Review : Deborah Lippman Gel Lab Mini Set

I first came across the Deborah Lippman Gel Lab Mini Set when I was browsing in the Sephora at my local JCP.  I was very intrigued by the set, but didn’t want to pay $25 for it (the full-size version is $45).  But when I went home, I kept thinking about it.  How awesome would it be to get gel-like nails using regular nail polish colors?!  Yes, $25 is expensive, but that’s also about equal to the cost of a set of gel nails at the salon, so $25 for many uses wouldn’t be that bad of a deal.

A short time ago, I was placing an order on the Sephora website, and threw the set into my cart so I could qualify for free shipping on my order.  I was down-right excited to get this product in and try it!

The set comes with a base coat, a top coat, and a small zipper pouch for storage.  The set even comes with special instructions on how to apply the system.  I followed these steps exactly as I painted my nails, while still using my trick for getting the salon-look at home and made sure to “cap” my nails.

Right after a fresh paint!  How pretty!

I wanted so, so badly to like this product, but it did not live up to my expectations.  Granted, I had high expectations for this set, but I feel like $25 spent on nail polish should mean high expectations.  The first time I polished my nails with it, the polish chipped within 18 hours of application.  I was so disappointed!  But I decided to try it again.  Same results.  I’m not a quitter, so I gave it one more chance–same results.  My nails chipped less than 12 hours later! So much for the long-lasting aspect.  Also, my nails appeared to be just as shiny using my regular top coat as they were with this top coat.

In no time at all, this is what my nails looked like:(

I picked this shade up out of the $1 clearance bin at Sephora. I don’t know the name of it, but I love it!

Verdict: Save your money.  Overall, I was very disappointed that the product didn’t live up to my expectations.  If I’m paying that much for something, I expect a manicure that lasts longer than 18 hours!  Granted, Deborah Lippman did suggest using their 2 Second Nail Primer for longer wear, but after paying $25 for a mini set, I don’t want to have to shell out extra money.

Don’t forget to go check out my tutorial for how to get that salon-look at home!