Pretty Nails for Less than Ten

Welcome to Ten on the 10th!

Today I'm sharing a little personal pamper that costs around five dollars.   If you are one of those lucky people whose nails grow long and beautiful and you can just paint them with polish, this post may not be for you.  

My fingernails are the crummy, peeling, chipping kind.  I loved having "good" nails each time I was pregnant, but for the rest of my life they have just been pathetic. Luckily, there is a very affordable fix.

These little gems can be found with the nail polish at Target, Walmart, Walgreen's, and grocery stores.  I've been using the French Tips (Real Short) for years.  They came in handy when I was working long hours and didn't have time for regular manicures to keep up acrylic nails.

Just recently, I've ventured out and started using the "gel fantasy" version.  There are a few color options.  I hope they add some more.  Honestly, I find the color selection at stores to be pretty hit or miss.  I bought some beautiful red ones for Christmas parties, but haven't seen that shade recently. To apply them, I choose the right size faux nail from the 24 in the box, put a little of the glue on my nail, and press it on (holding for a few seconds).

That's it.  

No waiting for polish to dry or anything.  The directions do say it is better not to submerge them in water for the first hour.  If you need an excuse not to do the dishes, I suggest applying them right after dinner....

I find a set usually lasts about a week, longer if I'm on vacation and away from housework.

Hints: Size the nails to see which fit best before using glue. I like to use too little glue rather than too much, so it doesn't ooze out around the cuticle.  However, you can wipe extra away with the manicure stick (included in the package) if you do it quickly. Keep the extras in case you need to replace one. You can protect your own nails with a layer of clear nail polish, but the fake nails will not stay on as long.  This is a good option if you just want to wear them for a special occasion.  I don't bother because as I mentioned earlier, my own nails look terrible no matter what I do or don't do to them. (Funny enough, they do grow out under the protection of the fake nails, but then they break as soon as a I try to go with just real nails.) The gel nails also come with a sticky tab option.  Honestly, I haven't tried that. I have no affiliation with the maker of these products.  I'm just a happy customer. Please be sure to visit all the inspiring Ten on the 10th posts!

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