YSW tries | OPI’s xPRESS/ON artificial nail kit

I love painting my nails different colours. It’s all about vibrant or pastel shades for spring and summer then a range of reds as the darker nights creep in.

Unfortunately, though, my lifestyle – mum of three little ones, including toddler twins – means that my perfect paintwork is inevitably chipped within 12 hours.

I’ve not worn artificial nails since my teens but once I thought about it, couldn’t believe I hadn’t considered it to avoid the scenario described above.

So, I was pretty delighted to get press-on nails from OPI in the post, especially as the ‘bubble bath’ shade fit my ‘summer pastels’ brief.

The pack (which is made from 94% recycled materials) includes nail glue, a cuticle stick, a dual nail file and buffer, an OPI prep pad and 30 pretty nails in a range of sizes so you can find the combo for you.

Instructions are pretty simple and shown on the reverse. First up, fit.

I spread all of the nails out, found those that fitted best then laid them out (in pairs – remember you’ll need two of each)!

Next, shape. It was the first time in a long time I’d made an effort to tidy my nails before applying something and it felt good.

Third step – prep, which meant wiping each nail with the prep pad. Nice and easy.

Last step, glue. I did, once or twice, get a little bit stuck! But it was quickly resolved and I’m confident that with practice that would stop happening.

All in all, it took about 15 minutes and the nails felt instantly secure – no waiting around for them to set. Since then it’s been much the same.

They’ve remained fully intact and I’ve not once felt like they were starting to loosen. But if they did, I know I’ve got my handy tube of glue to reapply ASAP. 

They look great on; I love the soft, subtle colour and although they’re quite a bit longer than my natural nails, they don’t look too long or overly showy. They simply make my hands look and feel nicer, which is exactly what I wanted.

OPI promises 14 days of wear and I’m delighted to report that it’s day seven and they’re still going strong. Beats my home nail painting situation for sure, and the kit is something I’d certainly recommend for a wedding.

Apply them a few days in advance and you’ll know you’ve ticked the box in plenty time but will still get wear out of them post-wedding. Mini-moon, anyone? Alternatively, stick them on the night before the big day and you can enjoy them on your two-week honeymoon too!

One more thing – the nails are reusable so provide excellent value for money if you apply them again and again. We like!