As a beauty junkie, I’m constantly checking out new products. Once in a while, something comes along that gets me so excited that I can’t wait to share it. If you follow me on Snapchat (not a bad idea, if you want to keep up on the exciting new launch and events like the one I’m attending this weekend – follow me at deetommy), you might have seen that I was recently able to check out the new Essie Gel Couture nail polishes, which promise long lasting, gel-like results at home without the use of a UV or LED light. I’ve tried many of these at-home gel polishes, but I have to say this is one that truly lives up to its expectations – it really blew me away!
The 2 step system (2 coats of colour + the specially designed top coat) promise up to 14(!) days of wear, which is really incredible. I’ve seen the results on other people, and I’m personally on day 9 of my first application. The colour still looks amazing and I haven’t had any chips as of yet, which is a big deal for me. I’m the gal who’s polish likes to chip by the end of day 1. The shine has dulled a little (and by that, I mean very little) but that can be easily fixed by applying another layer of top coat. I have noticed a bit of wear along the tips of the nails, as I would expect, but it’s definitely not noticeable. My biggest issue? My nails are growing out quickly and the gap at the base is getting wider and wider, meaning I might be taking this off soon – but hey, I can’t blame Essie for that. I suggest applying as closely to the cuticle as possible to maximize wear time. Oh and for those of you wondering, I’ve been rocking the Essie Gel Couture polish in Dress Call.
Now, as this is a new line for Essie, we also see the introduction of a chic new bottle. Inspired by the swirl of a couture gown, the new collection features a bottle with a twirl shape, which will happily be on display on my polish shelves. And if the design isn’t enough for you, the collection itself will do you in. With 42 brand new shades, this brings about a large expansion to the Essie family. A wide range of shades that starts with graceful pastels, leading into bright statement makers and finishes with smoldering deep hues, I’m willing to bet there will be more than a few you’ll want to take home. The formula is fantastic as well – the polishes apply smoothly with no streaks (I was impressed with the potency of them after just one coat), and two coats will give full colour. Finish off with the top coat to seal the deal and lock in colour with high shine.
To further expand on the new design, Essie has also introduces its new patent-pending swirl stem brush for perfect application. The swirled stem picks up just enough polish for the bottle and hangs on to it to avoid drips, while the wider, tapered brush makes application a snap.
All in all, I’m pretty impressed with the Essie Gel Couture collection so far. The formula is amazing, and combined with the top coat, the results truly do last. Will you be giving these a try? What shades do you hope to see?
The Essie Gel Couture collection is available June 14, 2016 for $13.99 CAD/bottle.
Disclaimer: This post contains PR samples sent for editorial consideration, but as always opinions are 100% my own! xo