I was as excited as everyone to buy this kit, but each time the results are disappointing... It all goes wrong after the top coat. I follow the instructions precisely and cover the tip of the nail perfectly, only using Essence products. After curing the nails under the lamp, the top layer (and sometime the base layer) shrinks considerably leaving unaesthetic edges. Sometimes, small bits of the top layer even come off as I clean the residue with the damp cleanser pad. I've tried it over and over, I even bought another top coat (thinking that might be the issue) - the polka dots effect coat - but the same! It shrinks quite a bit. I'd upload pictures but I'm not sure how, as I am new here. I wish I could be as excited about it as most seem to be, but what am I doing wrong if anything? Or is this the best I can get of it? Other customers seem to get better results...

Gel nails at home by Essence is easy to use. The process is easy - nail treatment, peel off coat, and you can use any nail polish (normal) over that with the gel top coat to end off with. All of the items needed can be bought at Dis-Chem - they do go quite quickly so phone and enquire before hand. You can buy the starter pack and UV light conveniently in store. The total pack is less than R600. What a steal! Although the peel off coat does shrink inward, it did not make the removal any harder. Easy to use, effective.