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It withstood 18 days of wear.
Doctors tell you not to self-diagnose via the internet, but I don’t always listen to good advice. I did just that after experiencing red, swollen, and sometimes blistering cuticles after getting gel nail polish and extensions. The internet told me that I was dealing with the increasingly common problem of a gel allergy and a nail technician confirmed.
Of course, it bummed me out—I love gel nails and the ease of a manicure that doesn’t chip for weeks. I perked up when I remembered a regular nail polish from the brand Kbshimmer, which had so much lasting power, it surprised me. I’ve since returned to the brand, but am reaching for a different formula: Stop and Smell the Rosé, a beige-pink holographic nail polish. Despite being just $12, it looks expensive and lasts for weeks.
Kbshimmer Stop and Smell the Rosé Nail Polish
$12 at Amazon
Before applying two coats of Kbshimmer nail polish, I began my manicure with Chanel’s La Base Camelia Base Coat Polish; since I would be forgoing extensions for the foreseeable future, I wanted to use a base that would make my nails grow. The final results were akin to the holographic manicures of my gel days with an effect that was actually relatively muted—which I prefer.
What really makes Kbshimmer stand out is its lasting power. Despite subjecting my nails to some home improvement products and daily wear and tear, I was able to go 18 days before taking it off. That is not to say, however, that they were in perfect condition; there was some chipping (mostly around the tips), which might have been avoided if I used a top coat.
Between concealers that grow my nails and polishes that last for weeks, I’m hopeful that I won’t miss gel manicures. Good nail polish shades are a dime a dozen, so head to Amazon to shop Kbshimmer’s Stop and Smell the Rosé Nail Polish and more of the shades I’ll be trying below.
Sip Back and Relax Nail Polish
$12 at Amazon
Prism Break Holo Nail Polish Top Coat
$12 at Amazon
Fig-Get About It Nail Polish
$12 at Amazon