The 5 Best At-Home Nail Kits Of 2023, Tested & Reviewed
By Alison Bedford, Danielle Whitehead & Emma Knights
Last Updated August 2, 2023
In today's unpredictable economic climate, punctuated by a noticeable cost of living surge, even our cherished salon trips are under scrutiny. These regular visits, while uplifting, can dent our budgets considerably. But what if you could replicate that glossy, perfect manicure from the comfort of your home? Enter the world of DIY gel manicures—a perfect blend of affordability and luxury.
We rigorously tested 20 diverse nail kits, our aim: to uncover the crème de la crème that delivers both user-friendly experiences and salon-mimicking results.
After our in-depth assessment, we're excited to unveil our top five picks. Dive into our insights and equip yourself for that impeccable, salon-worthy sheen, all within your home's confines.
5.0
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 5/5
Packaging 5/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 5/5
Quality & Results 5/5
Price Per Mani £2,29
What We Like
No skin-damaging UV lamp needed
Packaging is gorgeous
4+ weeks results without chipping
Can choose from over 60 colours
Easy application & removal
Highest quality & lowest price
Can try it risk free for 3 mani's, it either works or you don't pay
What We Don't Like
Nothing
The Sassy Saints At-Home Nail Manicure Kit truly stood out in our testing, impressing us on multiple fronts. One of its standout features is the elimination of the skin damaging UV lamp— a refreshing departure from many kits. The nails dried rapidly, making the process even more convenient for those on-the-go.
Moreover, the moment we received the kit, the beautiful packaging caught our eye, exuding elegance and class. Not only was the manicure process straightforward, but it was also novice-friendly. The kit's ease of use was paralleled by the simplicity of removal, making it a delightful experience from start to finish.
A significant highlight was the lasting power of the manicure. Our nails retained their beauty and shine for over 4 weeks without the slightest hint of chipping. Such longevity is rare to find in at-home kits. To sweeten the deal, Sassy Saints offers a unique proposition: try it risk-free for 3 treatments.
This truly emphasizes the brand's confidence in its product.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a long-lasting manicure that's both easy to apply and remove, all wrapped up in sophisticated packaging, the Sassy Saints kit is a top contender.
Includes Colours: 3 |
Dry Time: 2 Mins |
Cruelty Free: Yes |
See the kit in action
4.2
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 3/5
Packaging 4/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 4/5
Quality & Results 4/5
Price Per Mani £4,49
What We Like
Dries super quick
Results are beautiful
Easy to remove, although it took pretty long
What We Don't Like
It was hard to spread the nail polish evenly on the nail
When it comes to at-home manicure excellence, the Mylee Nail Gel Polish Kit commands attention. From its comprehensive range of components to its efficiency, Mylee truly delivers an elevated DIY nail experience.
Opening the kit reveals a myriad of quality tools and products, starting with the Mylee Pro LED Lamp - a game-changer in the gel nail universe. This powerful lamp not only cures gel swiftly (between 30-60 seconds depending on application thickness), but with its advanced Pro Convex™ technology, can achieve remarkable results in as little as 15 seconds. Couple this with its impressive 50,000-hour lifespan and a reassuring 2-year warranty, and you have a lamp that promises reliability.
The color choices in the MyGel polish range—Pastel Chic, Soft Touch, Requiem For A Pink, and Diva—are versatile and stylish. Their expertly crafted formula ensures nails remain chip and smudge-free, boasting up to three weeks of pristine wear. The Mylee Prep + Wipe and Gel Remover, along with the lint-free wipes, make the application and removal process seamless.
Safety is clearly a priority for Mylee. The MyGel line is not only crafted to high-quality standards but is also fully compliant with both UK and EU safety regulations. However, users should be aware and cautious of potential skin and eye irritants, keeping the products safely out of reach of children.
Includes Colours: 4 |
Dry Time: 1 Min |
Cruelty Free: Yes |
VIEW ON MYLEE.CO.UK
4.0
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 5/5
Packaging 5/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 3/5
Quality & Results 2/5
Price Per Mani £3,67
What We Like
Compact
User friendly
Fun to use
What We Don't Like
Not long lasting
Only 2 polish colours
Seeking a manicure solution while on the move? This compact kit hit the mark in terms of ease of application, swift drying time, final aesthetic appeal, and nail health after taking it off. Think of it as your pocket-sized salon party—accessible and simple, even for the uninitiated. Due to the petite size of the lamp, the thumb does need individual attention, yet the speed at which the gel sets left us impressed.
Its glossy finish genuinely wowed us. However, the shine was short-lived as the gel began to chip in just a few days, vanishing soon after. (Tip: Prepping your nails meticulously and opting for finer coats might enhance the wear time.)
On the upside, the post-removal nail condition remained commendable. Even with its brief brilliance, we'd vouch for Le Mini Macaron, especially for those always on the go.
Includes Colours: 2 |
Dry Time: 1 Min |
VIEW ON AMAZON.CO.UK
3.6
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 4/5
Packaging 3/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 4/5
Quality & Results 2/5
Price Per Mani £7,50
What We Like
User-friendly
Smooth & hard results
Dries fast
What We Don't Like
Chips after a week
Confusing instructions
Only 1 colour
Tight on funds? Consider giving the SensatioNail Starter Kit a whirl. Admittedly, its instructions can be a tad perplexing, so it's worth familiarizing yourself with all steps before diving in. Though it might not be the most intuitive kit we've encountered, we believe subsequent applications should be smoother.
Quick drying times were achieved with the provided lamp, culminating in a pleasing manicure. (Pro tip: Applying finer layers of the lacquer and being patient during the process might enhance the appearance.) Despite the brand's two-week wear time claim, we noticed chipping around the one-week mark. It might not rival the longevity of a professional job, but it surely outperforms standard polishes in endurance.
Includes Colours: 1 |
Dry Time: 1 Min |
Cruelty Free: Yes |
VIEW ON SALLYHANSEN.COM
3.5
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 3/5
Packaging 3/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 3/5
Quality & Results 3/5
Price Per Mani £1,40
What We Like
Affordable
Dries quickly
Shiny finish
What We Don't Like
Chips after a week
Confusing instructions
Only 1 colour
If you're new to the world of gel nails, Sally Hansen is your go-to. This brand's introductory kit clinched top marks for user-friendliness, courtesy of its uncomplicated three-step routine and swift 30-second curing time.
Post-curing, our nails showcased a sturdy, slick finish devoid of any sticky residue. The salon-quality polish and topcoat conjured a lustrous, even sheen, barring a minor bubble. Even though it boasts up to a fortnight's durability, our nails faced some wear after an intense kitchen cleanup session. The aftermath left our nails a tad fragile but far from wrecked.
It's worth mentioning the kit brings along a single shade, with additional colors available for separate purchase. While it might not hold up for those constantly using their hands, we'd advocate for it as a worthy introduction for anyone keen on venturing into the realm of home-based UV-cured manicures.
Includes Colours: 1 |
Dry Time: 3 Min |
Cruelty Free: Yes |
VIEW ON AMAZON.CO.UK
written by Alison Bedford, Danielle Whitehead & Emma Knights
Last Updated February 2, 2024
In today's unpredictable economic climate, punctuated by a noticeable cost of living surge, even our cherished salon trips are under scrutiny. These regular visits, while uplifting, can dent our budgets considerably. But what if you could replicate that glossy, perfect manicure from the comfort of your home? Enter the world of DIY gel manicures—a perfect blend of affordability and luxury.
We rigorously tested 30 diverse nail kits, our aim: to uncover the crème de la crème that delivers both user-friendly experiences and salon-mimicking results.
After our in-depth assessment, we're excited to unveil our top five picks. Dive into our insights and equip yourself for that impeccable, salon-worthy sheen, all within your home's confines.
5.0
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 5/5
Packaging 5/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 5/5
Results 5/5
Price Per Mani £2,29
What We Like
It's the #1 highest rated nail kit on Trustpilot, the most trustworthy review platform out there.
Founder best friends risked their home deposits to set up this brand 🥺
No skin-damaging UV lamp needed
Packaging is gorgeous
4+ weeks results without chipping
Can choose from over 80 colours
Easy application & removal
Highest quality & lowest price
Can try it risk free for 3 mani's, it either works or you don't pay
What We Don't Like
Nothing
The Sassy Saints At-Home Nail Manicure Kit was by far our favourite at-home manicure kit. One of its standout features is that you don't need a skin damaging UV lamp— a refreshing departure from many kits. The nails dried rapidly, making the process even more convenient for those on-the-go.
Moreover, the moment we received the kit, the beautiful packaging caught our eye, exuding elegance and class. Not only was the manicure process straightforward, but it was also novice-friendly. The kit's ease of use was paralleled by the simplicity of removal, making it a delightful experience from start to finish.
A significant highlight was the lasting power of the manicure. Our nails retained their beauty and shine for over 4 weeks without the slightest hint of chipping. Such longevity is rare to find in at-home kits. To sweeten the deal, Sassy Saints offers a unique proposition: try it risk-free for 3 treatments, it either works or you don't pay. This truly emphasizes the brand's confidence in its product.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a long-lasting manicure that's both easy to apply and remove, all wrapped up in sophisticated packaging, the Sassy Saints kit is a top contender.
Includes Colours: 3 |
Dry Time: 2 Mins |
Cruelty Free: Yes
VIEW ON SASSYSAINTS.COM | £110 £69
See the kit in action
4.2
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 3/5
Packaging 4/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 4/5
Results 4/5
Price Per Mani £4,49
What We Like
Dries super quick
Results are beautiful
Easy to remove, although it took pretty long
What We Don't Like
It was hard to spread the nail polish evenly on the nail
When it comes to at-home manicure excellence, the Mylee Nail Gel Polish Kit commands attention. From its comprehensive range of components to its efficiency, Mylee truly delivers an elevated DIY nail experience.
Opening the kit reveals a myriad of quality tools and products, starting with the Mylee Pro LED Lamp - a game-changer in the gel nail universe. This powerful lamp not only cures gel swiftly (between 30-60 seconds depending on application thickness), but with its advanced Pro Convex™ technology, can achieve remarkable results in as little as 15 seconds. Couple this with its impressive 50,000-hour lifespan and a reassuring 2-year warranty, and you have a lamp that promises reliability.
The color choices in the MyGel polish range—Pastel Chic, Soft Touch, Requiem For A Pink, and Diva—are versatile and stylish. Their expertly crafted formula ensures nails remain chip and smudge-free, boasting up to three weeks of pristine wear. The Mylee Prep + Wipe and Gel Remover, along with the lint-free wipes, make the application and removal process seamless.
Safety is clearly a priority for Mylee. The MyGel line is not only crafted to high-quality standards but is also fully compliant with both UK and EU safety regulations. However, users should be aware and cautious of potential skin and eye irritants, keeping the products safely out of reach of children.
Includes Colours: 4 |
Dry Time: 1 Min |
Cruelty Free: Yes
4.0
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 5/5
Packaging 5/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 3/5
Results 2/5
Price Per Mani £3,67
What We Like
Compact
User friendly
Fun to use
What We Don't Like
Not long lasting
Only 2 polish colours
Seeking a manicure solution while on the move? This compact kit hit the mark in terms of ease of application, swift drying time, final aesthetic appeal, and nail health after taking it off. Think of it as your pocket-sized salon party—accessible and simple, even for the uninitiated. Due to the petite size of the lamp, the thumb does need individual attention, yet the speed at which the gel sets left us impressed.
Its glossy finish genuinely wowed us. However, the shine was short-lived as the gel began to chip in just a few days, vanishing soon after. (Tip: Prepping your nails meticulously and opting for finer coats might enhance the wear time.)
On the upside, the post-removal nail condition remained commendable. Even with its brief brilliance, we'd vouch for Le Mini Macaron, especially for those always on the go.
Includes Colours: 2 |
Dry Time: 1 Min |
Cruelty Free: Yes
3.6
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 4/5
Packaging 3/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 4/5
Results 2/5
Price Per Mani £7,50
What We Like
User-friendly
Smooth & hard results
Dries fast
What We Don't Like
Chips after a week
Confusing instructions
Only 1 colour
If you're new to the world of gel nails, Sally Hansen is your go-to. This brand's introductory kit clinched top marks for user-friendliness, courtesy of its uncomplicated three-step routine and swift 30-second curing time.
Post-curing, our nails showcased a sturdy, slick finish devoid of any sticky residue. The salon-quality polish and topcoat conjured a lustrous, even sheen, barring a minor bubble. Even though it boasts up to a fortnight's durability, our nails faced some wear after an intense kitchen cleanup session. The aftermath left our nails a tad fragile but far from wrecked.
It's worth mentioning the kit brings along a single shade, with additional colors available for separate purchase. While it might not hold up for those constantly using their hands, we'd advocate for it as a worthy introduction for anyone keen on venturing into the realm of home-based UV-cured manicures.
Includes Colours: 1 |
Dry Time: 1 Min |
Cruelty Free: Yes
3.5
Our Ratings
Ease of Use 3/5
Packaging 3/5
Drying Time 5/5
Ease of Removal 3/5
Results 3/5
Price Per Mani £1,40
What We Like
Affordable
Dries quickly
Shiny finish
What We Don't Like
Chips after a week
Confusing instructions
Only 1 colour
Tight on funds? Consider giving the SensatioNail Starter Kit a whirl. Admittedly, its instructions can be a tad perplexing, so it's worth familiarizing yourself with all steps before diving in.
Though it might not be the most intuitive kit we've encountered, we believe subsequent applications should be smoother.
Quick drying times were achieved with the provided lamp, culminating in a pleasing manicure. (Pro tip: Applying finer layers of the lacquer and being patient during the process might enhance the appearance.)
Despite the brand's two-week wear time claim, we noticed chipping around the one-week mark. It might not rival the longevity of a professional job, but it surely outperforms standard polishes in endurance.
Includes Colours: 1 |
Dry Time: 1 Min |
Cruelty Free: Yes
Sassy Saints At-Home Nail Manicure Kit was the top pick... Here's why
We wanted to talk further with our investigative reporters Alison Bedford, Danielle Whitehead & Emma Knights to find out more about why she chose Sassy Saints At-Home Nail Manicure Kit as their top pick.
Alison said, "personally I started struggling financially since the start of the cost of living crisis. I suddenly had to choose between doing my nails and going out with my friends.
I started looking for salon alternatives but couldn't find anything that gave me salon worthy results
That's when I found Sassy Saints and decided to give it a try, luckily they had a 50% off sale so I even saved more money! I'm pretty sure it's still running at the moment
I received the package literally the next day and did the mani at night. The application is SUPER simple, it came with step-by-step video instructions that were super easy to follow.
And the results don't lie, it's been over 5 weeks now and my nails haven't chipped and my lashes & brows are still fully lifted!
I've been converted into a Sassy Saints At-Home Salon Lady, and I hope you will too!
Try It Risk-Free
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