OPI Radiance + Neon Dots

The mid-west has some wonky weather right now. We've had random April blizzards and just ridiculous temperatures. Finally, we're supposed to hit 80 degrees this Sunday so I thought a shiny neon manicure was in order!

OPI DS Radiance

Spoiled Permission to Proceed
Spoiled Did I Dye it Too Blonde
Spoiled Tip your Waitress
And a random sally beauty supply neon orange

Glitter Bomb

This glitter bomb is so ridiculous, my camera didn't want to register that it exists. I used OPI I lily love you, Sinful Colors Hottie, NOPI Rainbow in the S-kylie and this pink sinful colors that looks like Hottie, but is pink and I don't have the name for.

I. Love. It. My camera does it no justice, in person it is so sparkly and amazing. It color shifts from blue to purple to orange depending on the light. It's very galactic looking.

Sparkly polka dots

Base is OPI ds radiance, dots are zoya zuza and charla, and Essie trophy wife!

JELLY SPAMSPAMSPAM

I love jellies and I love being hit with multiple photos of jellies. There's just something about their squishy texture and shiny-finish that makes me gush whenever I wear one. The OPI Texas jellies are amazing. I used to have Houston, We Have a Purple - but I gave it away! I just didn't like that shade of purple on me.

All of these photos are three coats. As you can see, there really is no visible nail line at that point. With two coats you have a bit of VNL but with the third it disappears. At least on me! All these colors are incredibly saturated and beautiful. If you do not own them, you need to.

Too Hot Pink to Hold' Em
Appropriate name - it's a bright pink fuschia jelly. It's very girly, very in your face, and of course squishy.

Big Hair..Big Nails.
The one that made me fall in love with jellies! It's a pink-red. In person it has more pink tint to it than red. I wish this was a true red jelly.

Ya'll Come Back, Ya Hear?
My new favorite. This is very orange, hello citrus. It's just amazing. It's perfect for summer and I cannot believe I hadn't pulled it out of my collection until yesterday.

 

That's it for the jelly fun. I wish I had more to show you! I have OPI my pointe exactly but that one is such a pain to apply. I'm impatient so every time I try, I get bald spots and it pools by my cuticle. 

OPI DS Reserve

Another fairly old swatch - OPI DS Reserve. I took this the same day as yesterday's Radiance. Reserve is a light pink shade with really pretty holo glitter throughout. It's subtle but very stunning. This is two coats.

OPI Ds Radiance

OPI DS Radiance looks like liquid silver. It's awesome and applies easily in one coat, it looks amazing in two. It's actually fairly easy to remove, as well. It's one of those shades that seems to show every flaw in my nail, though. This is a really old swatch but I have nothing else to post today! Eek.

3 Free and what it Means for You

Recently it came to light that a few salon brand nail polishes claiming to be "3 free" were tested for toxins - and ended up not being as "3 free" as they claimed. This concerned a lot of lacquer-heads and lead to a few big companies reminding everyone of their firm "3 free" stance.

Why is everyone so concerned and what does this mean for you? Let's break down what "3 free" means:

"3 Free", sometimes known as "big 3 free" means the cosmetic in questions does NOT contain:

-formaldehyde
-toluene
-dibutyl phthalate (DBP)

Some companies have also removed formaldehyde resin and camphor. You will see those polishes described as "5 free". You can find this description on the polish, the packaging, or the website for the brand.

What's wrong with these chemicals? Let's break it down.

I'm not a scientist, I'm not speaking these things as 100% facts. I've always had a concern for the chemicals we're exposed to on a daily basis so these are the facts I remember from years of sporadic research. Can I be wrong? Maybe. Is it important to remain aware of what you put on and in your body? Most definitely.


Formaldehyde:
Formaldehyde is a colorless gas and a known carcinogen. A carcinogen is defined as a chemical or substance known to cause cancer. Side effects of formaldehyde exposure include irritated eyes, nasal passages, and upper respiratory problems. Children and pregnant women are highly recommended to avoid this chemical. Formaldehyde is both naturally occurring and man made - found in smoke, car exhaust, building materials like glue, and beauty products like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, nail polish, and deodorant. On a nail note, after consistent use it can break down your nail enamel causing brittle nails.

Some people say formaldehyde is 100% in nail lacquer. Others say it isn't possible because it's a gas and you'll never see it listed as an ingredient other than in certain nail hardeners. Perhaps that's where formaldehyde resin comes in to play - but if this is the case then I'm not sure why companies are jumping on the "formaldehyde free" bandwagon...public hysteria? Mob mentality? I'm not a scientist nor am I psychologist.

Why is formaldehyde added to cosmetics?

In most cases the formaldehyde is used to preserve the product and prevent the cosmetic from breeding bacteria after each use.

Toluene
Toluene is a colorless, flammable chemical found in coal tar and petroleum and smells like paint thinner. It can affect the reproductive system, possibly cause cancer, and is a skin and eye irritant much like formaldehyde. It's usually described as a "nervous system toxin".

You could also see toluene listed as phenylmethane, methylbenzene, or toluol.

Why do companies use toluene in nail lacquer?

It's used to help nail polish go on smooth and evenly to the nail. It's used to help suspend color.


Dibutyl Phtalate (DBP)
DBP is known to cause birth defects and increase the risk of allergies.

Why is DBP used in nail lacquer?

DBP acts as a binder to improve the durability of your nail lacquer. It helps keep the formula from becoming too watery, keeps it flexible and causes it to dry shiny

Formaldehyde resin/tosylamide
With formaldehyde as a base, it acts to keep your nail polish flexible and the nail hard. My guess is this is what companies and people are referring to when they imply formaldehyde is in their cosmetics - but I will reiterate that I am not a genius or well versed on these subjects at all. Just passionate.

Camphor
Camphor can irritate your eyes, cause gastrointestinal issues, and headaches.

What does it do?
Camphor helps keep the nail lacquer flexible.

Final thoughts?

It's best to do the research on products you use daily and come to your own conclusions. Some people are not concerned by these chemicals and additives while others avoid them at all costs and are outraged they're allowed in our cosmetics and cleaning products. As it stands right now, nothing is truly definitive - but I do know these chemicals smell bad, make me feel sick, and a lot of European countries have outright banned them.

If you're concerned about the safety of the cosmetics and products you use, look their ratings up here at ewg.org.

What nail lacquers are "3 free"?

Zoya, OPI,  and Butter London off the top of my head are "3 free". There are more, just read your labels. :)

OPI It's my Year

I found this in a small-time jewelry store in an equally as small town. They had Swimsuit Nailed It! and Crown me Already from the Miss Universe collection. Those didn't catch my eye as much as It's my Year.



This color is so gorgeous and shiny. It's this a really light pink-purple with TONS of gold shimmer. My camera could barely capture how amazing this color is. I love it so much. It applies relatively sheer. This is three coats. The formula is amazing and easy to manage. You'll definitely want to enlarge this photo to see the true beauty that lies within this color.

OPI Minnie Mouse and Spiderman Collections Press Releases

OPI’s All Ears!

OPI Announces New Limited Edition Minnie Mouse-Inspired, Nail Lacquers

            OPI launches Vintage Minnie Mouse, including four limited edition nail lacquers, for summer. Created in honor of Disney’s beloved character, the colors encapsulate Minnie Mouse’s irresistible charm in playful, pretty shades of pink and red. 

 “OPI is so excited to collaborate with Disney and draw inspiration from one of the world’s most popular characters,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director.  “This collection brings together the expertise of OPI and the iconic style of Minnie Mouse to inspire the distinct palette of vibrant, feminine shades for summer Nails will pop against summer skin in these classic, saturated hues – holding their own alongside the bold prints of the season.”

The line features a pink crème lacquer, one frosted red shade, a shimmery fuchsia, and a heart glitter confetti:

Nothin’ Mousie ‘bout It
Don’t squeak it – SHOUT IT! This confetti light pink is tops!



I’m All Ears
Tell me how much you love this magenta shimmer.



If You Moust You Moust

 

You gotta pink what you gotta pink.

The Color of Minnie
You had this little mouse at “red.”

As with all OPI nail lacquers, Vintage Minnie Mouse by OPI contains no DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde, and features OPI’s exclusive ProWide^™ Brush for the ultimate in application.

This limited edition promotion will be available beginning June 2012 at professional salons, including Beauty Brands, Beauty First, Chatters, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Pure Beauty, Regis, Trade Secret, and ULTA, for  $8.50 ($9.95 CAN) suggested retail for each Nail Lacquer.

For more information, please call 800-341-9999 or visit www.opi.com. Follow OPI on Twitter @OPI_PRODUCTS and become a Facebook fan!

In“Spider”ed Shades!

OPI Celebrates Sony Pictures’ “The Amazing Spider-Man” with Limited Edition Nail Lacquers

            OPI announces the launch of six limited edition nail lacquers and a new Shatter, inspired by Sony Pictures’ The Amazing Spider-Man.  With an all-star cast including Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone, this highly-anticipated series reboot opens in theaters nationwide in 3D on July 3, 2012.  

 “OPI is so excited to work with Sony Pictures in welcoming Spider-Man back on the big screen,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director.  “This film explores a new chapter in the Spider-Man legacy that’s going to be both dark and sexy. The colors created for this promotion capture the movie’s exciting atmosphere, with standout shades like the deep shimmering blue Into the Night and the metallic golden green Just Spotted the Lizard.”

The film villain’s reptilian look can be replicated with a high-fashion twist by using the new deep green shimmer Shatter coat.  Shatter the Scales is inspired by graffiti art and works when painted over any dry OPI hue. Adding top coat takes Shatter the Scales from matte to glossy in seconds.

The line features six nail lacquers in addition to Shatter the Scales, ranging from white, coral and pink to mood-setting hues of blue, nickel and yellow-green:

                                                                

Your Web or Mine?
The perfect pink for sticky situations.



Into the Night
This perfect midnight blue was made for prowling.

Call Me Gwen-ever
Girlfriend, be sure to pick up when this urgent coral calls.



Just Spotted the Lizard
Be seen in this reptilian yellow-green.

My Boyfriend Scales Walls
Climb new heights with this cityscape white.

Number One Nemesis
Show your metal in this sparkling nickel.


Shatter the Scales

As with all OPI nail lacquers, these shades inspired by The Amazing Spider-Man contain no DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde, and feature OPI’s exclusive ProWide^™ Brush for the ultimate in application.

This limited edition promotion will be available beginning May 2012 at Professional Salons, including Beauty Brands, Beauty First, Chatters, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Pure Beauty, Regis, Trade Secret, and ULTA, for  $8.50 ($9.95 CAN) suggested retail for each Nail Lacquer.

For more information, please call 800-341-9999 or visit www.opi.com. Follow OPI on Twitter @OPI_PRODUCTS and become a Facebook fan!

OPI DS Extravagance

I didn't know much about the OPI DS line until a few months ago when my interest in holos peaked. I just admired them online, with little interest in buying any.

About a month ago I wandered into this small town jewelry store and saw they sold OPI in the back. They had the Holland collection (not interested) and the Miss Universe collection (oh!), and three shelves of various OPIs. I saw in a row all by themselves DS Reserve, DS Radiance, and DS Extravagance. I bought a few of each and went back to my hotel room, drooling and cackling. DS Extravagance is my favorite (not a fan of the other two, just not my style but gorgeous in their own right!).

DS Extravagance is a beautiful, plum-wine one-coater. It's packed with this..gorgeous holo magic that just radiates out of the bottle. You can't wear this polish on a cloudy day, you'd be doing it a great disservice.

I'll let the photos do the talking:

Later today I will be publishing my blog sale, with DS Reserve and Radiance, along with a few other polishes. I will post on my facebook page when I have it completed. Parting is such sweet sorrow, but I'm in the market for a new tattoo. :)

Glitter

Here is LA Girl Glitter "Purge" over Midori. It's a fun, really opaque glitter. Three coats and I think you would have full coverage.

And this is OPI Don't Mess with OPI. A very beautiful sage-green creme. No application problems, it's a beautiful, must have green!

Green Ombre

Here is a green ombre mani I did this morning.

Pointer:Revlon Jaded
Middle: Essie Navigate Her
Ring: China Glaze GaGa for Green
Pinky: OPI don't mess with OPI

All topped with Seche Vite

St. Patrick's Day Mani

Here is my St. Patrick's Day Mani. That is supposed to be a rubber duck, haha. I submitted this to the Nouveau Cheap  blog because she requested for St. Patrick's day manis.

The middle finger is Sinful Colors green ocean, a very colorful, green-blue flakie that comes out during the month of March. I'm not a huge fan of flakies, but I thought everyone might be interested in seeing this one. It retails for 1.99 and you can find it at Walgreen's. I used two coats.

The colors I used are....

Spoiled: Permission to Proceed
Zoya: Pippa
Wet n Wild: Black Creme
Spoiled: Correction Tape
OPI: A Good Man-Darin is Hard to Find
Sinful Colors: Green Ocean
China Glaze: Ga Ga for Green
L.A. Girl Glitter Addict: Synergy

I had not used Spoiled Permission to Proceed until I did this mani. To my surprise, it's a beautiful jelly, making the color very wearable. I love jellys, they're my favorite finish. Half the time, if you tell me a polish is a jelly I will buy it before I decide I like the color or not. It's the reason I bought Velvet Lounge by Megan Miller, and I rarely ever wear that color.

Here's a swatch of just Permission to Proceed. This is two coats. It definitely needs three or four for full opacity. Jellys are like that, but they're totally worth it. I only did two coats of this because I was planning nail art on top. Honestly, I have yet to meet a jelly I don't like.

OH SNAP I HAVE AN IDEA NOW!!

Nail Haul

I was out of town for a week and when I came home I had a lot of amazing nail mail!



Zoya Charla, China Glaze Blue Iguana (from a swap), Megan Miller Velvet Lounge & Coral Bliss (bloom.com order), Petal Jam, and Sephora by OPI Urban Ballerina (swap)

I'm still waiting on my Dollish Pollish order and my Ninja Polish order!

Isn't Charla gorgeous?

Nail Art Dots

I love polka dots. If it has polka dots on it I will more than likely purchase it. I'm just a pattern type of person - damask, stripes, dots, houndstooth. I love them all. I tried to make my nail look like candy, but..I think I might've been better off using white as a base. Next time!

OPI+Jordana

This is a simple mani I did the other day. I wasn't a huge fan of it but I kept it on because I had to run some errands. I used Orly bonder as a base coat and Seche Vite as my top coat. I love that combination! I also get a super shiny, long lasting mani.



I used OPI Gouda Gouda Two Shoes for the base color, and Jordana Copper Blaze for the tips. I love copper blaze, but I am not really a fan of gouda gouda two shoes. I think it just needs to grow on me.

Heart Nail Art

Just a quick post today. I found TWO MORE bottles of whimsical! So, that's awesome. I think I'll save one for a giveaway. I also bought pink and turquoise hair dye because I feel boring. Every spring I get the itch to do something with my hair. Last year I chopped it off. NEVER AGAIN.

Anyway. Here's my most loved heart mani. I love this to pieces, though some of the hearts I flubbed. My better half says they look like butterflies. Ehhh.

I used Essie Sand Tropez as a base and OPI Fly & You're a pisa-work, and Wet n Wild "On a trip" for the hearts. I used a bobby pin as my dotting tool, because sometimes I like to channel McGuyver and save money.

OPI+Zoya

For some reason my better half is obsessed with orange nail polish. When he does get involved in picking colors for me to wear or buy, he always gravitates towards bright neon shades or anything orange. This is two coats of 'a good man-darin is hard to find' by OPI with two coats of Zoya OC Cooler layered on top.

I love both of these colors on their own. They're beautiful, saturated oranges - even though they both take a few coats to get that way. If you have the patience for the drying time with all those layers, you'll have one fun, bright an in your face mani.

Sorry it's so messy, I did this while my daughter was taking a bath so precision was a bit of an afterthought.

This is OC Cooler by itself. I took this awhile ago before I even considered starting a blog, so trying to be neat and having even nails didn't really occur to me. This is three coats of only OC Cooler. I love the subtle gold flecks of glitter in there, it really makes this polish stand out on its own. This is definitely an underrated Zoya! OC Cooler can easily be worn alone. It's quite opaque with a first coat. I also own SOHO Punch from this collection (glamcicles).