To do a semi-permanent manicure at home, it's best to have the right equipment! But what exactly? Follow the guide to prepare the perfect manicure kit.

Nothing beats semi-permanent nail polish for a long-lasting, stunning manicure. While it is always perfectly applied in a salon, it is becoming increasingly common to want to do it at home. But be careful, applying semi-permanent nail polish requires a much more specific technique than applying regular nail polish. Make sure you have the right equipment before you start. 

What is semi-permanent nail polish? 

Just to recap, semi-permanent nail polish is a long-lasting alternative to traditional nail polish. It is a type of nail polish that is applied like regular nail polish, but is then cured under a UV or LED lamp for a (much) longer hold. Semi-permanent nail polish can last up to two weeks on the nails, without chipping or color deterioration. It is often used as an alternative to gel or acrylic false nails because it is easier to remove and less damaging to the natural nail.

There are many brands of semi-permanent nail polish on the market, each with its own formula and its own range of colors. While beauty salons have made semi-permanent manicure services their specialty, it is now possible to apply it yourself at home with a semi-permanent nail polish kit! 

 The equipment you need to apply semi-permanent nail polish at home

The semi-permanent nail polish kit consists of different elements, all essential for a proper manicure application. Be careful, always make sure to choose quality equipment.

The UV or LED lamp 

This is probably the most important element (along with the nail polish) for doing a semi-permanent manicure at home. The UV or LED lamp is used to cure the nail polish and give it that long-lasting hold so characteristic of semi-permanent nail polish. How to choose your UV or LED lamp? Several factors should be taken into account, such as: the brand, the power of the lamp which determines the curing time (36 watts is sufficient for home use), the type of lamp (the LED lamp is more expensive but the drying time is faster and it is less harmful to health than UV lamps), the size of the lamp depending on your hand and the space available at home, additional features such as a timer or motion sensor.

The type of semi-permanent nail polish 

Obviously, the lamp and the nail polish go together! For semi-permanent, you need to choose a gel nail polish. Make sure to choose a brand you like and that offers colors to your taste. Some lamp brands work better with certain nail polish brands, don't hesitate to do the necessary research beforehand.  

The manicure essentials 

Nail polish remover (specifically for semi-permanent nail polish), a cuticle pusher, cotton pads, nail clippers, a nail file, or even a buffer. The manicure essentials usually don't change for semi-permanent nail polish and will help you, in particular, define the desired shape for your nails! 

The base coat and top coat 

Just like choosing the nail polish, the base coat and top coat must be adapted to semi-permanent nail polish, otherwise you can say goodbye to your long-lasting manicure. Why a protective base coat? Semi-permanent nail polish is a little more aggressive on the nail than regular nail polish, so it is essential to preserve the surface of the nail with an adequate base coat. The top coat, on the other hand, will act as a finishing polish and solidify the gel nail polish by creating a beautiful shiny and protective layer. This is what makes it truly durable and allows for a perfect manicure.

What about removal? 

How to remove semi-permanent nail polish? Indeed, the question arises, especially since it is a completely different step than for regular nail polish. Semi-permanent nail polish is not removed like regular nail polish! The usual nail polish remover will not work on it, it is better to choose one with acetone. Note that you must avoid scratching or pulling off the nail polish stuck to the nails at all costs... Otherwise you will bitterly regret it. So, make sure to follow the recommended protocol and remove your semi-permanent nail polish with the right equipment. 

How does semi-permanent nail polish removal work?

Semi-permanent nail polish removal can be scary but don't let that stop you, it is actually a simple process that can be done at home by carefully following these steps:

1.  Preparation: start by removing the top layer of the semi-permanent nail polish using a gentle nail file. This will allow the nail polish remover to penetrate the nail polish more easily. Then, cut pieces of aluminum foil or use nail clips to wrap each nail with a cotton pad soaked in nail polish remover specifically for semi-permanent nail polish.

2. Soaking time: Leave the cotton pads soaked in nail polish remover on the nails for about 10 to 15 minutes. The soaking time may vary depending on the type of semi-permanent nail polish used and the brand of nail polish remover, so always make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Removal: After the soaking time, remove the cotton pads by gently rubbing to remove the softened semi-permanent nail polish. Use a cuticle stick to help remove the nail polish.

4. Finishing: Once all the semi-permanent nail polish has been removed, rinse your hands with warm water and apply cuticle oil, a moisturizing cream to protect and nourish the skin, and finally a nail serum to boost the growth of your natural nails.