To do your semi-permanent manicure at home, you need the right equipment! But what exactly? Follow our guide to the perfect manicure kit.

Rien ne vaut le vernis semi-permanent pour s'offrir une manucure durable et canon. Si elle est toujours parfaitement exécutée en institut, il est de plus en plus courant de vouloir la pratiquer à la maison. Mais attention, la pose de vernis semi-permanent nécessite une technique beaucoup plus spécifique que la pose d'un vernis classique. Assurez vous d'avoir le bon matériel avant de vous lancer. 

Le vernis permanent, qu'est-ce que c'est ? 

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

There are many brands of semi-permanent varnish on the market, each with its own formula and color range. While beauty salons have made semi-permanent manicure services their dada, it's now possible to apply it yourself at home with a semi-permanent varnish kit! 

 The equipment you need to apply semi-permanent varnish at home

The semi-permanent varnish kit is made up of different elements, all essential for the successful application of your manicure. Make sure you choose quality materials.

UV or LED lamps 

This is probably the most important element (along with the varnish) in achieving a semi-permanent manicure at home. The UV or LED lamp is used to harden the varnish and give it the long-lasting hold so characteristic of semi-permanent varnish. How to choose your UV or LED lamp? A number of factors need to be taken into account, such as: the brand, the wattage of the lamp, which determines the curing time (36 watts is sufficient for home use), the type of lamp (LED lamps are more expensive, but cure faster and are less harmful to health than UV lamps), the size of the lamp in relation to the size of your hand and the space available at home, and additional features such as a timer or motion sensor.

The type of semi-permanent varnish 

Obviously, the lamp and the varnish can't go without each other! For semi-permanent nail polish, choose a gel nail polish. Make sure you choose a brand you like, with colors to suit your taste. Some lamp brands work better with certain varnish brands, so don't hesitate to do your research beforehand.  

Manicure essentials 

From nail polish remover (special for semi-permanent nail polish) to cuticle remover, cotton pads, nail clippers, files and polishers. The manicure essentials are the same as always for semi-permanent nail polish, and will help you define the shape you want for your nails! 

Base and top coat 

As with the choice of varnish, the base and top coat must be adapted to the semi-permanent varnish, otherwise you can kiss your long-lasting manicure goodbye. Why a protective base coat? Semi-permanent varnish is a little more aggressive on the nail than conventional varnish, so it's essential to protect the nail surface with a suitable base coat. The top coat, on the other hand, acts as a finishing varnish, solidifying the gel varnish and creating a lovely, shiny, protective layer. This makes it truly long-lasting and ensures a perfect manicure.

What about removal? 

How to remove semi-permanent nail polish? Indeed, the question arises, especially since it's a completely different step than for classic nail polish. Semi-permanent nail polish cannot be removed like classic nail polish! Regular nail polish remover won't work, so it's better to choose one with acetone. Note that you must avoid scratching or tearing off the nail polish stuck to your nails at all costs... otherwise you'll bitterly regret it. So, we're committed to following the recommended protocol and removing our semi-permanent nail polish with the appropriate equipment. 

How do I apply semi-permanent varnish?

Removing semi-permanent varnish can be scary but don't let that stop you, it's actually a simple process that can be done at home by diligently following these steps:

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

2. Application time: Leave the nail polish remover-soaked cotton pads on your nails for around 10 to 15 minutes. Laying time may vary according to the type of semi-permanent nail polish used and the brand of remover, so always make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Removal: After the application time, remove the cotton pads by rubbing gently to remove the softened semi-permanent varnish. Use a boxwood stick to help remove the varnish.

4. Finishing: Once all the semi-permanent varnish 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.