Following in the shoes of many other brands, OPI has recently announced the launch of their new OPI Pure Lacquer Nail Apps ($11.95 USD / $14.95 CAD), shown here in Sequins (a cool black & silver design).  These nail wraps are basically stickers for nails made out of 100% pure nail lacquer- so they wear just like a polish, and remove just the same.

OPI states that you can finish them off with a top coat, or even with a layer of clear gel polish (like their new GelColor line…or any other soak-off gel polish for that matter, like Shellac or Gelish) to make it last even longer! Nail wraps have become increasingly popular lately, because of the huge trend in nail art- they make it so much more simpler to apply, with designs that look perfect each and every time.

OPI Pure Lacquer Nail Apps

These nail lacquer strips come in a sealed package (once you open it, they can dry out- so use them in a timely manner).  The strips themselves have a clear protective film, as well as a sticky backing.  The sets come with 16 strips (in 8 different sizes, so everyone is sure to find a great match). First you line it up with the cuticle, smooth the nail app down, then buff the edges to remove the excess.  It’s really quite simple, I can see why these nail accessories are so hot right now!

The design is pretty… but I found it also incredibly difficult to remove. “Removes like nail polish” just didn’t cut it for me- I had to pull out the pure acetone to soak off these wraps (which is great for long wear, not so great for trying to get all the stubborn glitter off).  The other thing I don’t like is how expensive they are. I usually don’t comment on value, however you’re paying for a one-time-use-only manicure… nearly $15 is close enough to a professional express salon manicure in some areas… so while I think they are awesome for special events, I definitely don’t think they are practical for everyday use (unless you’re a huge fan of the nail art look).

These strips come in a wide variety of colours and patterns in creme and shimmer formulas.  I definitely prefer them to the Kiss Nail Dress, which are heavier, thicker and are visually less appealing- these ones really conform to your nail perfectly like a lacquer.  Fun to try for sure… but you’re going to be paying OPI prices for a single manicure with these nail apps!

OPI Pure Lacquer Nail Apps in Sequins (in sealed package)

OPI Pure Lacquer Nail Apps in Sequins

OPI Pure Lacquer Nail Apps in Sequins

Wearing OPI Pure Lacquer Nail Apps in Sequins

Summary

• Price: $11.95 USD / $14.95 CAD
• Availability: Spas, salons and other OPI retailers
• Selection: 14 different designs (7 creams, 7 shimmers)
• Overall: Fun and easy to use, with great results each time. Very fool proof, and you can even top it off with a clear gel polish after to make it last longer. I found it hard to remove, mainly because of the glitter…and while I do think they are nice for events or special occasions, the high price tag doesn’t make them too practical for everyday use.
• Rating: B+