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Welcome to Beautyistic, where we take a closer look at some of the best beauty products on the market. Today, we’re focusing on something that’s an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves a flawless manicure: the essie Nail Care, 8-Free Vegan, No Chips Ahead Top Coat. If you’re someone who’s constantly fighting the battle of chipped nails and peeling polish, this product promises a solution. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype.
First things first, let’s talk about what this product actually does. The essie No Chips Ahead Top Coat is a clear nail polish designed to seal in color and deliver that glossy, just-painted look. It’s formulated to protect your nails from everyday wear and tear, so you can go longer between manicures without worrying about chips or peeling.
This top coat is infused with acrylic resin, which helps strengthen and shield the nail from those frustrating chips and tip wear. This means it’s designed to deliver that salon-quality finish at home. If you’re someone who needs a manicure that lasts, essie claims this formula locks in your polish, keeping it intact longer than traditional top coats.
In terms of application, it’s pretty straightforward. After applying your base coat and a couple of layers of your favorite essie color, just follow up with a single coat of this top coat. What’s great is that it’s formulated for high-gloss shine, leaving nails looking sleek and smooth.
Now, let’s talk about the experience of using it in real life. After applying it over my usual essie shades, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it dried and how glossy it made my nails look. No streaks, no cloudiness – just that perfect, shiny finish that you expect from a professional manicure.
I also noticed that my nails stayed chip-free for a solid five days. That’s impressive, especially considering that I’m typing and doing household chores all day. It’s not uncommon for me to see wear around the edges within two or three days, but with this top coat, the color stayed intact longer, which was a major win.
But no product is perfect, and while I love the results, the one thing I noticed is that the shine didn’t last as long as I would’ve liked. By day six, I could see a slight dulling around the edges, but for a product that promises chip-resistance, I’m still very satisfied with how long the color held up.
As for the formula, the fact that it’s 8-Free and vegan is a big plus, especially for those who are more conscious of what goes into their beauty products. It’s free from some of the harsh chemicals often found in nail products, so if you have sensitive nails or prefer clean beauty, this is a solid choice.
Value for money-wise, at $9.50 for 0.46 fl oz, it’s a bit on the pricier side for a top coat. However, given that it delivers solid results – especially in terms of durability – I’d say the price is justified. You’re paying for a product that works, and with essie’s reputation for quality, it’s a safe bet for anyone looking to enhance their nail care routine.
In comparison to other top coats I’ve tried, I’d say this one holds up pretty well against the competition, especially in terms of its chip resistance. It’s not the most affordable option out there, but it’s a quality product. For those on a budget, there are other options, like Sally Hansen’s Insta-Dri, which works similarly but at a lower price point.
The packaging is what you’d expect from essie – simple, sleek, and functional. The brush applies the product smoothly and evenly without much fuss, and the bottle is just the right size for home use.
If I had to offer a cheaper alternative, I’d recommend looking at the Sally Hansen Insta-Dri or even OPI’s Top Coat. Both are slightly more affordable while still offering decent performance in terms of longevity and shine. However, if you’re looking for something that gives you a little more luxury and is designed to be vegan, essie’s No Chips Ahead is a solid pick.
To wrap up, essie’s No Chips Ahead Top Coat does exactly what it promises – it locks in color, prevents chips, and gives a glossy finish. If you’re willing to invest a bit more in your nail care routine, this is an excellent choice. The formula is vegan, the performance is impressive, and it provides that professional-level manicure right at home.
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And, of course, I’d love to hear from you – if you’ve tried this top coat or have any nail care tips of your own, drop a comment below and share your thoughts.
Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay beautiful inside and out!
Available to buy here:
