Why a blog?

Somewhere to jot down all things I am passionate about.
My little space to rant, rave and ramble on about this and that.
Most of all, just to share my thoughts with the world!

Showing posts with label Nail Care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nail Care. Show all posts

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Revitanail Top Coat


Hi babes  :-h  Well, as per the norm lately, yet even more drama’s have eventuated in my home life!  ~X(   Hmm, it all boils down to the joys of being a mummy, LOL!  :))  This time………(wait for it   :-w   ) my three year old daughter has ended up with a broken collar bone and has been basically bed ridden (or unable to do anything for herself) so, your truly has needed to be at her ‘beck and call’ for the past week and quite frankly it’s starting to send me a little bonkers   b-(  hehe  ;))  Anyway, I’m trying to squeeze in my ‘ME’ time whenever possible, to keep up with my poor, neglected blog and several current beauty trials.  I’m getting there slowly but surely (thanks to the frequent caffeine boosts  ~O)  ), whilst trying to keep my sanity as I go ;) 

This is yet another product sent through to me from Tammerly aka Pink Diva at Spolit, which just so happens to coincide with a couple of my previous blogs featuring Revitanail products.  Having already trialled and reviewed the Revitanail Ridge Filler and the Revitanail Nourishing Oil, I didn’t hesitate to put my hand up and take on the rather enjoyable task (or playtime in the eyes of a beauty addict  :x  ) of test driving the Revitanail Top Coat.  :)  Here are my thoughts, based on the review I submitted here:

A top coat is essential when doing my nails as it forms a hard, transparent protective coating over my nail polish and prevents chipping, flaking, peeling and smudging, prolonging the colour and the durability.  It’s the final step of my manicure after applying a base coat and additional layers of coloured polish to ensure my manicure lasts the distance.  It also completes the presentation, so my nails are enveloped with a rich, glossy shine.  The Revitanail Top Coat boasts the standard Revitanail packaging, which looks classy and of high quality, however, whilst it doesn’t brandish what I would classify as a budget price tag, the cost is reasonable in comparison to a similar product from some of the high end nail care brands.  :)>-

Like the other polishes and nail care products I am familiar with in the Revitanail range, this top coat comes in a 14ml glass bottle with a decent size brush attached to the screw-top lid.  The formula has a thin consistency that makes it easy to apply from base to tip and it prompts a quick drying time without any bubbles or clumpiness.  It is scented with the typical chemical odour I have come to expect from most mainstream nail care products and I have to say it’s not a scent that I am fond of at all.  :-<   Fortunately, the scent does deplete soon after drying,   #:-S   although I must admit I would prefer not to smell it at all, because it often triggers my fragrance sensitivity and induces headaches.  :|  I would advise people to use this product in a well ventilated area to avoid any issues caused by the strong fumes.  *-:)  That aside, the smooth shiny finish looks immaculate and even works a charm on my bare nails, when I want them to adorn a flawless, well-groomed appearance.  It also helps to revamp my manicure, by re-applying the top coat to my nails every second day, I can extend the life of my polish, which normally starts looking tacky after a the first day, because I am so hard on my hands and nails c/o general day to day cleaning tasks around the home.  The top coat shields my nails from general wear and tear exceptionally well, more so than other top coats I have previously tried.  =D>

Other than the unpleasant fragrance  :-&  I am actually happy with the performance and longevity this top coat provides.  :D  It doesn’t seem to dry out my nails, so I suspect the ingredients (though not very kind to my nose) are quite hydrating and better for sensitive nails like mine rather than many commercial nail care products I’ve used that just damage my nail bed, resulting in brittle, peeling nails.  #-o   My nails are actually in great shape at the moment, ever since I have been using the Revitanail range, so two thumbs up from me in that respect, as drying, toxic ingredients have always caused havoc to my nails in the past.  :-/  I find the Revitanail Top Coat leaves my nails feeling stronger and harder, sealing my polish and keeping it looking flawless longer, maintaining the colour intensity and delivering a super smooth, luminous finish that lasts and lasts.  \:D/  The results are clearly evident and I would indeed recommend it to anyone wanting a noticeable difference to their manicure, with a gorgeous, professional looking shine and ultimate protection guaranteeing that the nails remain looking well polished and unmarred for an extended period.  <:-P   I rate it 4 Stars out of 5  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  with the overbearing pungency being the only letdown.

Do you use a top coat as an essential step in your nail care routine?  Do you find it makes your manicure last longer or even helps to protect your nails?  :-?  Have you tried any Revitanail products yourself, if so how would you rate your experience with them?

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Revitanail Ridge Filler


Howdy again Guys!  :-h  This is yet another review coinciding with my current trial team work for Spolit.  Cheers to Tammerly aka Pink Diva, who on behalf of Spoilt kindly sent me this product to trial and review.  This is my experience with the Revitanail Ridge Filler.

This product is like a foundation for my nails that preps them prior to polishing by filling in any flaws, like ridges and rough patches to level out the nail surface to achieve a smooth and uniform canvas.  By promoting polish adhesion, it allows nail polish to apply evenly, while enhancing the staying power.  By enveloping my nail with this protective layer staining of the nail is prevented, one of the few setbacks when constantly rocking a punchy bold or bright nail colour.  Infused with beneficial conditioning ingredients such as Essential Oils, Vitamins and Calcium, along with nourishing Pearl Powder, all integrated to provide supplementary nail care; it’s ultimately a clever multi-tasking nail product.  *-:) It brandishes the usual, stylish Revitanail packaging, representing upmarket quality, with an appropriate price tag to match;  :-S  however, in this case, it’s no more costly than similar, high-end brands, if not slightly cheaper.  #:-S  But, how does it compare with the likes of those common, very popular, top-shelf nail labels?  :-/  Well, in my opinion, it’s on par, so I believe it’s actually better value for money.  <:-P

Housed in a glass bottle, featuring a good-sized brush attached to a screw-on lid, the formula itself looks white and opaque, but when applied to the nail, it’s completely transparent.  The consistency is exactly as I prefer, not to thick and gloopy, yet not too thin and runny, instead, it’s perfectly textured, therefore it’s easy to spread from nail to tip.  Most importantly, it dries rapidly, which impresses me the most, as I tend to get impatient at the best of times when waiting for nail polish to dry.  The biggest downside of this product, which is not at all different to an average nail polish anyway, is the strong chemical scent.  :-&  Fortunately, it’s not headache inducing, but still quite potent all the same, especially as I’m occasionally affected by fragrance sensitivity, so I was relieved when it disappeared just as fast as it dried.  B-)  Like all Revitanail lacquers though, it’s void of three of the most toxic, potentially harmful chemicals, Formaldehyde, Toluene and Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP).  My nails don’t suffer too badly of ridges, hence the need to use only one coat in lieu of my normal base, although two coats may be necessary for those who have notably deeper ridges.  I have taken to often using it alone, without polish, as I’m partial to the effect it creates, prominently adorning my natural nails with a beautiful, well-groomed appearance.  :x  Even after I remove my manicure, it’s appeasing to reveal that my nails are not dried out any further! This, I suspect, is due to the remarkably hydrating ingredients and the fact that it is Big-3-free, minus the likes of Formaldehyde that has been extremely damaging to my nails in the past.  :-O  ;)


Overall, I am thrilled with the performance of the Revitanail Ridge Filler for prolonging the life of my manicure when used to prime my nails.  =D>  Not only does it bond the enamel better to my nail, it helps my manicures withstand the daily abuse my hands are subject to (during a typical day in the life of a stay-at-home mum) by delivering greater longevity that keeps my polish looking flawless longer.  I’m positive it’s effectually safeguarding my nails against staining as well, because they no longer bear any unsightly discolouration or yellowing associated with frequent nail polish use, so it does its job reliably in that respect too.  I can also vouch that it strengthens my nails upon application, making them feel much harder than normal.  I’m not sure if strengthening is one of it’s claims, but it’s definitely a bonus, which I personally appreciate, considering my nails are not in the best shape ATM,  :">  brittle and prone to peeling and breaking, thus the extra fortifying support sustains even greater durability.  \:D/  I wouldn’t hesitate in using this product on a regular basis, either as a base coat to erase imperfections before a manicure, or on its own, when I wish to adopt an elegantly smooth, polished finish to my natural nails, without needing to rely on buffing.  I would certainly recommend and suggest it to anyone who is serious about DIY manicures, because it’s the perfect investment for those wanting salon-worthy results from the comfort and convenience of your own home.  I am awarding it with 4.5 out of 5 stars, (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  1/2(*)  only losing a half star because of the unpleasant fragrance. :P

How are you nails?  Do you think a ridge filler would be something that would be of use for you?  Do you use a base coat prior to applying colour nail polish?  What is your favourite, please share?  :)



Image in this post is generic.

Revitanail Nourishing Oil


Hi Guys!  :-h  This review coincides with my current trial team work for Spolit.  A big shout out to Tammerly aka Pink Diva, who on behalf of Spoilt, kindly sent me this product to trial and review.  This post is a reflection on my experience with the Revitanail Nourishing Oil that is reviewed and published here.  :)

This high quality revitalising cuticle treatment oil contains a blend of botanicals, antioxidants, multi-vitamins, nourishing oils and UV filters to condition and protect the cuticles, whilst assisting in the maintenance of optimal nail health.  It comes in the signature, classy packaging that I have come to expect from Revitanail, presenting a 14ml glass bottle with a screw-on lid attached with an applicator brush, exactly like a regular nail polish.  The incredibly lightweight oil has a thin fluid-like consistency that boasts a mild floral, herbal-based aroma that is refreshingly crisp and a formulation that is ultra soothing, without being greasy.  It appears a translucent yellow colour in the bottle but goes on crystal clear and absorbs rapidly, transforming the skin surrounding the nail instantly, so it feels soft and moisturised, less any sticky residue and I love how shiny and smooth it makes my nails look.  :x  The brush applicator can sometimes transfer too much oil, but to avoid wastage, I wipe the brush well on the inside of the bottle to remove any excess then aim to apply just a small dot on each nail, which is sufficient to glide over my nails with ease, permitting for even distribution.  ;)

This cuticle treatment oil is ideal to keep handy for frequent use, which I try to apply whenever I remember; lately it’s averaging twice daily.  I simply paint each nail with a small quantity of this luxurious oil and then relax as I spend some quality ‘ME’ time massaging it gently into each nail, cuticle and the surrounding skin.  :D  The directions suggest that you continue massaging for one minute, leaving me confused as to weather that means one minute per nail or one minute all up?  :-/  Either way, I am confident that by the time I indulge in my mini nail pampering session, (i.e. finished massaging) that adequate time would have past.  #:-S  In terms of being cost effective, I consider this product to be reasonably priced, conceding it is enriched with a line-up of superior nurturing ingredients such as Vitamins A and E and the cocktail of oils, more prominently Sweet Almond, Jojoba and Apricot Oils to stimulate total rejuvenation and promote active nail growth.  ;;)

I am rather smitten with the Revitanail Nourishing Oil and considered it veritably worthwhile in conditioning my recently shunned nails.  \:D/   It has worked to revamp my dry, ragged, dishpan hands into a more presentable appearance, prompting better hydration and softer cuticles, whilst providing my natural nails with a polished finish and a gorgeous, external sheen to epitomise a more healthy-looking nail plate in general.  Because I unfortunately let my nails go of late (due to my own laziness) they were quite neglected,  :">  but since I’ve been religiously using this oil to aide in the repair of my damaged nail beds, the new growth, emerging below my existing weak, brittle nail tips, is evidently beginning to gain strength. =D>  Over time, I am hoping it will continue to help my nails grow through longer, stronger and more flexible, with fewer symptoms, like peeling and splitting.  It is very promising, although at this stage, due to a short trial period, I am rating it with 4 stars out of 5,  (*) (*)  (*)  (*) but time will tell if I successfully procure the results I am after, in which case perhaps, I could award it with an extra star!  ;)

Do you use a cuticle oil and do you find them to be a necessary step in your nail care routine?  How do you keep your cuticles in tip-top shape?  :-?  Have you tried any Revitanail products yet, if so share your experience in the comments below :) 


Image in this post is generic.