One thing that I love is having my nails looking good. I be honest, I have tried many different nail products, but truly always looking for the most low maintenance, at home option that doesn’t wreak your nails, break the bank and actually lasts. Is that too much to ask? I recently decided to give Dashing Diva GLOSS Gel Nail Strips a try and can’t wait to share with you all my experience!
What are Dashing Diva GLOSS Gel Nail Strips?
According to their website: Nail your look in minutes GLOSS. This collection of both on-trend nail art & high-impact, solid color and pedicure strips will have you full covered up to 14 days!
Here are the key features:
Nail Strips Featuring Ultra Trendy Designs
- A super strong manicure that lasts up to 14 days
- Chip-resistant, ultra-shiny nail strips
- Quick application, non-wrinkling formula
- Gentle, non-damaging removal
- Strips do not dry out, store your extras for more mani creations
You can achieve salon gel effects, with NO UV dry time, no soak off removal with chip resistant shine. Yes to all of that PLEASE 😉
Application
Each box contains 32 strips, prep pad, nail file and instructions. I have to say that application is one of the easiest that I have used.
Prep
After prepping by shaping your nails and pushing back your cuticles, use the alcohol pad to scrub each nail to make sure all of the oils are off.
Select A Size
You can measure to see which nail strip will fit best by holding it up to your nail.
Apply
Start near your cuticle, just be care full not to get too close. Carefully press the middle first making your ways to the sides and nail edge.
File
Pinch excess and use a nail file to remove whatever is hanging over your nail edge.
That’s it!! You can be up and about as soon as they’re on! Just make sure you stay away from water, lotion, and oils for a few hours after application.
How Well Did They Last
When I read 14 days, I was a bit skeptical. Especially because I tend to be a bit rough with my nails. In the past I have tried numerous “nail strips” only to have issues with wear issues pretty quickly. I’ve had them crack, peel and literally wear off.
You guys, this was after 33 days!! Yes, well beyond 14 days. Should I have kept them on that long? You can see how they were basically growing out, but there was no chipping, peeling or cracking. I even started to pick at them (bad habit, I know…)Yes, I was beyond impressed to say the least!
Removal
You are probably wondering how to remove the Dashing Diva Nail Strips. I can’t believe how easy it is! Absolutely no soaking in acetone, or using any acetone for that fact!
First, apply an ample amount of cuticle oil. After peeling off a corner along the cuticle line, gently roll the strips off. I used an orange wood stick. Don’t rush with this! It helps to apply additional oil to the fingers you’re using to roll the strips off as well. The more lubrication, the better! You can’t use too much cuticle oil 😉
My nails weren’t damaged at all. Actually, they felt great!
FAQs
Are the strips made of real nail polish? Nope! They are made of polyurethane (PU), and coated with a layer of real gel.
Do I need a base or top coat? No base coat is necessary, as our nails adhere best to bare nails! If you’re worried about nail damage caused by improper removal, we recommend applying our ‘Red Therapy Base Shield.’ You can use your favorite top coat to seal it in but, we promise, the finish is so shiny, you won’t need to!
What if I mess up a nail, can I redo it? Yes! Feel free to reposition the strips as you see fit.
I’m in between sizes, what do I do? If you’re in between sizes, size down! It’s always better to use a strip that is slightly too small, than too big. If there is any overlap on the skin along the sides or cuticle line, there may be lifting.
Why are they wrinkling? Unfortunately, nails that are on the curvier side are more susceptible to wrinkling. To minimize this, firmly press on the strips from the center outwards when applying. Wrinkling can also occur if you’re using a strip that’s too wide for your nail. The material is likely bunching up instead of being stretched out across the width of the nail bed. Try sizing down! Also, please make sure you are not using back-and-forth motions when filing.
What is the best way to protect my manicure? Don’t expose your nails to household cleansers or harsh chemicals! Nails are more permeable than skin. Even prolonged exposure to water can dry out your nails and hands. Always wear gloves when cleaning, and apply hand lotion after you wash or wet your hands. (Just make sure to stay away from water and lotion for a couple of hours after GLOSS application.)
Do I need to take manicure breaks? We recommend waiting a few days in between sets to give your nails some time to breathe. Applying a new set right away without taking a break may affect adhesion.
How do I store my leftover gloss? Do they expire? GLOSS should stay fresh for a year after being opened! Pop them in an airtight container to be extra safe.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t given Dashing Diva Gel Nails a try, you should! Each set is only around $8-for 32 strips. If that isn’t a reason right there, the fact that they are durable and last a long time is reason enough. I will say that it does help that I generally have long nails, in fact, I need to cut them all of the time. BUT if you are looking for artificial press on nails, Dashing Diva has those too. I haven’t tried them yet, but I will eventually. They also have GLAZE nail strips and PEDI strips too (I have those on order😉).
If you are ready to give them a try, click on the ad below and receive 10% off! You will get FREE shipping when you spend over $15. And when you try them, make sure you let me know what you think!
