ORLY Magnetic FX Nail Polish in 'Force Field'

Hello everybody!  :-h   Lately, I’ve been spending less time online and that means not frequenting very much in the way of beauty forums and websites,  :(  so to be completely honest, I’ve basically been hidden under a rock when it came to magnetic polishes  :">  and until now I hadn’t even heard of them much less tried any.  L-)  (shh that can be our little secret   :-$  nobody has to know  ;)  ) When I scored the ORLY Magnetic FX Nail Polish, from Tammerly to test out and review for her blog Spoilt, which is linked through here.  I was completely clueless  :-B  and needed to undertake a bit of research online to read the instructions step by step and learn more about it. 

The limited edition ORLY Magnetic FX Nail Polish is a current trend, taking the concept of nail art to a whole new level.  The nail lacquer is infused with microscopic metallic particles and when painted onto the nail and held in front of a special magnet, the particles get drawn toward it, creating a fashionable, contemporary-looking design.  The collection only comes in three shades, but each colour has its own unique pattern.  I received the shade ‘Force Field’, a gorgeous, deep, shimmery, plum coloured purple, speckled with hints of red, silver and gold.  ‘Force Field’ consists of horizontal lines that have a soft, gradual curve.  :-*

Force Field

The ORLY Magnetic FX Nail Polish comes in a large 18ml glass bottle with an innovative rubber grip cap, featured throughout the entire ORLY range, which allows for better hold and maximum control.  The magnet is positioned on a clear, plastic, removable ring shaped tool that snaps onto the neck of the bottle, at the base of the lid. A tag also hangs on the bottle and this boasts the design of the magnet and instructions for use.  The brush is a decent length and width, without being too bulky, enabling a precise, even application.  \:D/

The formula, like all ORLY nail lacquers, is ‘3-Free’, meaning it’s void of the most dangerous and disputed toxic chemicals, toluene, formaldehyde and DBP that were, at one stage, regularly included in the composition of nail polishes.  #:-S  The ORLY Magnetic FX Nail Polish has a creamy consistency and applies smoothly with no streaking and is quick to dry.  ‘Force Field’ is a full coverage lacquer; therefore, I only need to use one coat to produce brilliant opacity.  To use, I simply paint it on, one nail at a time and working quickly, while it’s still wet, place the underside of my nail tip on the outer lip of the magnetic tool, for support, positioning the nail within millimetres of the magnet, where it must remain for 10 seconds to allow the design to form.  This step is then repeated for each nail.  There are three ways I discovered to use the magnetic tool; it can be held with your free hand, put directly onto a hard surface, or my preferred method is to leave it attached to the bottle, for greater comfort and better performance.  When used at this height, I can prop each nail onto the lip, whilst my hand rests freely to prevent too much movement.  I personally thought the magnet could have been bigger, as the small size makes it awkward and fiddly at times, but thankfully my nails are reasonably short and not very wide, so the pattern covers the whole of my nail, yet on my slightly larger thumbs, it appears toward the centre only, which is probably the effect someone with long or large nails could expect.  :-<  The durability is above average, providing me between 3-5 days of wear without chipping, depending on how hard I’ve been on my hands at the time.  To maintain optimal results, this polish should be used in conjunction with a good quality base and top coat.  <:-P

Force Field - Finished Effect

I was chuffed at the effective results of the ORLY Magnetic FX Nail Polish and after I eventually got the hang of it, the application process was a breeze.  :x   Initially, it took a few attempts before I mastered the art of using the magnetic tool, as it was a bit tricky trying not to bump the wet lacquer on the magnet and make a smudgy mess, oops!   #-o  In any case, after a few failures, when there is only one option…..to remove the polish and start again, it definitely became easier over time and the practice paid off.  ;)  Now, with just two basic steps, I can transform my nails into a groovy, ultra chic design, with minimal fuss, using only one product.   B-) When I step out adoring the ORLY Magnetic FX Nail Polish, my manicure earns me heaps of compliments and I’m frequently asked ‘How did you do that?’ to which I simply reply ‘MAGIC!’   >-) Because, it really does take the time and effort out of nail art, promoting a funky, modern look with a touch of creative genius.  =D>

I gave it a 4.5 star rating out of 5!  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  & ½  (*) 

TIP –   *-:)  It might take a few goes before you feel competent using the magnetic tool, but as the old saying goes, practise makes perfect!

Have you tried this range before, if so what did you think?  :-?  Otherwise, have you tried any of the other numerous brands that make magnetic polishes….or maybe all of them?  Which one do you think creates the best effect?  I don’t suppose anyone else could possibly be so behind in the times that you have not heard of them either?  :-/  If it is even possible that there is anyone like that reading this, ‘holla at me please’….we’re not alone, ROFL!  =))

The images in this post are all generic.

Nailene So Natural Everyday French

As they are, prior to filing.

As they are, prior to filing.

Hello peeps  :-h   False nails have never appealed to me, especially after a nightmare-ish experience as a teen,  :-O   so I’ve avoided them like the plague ever since.  :-S   But, when Beauty Heaven offered me the opportunity to try the Nailene So Natural Everyday French, featuring a new comfort flex technology, I decided I had nothing to loose and everything to gain, confident that surely glue-on nails would have improved over the past 20 odd years.  Based on my experience, needless to say, indeed they have!  =D>

 

Filed to my desired shape/length.

Filed to my desired shape/length.

The Nailene So Natural Everyday French nail kit is presented in cardboard packaging with a clear window at the front, so consumers can view the exact colour, shape and length of the nails inside.  I was sent a short sheer pack, consisting of 24 nails in assorted sizes, a file/buffer, cuticle stick and a small tube of glue, which is ample to affix two full sets of nails and then some.  The nails were so easy to apply and fit my own nails precisely, with the whole process of sticking on the 12 nails, taking less than 5 mins to complete.  :)  The glue has the same texture and consistency as standard super glue, but without the offensive smell.  It was simple to run the glue on the back of each false nail and then quickly transfer it to my own nail, gently pressing and holding in place for a few moments to allow it to set. The drying time was only seconds, allowing me to carry straight on with the application of the rest of the nails concurrently.  It did take me some time afterward to file down the artificial nails to the shape and length that suits my preference, however this is a one off step and once it’s done the nails look so authentic nobody would ever know that they weren’t my natural nails.  ;)

Polish done, nails complete.

Polish done, nails complete.

I was super impressed by the lightweight, comfortable feel, durability and staying power, because a week later and these nails have not budged.  <:-P   I am super hard on my hands and during this past week, I’ve washed dishes twice daily, scrubbed clothing and undertaken rigorous housework and the nails have withstood my busy lifestyle.  I painted the nails using my favourite nail polish and I am amazed at how long the polish has remained looking freshly painted, with only a bit of wear and tear showing just on the tips, even after a full week.  Never, ever has my manicure lasted so long!  I have not yet removed the nails, so I can’t determine if there is any damage to the surface of my own nails at this stage, although generally the damage occurs to the nail bed,  *-:)  which can easily be avoided by keeping the cuticles constantly nourished by applying moisturising hand and nail treatments and cuticle oil/balms.  I will reassess my review at a later date, if I feel the need to alter my rating, however at this stage; I seriously can’t fault the Nailene So Natural Everyday French.  I would absolutely recommend these nails to anyone who wants gorgeous, natural-looking, low-maintenance fingernails that I personally think are just as good as professional falsies, for a fraction of the cost. Thanks to Nailene I am finally sporting the nails I always dreamed of!   \:D/

A week later, minimal wear and tear.

A week later, minimal wear and tear.

 

 

 

NOTD: Products Used

1.  CND Stickey Base Coat

2.  OPI Jade Is the New Black 

3.  CND Super Shiney Top Coat

What is your take on fake nails, do you think they are any better than the falsies of the past?  :-?  Would you use them yourself?  Have you ever tried Nailene glue on nails and if so how would you rate your experience?

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?

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.

'Tis the season to be jolly! So, who’s up for a Festive Giveaway?

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED - THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED!!!!

Fa la la la la, la la la la!  Howdy everyone. :-h  Yes, I really do think 'It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go' they’re counting down each day and waiting for the magical sleigh, with Santa Claus and his jolly ho, ho!.  ;)  I’m well and truly into the Festive spirit this year and I LOVE  :x  the joy that generosity sparks when it comes to gift-giving.  With that in mind, I decided to incorporate the good-will tradition into my blog and offer a Festive Giveaway.  *-:)   This way I can do my bit to help spread some ‘holiday cheer’ and ‘share the love’ with one lucky reader.  >:D<  It’s also the ideal opportunity to divulge how eternally grateful and humbled I am for the overwhelming support I have been given since I started my blog this year.  On that note, I believe a Giveaway is the perfect celebration to wrap up 2011, while we speculate on the brighter prospects and goals that we're aspiring toward as we go forth into 2012!  <:-P

My Christmas Tree

So, what's included in the Festive Giveaway?

I have a cupboard literally bursting at the seams with loads of brand spanking new, unopened and unused beauty products that were screaming out to go to a good home.  :-O  I personally hand picked the best of the best from this stash, so I could proffer a variety of mixed beauty booty, which I think should, favourably, appeal to the majority of my audience; all of YOU guys!  ;)  Then, eventually, I hope my Festive Giveaway serves the purpose I had in mind, to spoil someone special and lavish them with an array of gifts that aim to kindle a bit of joy and happiness, along with the reassurance in knowing they are equip with a selection of popular and useful beauty items to kick-start the New Year!  :D

Everything that is included in the Giveaway.

Here’s what’s you will WIN in my Ultimate Beauty Prize Pack :

Skin Care

• Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser in Normal or Combination 75ml
• Elizabeth Arden Prevage Face Advanced Anti-Ageing Serum 30ml
• Alpha-H Liquid Harmony 50ml
• Neutrogena Healthy Defence Daily Moisturiser SPF 30+ 50ml
• Nivea Visage Q10 Tinted Day Cream SPF 15 50ml
• Garnier Youthful Radiance 2 in 1 Tinted Eye Roll-On in Fair to Medium 15ml
• Napoleon Perdis Bronze Bombshell Body Lotion 40ml

Hair & Nails

• Essie Chinchilly Matte Duo (Taupe/Grey Polish and Matte Finisher) 2 x 15ml
• Revitanail Nail Strengthener 30ml
• Revitanail Limited Edition Mini Hair Straightener
• Pantene Aqua Light Shampoo & Conditioner 200ml ea
• L’Oreal Professionnel Tecni.art Liss Control Smooth Control Gel-Cream 150ml

Makeup etc

• Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse in Sandy Beige Medium 30ml
• Benefit High Beam 13ml
• Andrea Accents Natural Lashes in Black (1set)
• Rimmel 123 Looks Mascara in Black 9.5ml
• Rimmel Extreme Definition Two Tone Eye Definer in Party Girl
• Maybelline Eyestudio Eyeshadow Quad in Copper Chic
• Australis Intensif Eye Eyeshadow Quad in The Big Smoke
• Australis Intensif Eye Eyeshadow Trio in Out of the Blue
• Arbonne Lipstick in Scarlet
• gloMinerals Liquid Lips in Beloved
• Ecoya Natural Soy Travel Candle in Wild Frangipani

 One lucky winner will receive ALL of these goodies, valued at approximately $690 RRP

This Giveaway is open to Australian residents only (Sorry International followers,  :(  I am still trying to learn the ropes, but I promise to look into any restrictions/guidelines for the possibility of holding a worldwide promotion next time).  The Giveaway will remain open until 12pm Midday on Friday, December 23rd (Local Qld EST – Eastern Standard Time). 

Here’s what you need to do to win!  (*)

*    For 1 point - Requied

·        Follow my blog through Google Friend Connect (existing followers skip this step) and then as a follower, you can comment below, telling me the one beauty product you wish was under your Christmas tree this year, with your name on it.  

·        (1 point = 1 entry per person)

Maximise your chances of winning by completing these optional tasks for additional entry points!

*     Additional Points - Optional

·        Once you’ve completed the initial required task, you can gain a further 2 points just by following me on Twitter (@melmeko). 

·        There is yet another 2 points up for grabs, if you tweet the following – I just entered @melmeko's Festive Giveaway to #WIN over $650 worth of beauty booty, click the link urlm.in/kiww so you can enter too 

·       (Max 4 points = 4 extra entries per person, 2 for following, 2 for tweeting) 

To guarantee you get ALL of your entry points: When posting your comment, please provide your GFC name and let me know if you fulfilled any of the optional tasks.  If so, you will need to include your Twitter name, along with a link to your tweet!  

If you complete ALL three tasks (one required and two optional), you will score a total of 5 points, which will give you 5 entries into the Festive Giveaway!  Once you have reached the maximum number of points, 5 per person, you will not be entitled to any further entries for multiple comments or tweets.

One winner will be chosen via RANDOM.ORG – True Number Generator shortly after the Giveaway closure.  The selected winner will then be announced here on this blog, in due succession.  

Tip:  It’s entirely up to you, but it might be handy to leave your email address, along with your comments, so I can get in touch if your the winner, in case you don’t manage to catch the blog announcement in time.  It would be shattering to discovered that you had missed out on claiming your prize, because you had no idea you had even won, EEK!!!  :-S  Otherwise, it’s understandable if you are concerned with privacy issues, therefore if you would rather not disclose any personal contact information now, be sure to keep an eye on this blog, following the 23^rd of December as the consecutive post will reveal the Festive Giveaway winner.

Well, that’s all folks.  Good luck to each and every one of you!  %%-   Just in case we don’t get time to chat again beforehand, I will take a moment to say; I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!   :)>-

 

Whoop, whoop, yeah boii, bring it on – 2012 here we come!!!   \:D/





All images in this post are my own.