Hello, beauties!
I've got
something a little different to share today. I recently had the
opportunity to try Pinky Petals Chrome Mirror Nail Powder Kit.
I'd
been seeing these chrome manis around, but wasn't sure I'd be able to
accomplish the look. I think I managed, with some trial and error. I
looked around and found some helpful tips from the kind and lovely Kim,
over at Ten Little Canvases. Checking out her blog post and video sooner
would have prevented most of my mistakes, but better late than never,
right? Anyhow, I like how they turned out, and my nails have been on constant
bling since the moment these powders arrived.
This
kit comes with a total of twelve different mirror powders in cute
little pots labeled with numbers. It includes double-ended sponge
applicators like the ones included in an eyeshadow palette. It also
includes a cute, framed chart of samples showing each powder's effect.
To
use these powders, you'll need your gel base coat, your choice of
polish (any color you like, but black gives the most colorful and
dramatic effect; I used LeChat Perfect Match in Black Velvet), a no-wipe
gel top coat, your choice of applicator, and a brush to sweep away
excess powder. After your polish, apply and cure your top coat. Lightly dip your
applicator into your powder of choice, and rub it over the nail. You'll
want to be thorough when rubbing, paying attention to the cuticles and
edges, and a little powder goes a long way. Top coat again, cure, and voilà! I do have a couple tips and
observations that may be helpful, but first, here are the swatches!
These
powders are everything, and the color shifts in some of them are
absolutely drool-worthy! I did note a couple things. I got a much more
mirror-like finish using a silicone nail brush than the sponge
applicators. Also, after several manicures, I realized that the rubbing
causes the sponges to deteriorate, so I ended up with sponge bits
everywhere before I realized what was happening.
I
tried using two different top coats, as well. I used Gel II and
Wildflowers. I got better, shinier results using the Wildflowers. Gel II
application looked more glittery, and Wildflowers had the more mirrored
effect. While the sponge applicators and Gel II both worked fine, the
effects of the powders shone through more using the silicone and
Wildflowers. I'd compare it to the difference between scattered and
linear holos...while they're both beautiful, one is more intense and
eye-catching. I've also read that nails done using pigments and powders
can chip rather quickly, and some people recommend an additional layer
of top coat to extend wear. I just did a single coat for swatching, and
so far, I'm on day 4, with no chips and minimal tip wear. I'll keep
doubling the top coat in mind for manis I need to last.
If you've stuck
with me through all my rambling, thanks for reading. Also, stay tuned
for some upcoming nail art with these pretties! If you'd like to know
more about this fabulous mirror powder, you can find the kit here.
Thanks for stopping by!
