I was lucky enough to get a free sample of the new Sleek Sticks from Essie! At first I was a little disappointed that they only sent 2 of each colour rather than a full set, but then I thought it was actually nice to get 4 different styles to try out. My sample came with A to Zebra, Stickers and Stones, Don’t Cheetah on Me and Sneek-e. I decided to try out Stickers and Stones first.

They include easy to follow instructions, and if you have ever used a nail decal before it’s nothing new.

Steps:

1. Make sure your nails are clean, peel off the decal and apply firmly to your nail
2. Use a nail file to ‘buff off’ the extra strip
3. Clean up any jagged edges that may be left
4. The final product!

I have to say that these are my least favourite nail decals. With these ones, once I filed off the excess, the edges of my nails still felt jagged. I also found it difficult to get the strip to go completely flat on my nail. It kept folding at the tip of my nail, which made it catch on everything later on! I got so frustrated I peeled it off shortly after taking these photos.

Sally Hansen has similar product, which has a lot more variety and for around the same price. I found the Sally Hanson nail strips fit the shape of my nails better, and they were much thinner. Because they were thinner, they were easier to file. I am assuming the reason the Essie strips are a bit tougher to work with is because they are thicker and better quality. I can totally see the value in this, but I don’t have long perfect nails. These decals didn’t really work for my shorter, square nails. They are great for a night out, or one day wear but they are not a long lasting option. I would not repurchase.

Have you tried out these new decals? If so, what do you think? I’d love to hear your feedback!