• Stay away from cheap products: It is advisable to stick to well-known brands and trusted manufacturers to avoid damage to your nails. Don’t compromise on quality: a standard product will stay for a longer time and does not chip off easily.

• Get to know your product: After going through thousands of gel nail polish reviews, we conclude that most users recommend that you should buy a product only after reading the reviews and getting to know the specifications.

• Check the base coat: Removing a gel nail polish requires a little more effort than with regular nail polish. You may have to soak your nails in acetone for up to 10 minutes or more. Some gel polishes can be very difficult to remove--the base coat of some formulations especially may require you to literally scrape off the color from your nails. A smarter way would be to read customer reviews, go through what users have to say in this regard, or consult a friend before buying a product.

• Check the curing mechanism: There are three types of gel polishes currently available on the market. Certain gel nail polishes can be cured using a UV light, while others require a LED light. The third kind does not require any light. If you are a first-timer, you should consider the advantages of each. There is almost no difference in the performance of UV or LED lights; however, LED lights are more expensive.

If you already own a light or a gel nail polish system and are just buying another color, ensure it is compatible with the light/lamp you have. If you plan to purchase a lamp after you buy the nail polish, then buy a compatible pair according to your preference.

• Own a range of colors: Although your new gel manicure can last for weeks, you may get bored with it! Buy a few interesting colors to add to your classic collection. It would be a good idea to experiment with fun, flirtatious colors. Gel polishes that change color with temperature changes are also an interesting variation.

• Decide if you want some extras: Some packs include nail prep gels, cuticle oils and other essential add-ons required for a perfect finish. They are a must-have for a salon-like finish.

Aimeli: Aimeli is a well-known manufacturer of gel nail polish. Their products deliver quality and reliable colors at an affordable price.

Gelish: They manufacture one of the best gel nail polish system currently available in the market. They offer premium quality products that are very popular amongst customers for their smooth finish.

Beauty Brags: This is another leading brand of gel nail polish. Their product does not chip off or flake easily and can look as good as new for up to two weeks.