out of probably 8 sets, that's not bad at all. Only downside is that you can't really fill them like polygel or acrylic & have to soak them off, then put a new set on. on the bright side, soaking them off usually takes under 30 minutes & in under 60 minutes total (including prep, application, & painting them) you have a new set that should last 3 weeks or so. There's also a TON less filing involved, which is nice.
I use the following:
Mia Secret Dehydrator/Primer (https://www.amazon.com/Mia-Secret-Professional-Dehydrate-Temporary/dp/B079YKLFN2/ref=sr_1_2?crid=92KRZCU8OY89&keywords=mia+secret+primer&qid=1653486922&sprefix=mia+secret+pr%2Caps%2C3203&sr=8-2)
Apres extend soak off gel (https://www.amazon.com/Apres-Extend-Gel-X-Adhesive-0-5oz/dp/B07P17PTKJ/ref=sr_1_4_mod_primary_new?crid=1WL7LBP8K1LOJ&keywords=apres+extend+gel&qid=1653486499&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=apres%2Caps%2C381&sr=8-4)
So far as full cover nail tips, I've found that Makartt (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XRBNTYD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1&pldnSite=1) & Enailcouture (https://enailcouture.com/collections/1-2-3-go/products/123go-nails-pre-made-full-coverage-gel-nail-tips) both make really solid nails. I will say I have yet to try anything other than the clears from enail, so I'm not entirely sure how well the different color ones cure.
also, you'll want two lamps for this method. A small one (https://www.amazon.com/Beetles-Dryer-Curing-Gel-Polish/dp/B086GGHCCJ/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2L5OE4CWCUTCB&keywords=small+led+nail+lamp&qid=1653490816&sprefix=small%2520led%2520nail%2520lamp%2Caps%2C31 1&sr=8-5) to initially cure while you hold on the nail so no air bubbles pop in. then a larger lamp (https://www.amazon.com/SUNUV-Manicure-Machine-Infrared-Professional/dp/B078NTG1V5/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=nail+lamp+sunuv&qid=1653491030&sprefix=nail+lamp+sun%2Caps%2C318&sr=8-5) for end stage curing.
Top it all off with your favorite gel polish and you're in business!
stargrl
05-28-2022, 08:56 PM
I am a nail tech now so if you have questions lmk
In HS I had long nails that people always thought were fake. Fast forward some years later and now they get to a certain length and break. What should I do to prevent that
yaya_cash
06-02-2022, 06:46 PM
I don't like going to get my nails done, now. I would spend so much getting my nails done to get hired several times and didn't get hired. And I would spend so much on my nails and later disappointed in my results, from the cost, while working. Anyway, I will be entering an audition in a long while in New York hoping for the best outcome. I will just do my nails this time since I don't care to maintain it and the cost of. Lower effort, less burn out and more money in my pocket. I will treat entertaining as an in between gig or an extra stream of income, not my primarly, consistent source since lately it hasn't been too appreciative or good to me.
caramelcraze
06-02-2022, 09:52 PM
In HS I had long nails that people always thought were fake. Fast forward some years later and now they get to a certain length and break. What should I do to prevent that
Not a nail tech, but I struggled with flimsy nails for a while. The two things that helped noticeably were OPI nail envy strengthener & switching to a higher quality multivitamin.
Cutie101
06-04-2022, 01:18 PM
I don't like going to get my nails done, now. I would spend so much getting my nails done to get hired several times and didn't get hired. And I would spend so much on my nails and later disappointed in my results, from the cost, while working. Anyway, I will be entering an audition in a long while in New York hoping for the best outcome. I will just do my nails this time since I don't care to maintain it and the cost of. Lower effort, less burn out and more money in my pocket. I will treat entertaining as an in between gig or an extra stream of income, not my primarly, consistent source since lately it hasn't been too appreciative or good to me.
Try press on nails, idk what glue to reccomend to you, as I am not from US, but maybe anyone here or in this thread are some reccomendations. They are perfect for a quick efortless manicure.
yaya_cash
06-04-2022, 07:45 PM
Try press on nails, idk what glue to reccomend to you, as I am not from US, but maybe anyone here or in this thread are some reccomendations. They are perfect for a quick efortless manicure.
Thank you for your suggestion. I got hired, anyway. I might just invest in getting my nails done, and change my appearance some - it's a difference clientele than I got used to working with. I want to see if this club will work with some arrangements.
Cutie101
06-05-2022, 12:27 PM
Thank you for your suggestion. I got hired, anyway. I might just invest in getting my nails done, and change my appearance some - it's a difference clientele than I got used to working with. I want to see if this club will work with some arrangements.
Ohh, definitely investing in your image pays off. It's our no1 work tool so definitely any $$$ poured in it's an investment and not an expense, because it brings money back. Good luck at your new place, I hope it rains$$!!
caramelcraze
06-13-2022, 04:52 AM
For those of you who do gel polish nails at home, DND Daisy (https://dndgel.com/) is having a 20% off sale on everything. They are by far my favorite brand of gel polish! Their DC Platinum collection is amazing if you like shimmer that isn't chunky glitter.
Cashmere Star
06-13-2022, 07:13 AM
I buff and file my natural nails and then paint top coat over it, or I use press-on french nails. I keep my nails/press ons on the short end so they don't get in the way of daily living. I work out a lot and use my hands, so don't want to risk getting the nails broken off.
I use IBD 5 Second Brush On Nail Glue, which is strong as fuck.
caramelcraze
06-27-2022, 08:33 AM
My latest enail haul came in (showed up in under 10 days, which is fast for where I live). Got some French almond nails like these:
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1041/4084/products/image_f726c220-e0e6-490a-9134-cd66c31e1399_1024x1024.jpg?v=1614283309
Going to apply them tomorrow! I seriously love how durable soft gel nails are. Like it's so nice only worrying about doing your nails once every few weeks due to growth and not because they're chipping or breaking. Plus, it's so much cheaper than going to the salon & usually the outcome is (usually) better. For under $75, you can get set up pretty well with a gel polish set, lamps, soft gel glue, nail files, bond, and enough soft gel nails to last you 20+ sets. Can't imagine going back to acrylics or polygel at this point, especially with how much they beat up your natural nails.
Genoveve
06-28-2022, 03:33 PM
^^^I saw someone on tiktok talking about how they do their nails is to instead of using nail glue and fake nails, they use curing gel with (clear) fake nails and they stay on forever. The next time one of my nails breaks and I need a tip instead of gluing one on I will cure it with my nail gel and see how it holds up.
Cutie101
06-28-2022, 04:30 PM
^^^I saw someone on tiktok talking about how they do their nails is to instead of using nail glue and fake nails, they use curing gel with (clear) fake nails and they stay on forever. The next time one of my nails breaks and I need a tip instead of gluing one on I will cure it with my nail gel and see how it holds up.
I wonder how they take them off tho... I mean, I gotta soak the shit out of my nails to take the gel off, idk how to soak them underneath the fake nail... I'd love to do this.