I've officially stepped up my nail-polish game

I was all about gel manicures when CND first launched Shellac, because who didn’t want shiny, chip-resistant color that lasted for two weeks (or more!)? But eventually I realized I didn’t want the associated nail damage in the form of peeling and brittleness (which I inevitably made worse thanks to my tendency to pick the gel off once it started to lift). Then about two years ago I got way into dip manicures because they last even longer—but came to learn they too lead to damage in the form of nail thinning since they require a significant amount of buffing both to prep the nails and get old color off.

Then, I checked my nails into rehab (so to speak), keeping them short, neat and polished with clear strengthening polish for a good six months. Once that last visible ridge from my final dip manicure was gone, I started doing my own nails and haven’t looked back since. I’ve been using regular nail polish, which usually doesn’t give me more than five days of wear (if that) thanks to typing for eight hours a day and mom duties like cooking and dish-washing.

That’s when I finally caved and decided to try Essie’s Gel Couture. (I know I’m late to the game here.) I ordered the “Fairy Tailor” shade (which could be mistaken for Essie’s regular “Mademoiselle”) and Gel Couture Top Coat—and spent the next few days before it arrived wondering if it could it possibly last for up to two weeks without the need for UV curing. I’m happy to report that yes it can.

Now that I’ve seen this polish’s durability for myself, I’ll be buying a classic red (and perhaps something fun for the forthcoming spring and summer) the next time I’m at the supermarket or drugstore. And the fact that I don’t have to make a special trip to the mall, order online or spend a bundle makes it even better!