I tried OPI’s new £18 strengthener to fix my brittle nails – and I saw a difference in DAYS

Collage of two images showing unpainted nails holding OPI Repair Mode and painted nails holding OPI Nail Envy.

A GREAT manicure is the most underrated accessory a girl can invest in.

I’m a big hand-talker, so when my nails are chipped or peeling off, I immediately feel self-conscious. The problem is, without polish, I’m a chronic nail biter.

A person holds a bottle of OPI Nail Envy in a dark red shade, showcasing a matching manicure against a leafy outdoor background.
I tried OPI’s Nail Envy Strengthening Treatment Credit: Supplied

OPI Nail Envy Strengthening Treatment, £23 £18.40

And to top it off, my nails are naturally brittle, flimsy and easily broken – which means covering them up with acrylics or press-ons only makes the situation worse. 

So, I’ve become slightly obsessed with my nail care and investing in my at-home manis. 

Safe to say I’ve officially found my new holy-grail product in OPI’s new and improved iconic Nail Envy range.

Loved by pros, its vegan formula has been developed by nail scientists and is designed to strengthen and nourish damaged nails, all without compromising on colour. 

Packed with OPI’s Tri-Flex Technology, it wraps the nail in a protective liquid shield to help fight chips and splits.

The strengthener range includes six trendy new shades – I picked up the Classic sheer shade along with Tough Luv, a seriously gorgeous deep red that I’m naming now as the festive shade of the season. 

I put it to the test – and not only are my nails looking fabulous, but they already feel tougher and less likely to break. 

OPI Nail Envy Strengthener: Quickfire Q&A

How much is it? Usually, it’s £23 – admittedly expensive for a nail treatment – but at the time of writing, shoppers can pick it up for a discounted price of £18.40.

Who’s it best for? Anyone wanting to give their nails some extra TLC – or anyone who isn’t a fan of gels or acrylics and wants to invest in their at-home mani kit

What we loved: The new and improved vegan formula – I noticed a difference in just a few days, and my nails already feel so much stronger without compromising on colour. The Bond Repair serum also feels super hydrating and is great for anyone wanting to go that extra step in their nail care ritual.

What we didn’t: I found the red shade a little difficult to apply and did experience a bit of staining where I’d gone off track, so keep some remover handy for touch-ups!

Hand holding a bottle of O.P.I Nail Envy nail strengthener, showing freshly applied clear polish on natural nails.
Full results become visible after two weeks, but my nails looked healthier after a single use Credit: Supplied

OPI Nail Envy Strengthening Treatment, £23 £18.40

To see the full results, you’re supposed to apply one coat every day for two weeks – but even after a single coat, my nails looked noticeably glossier and healthier. 

The sheer shade gave me that clean, expensive-looking finish without spending hours at a salon, making it perfect for those in between days. 

It also makes a superb top coat to give your nails that extra shine boost.

I’m so impressed I want to get my hands on the entire range; the next shade on my wishlist is Bubble Bath.

Named in British Vogue as one of their nail colours of the season, the gorgeous ballet pink shade has since gone viral. 

I also adopted OPI’s Repair Mode bond-building nail serum into my nail care routine – which is perfect for anyone in need of some extra TLC.

A hand holding a bottle of OPI Repair Mode bond building nail serum.
Shoppers can currently get the Bond-Building Nail Serum for £23.20 Credit: Supplied

Repair Mode Bond-Building Nail Serum, £29 £23.20 from OPI

I applied it every day for six days, and my nails felt so much more hydrated. It’s a total lifesaver in the cooler weather.

It’s also great for anyone looking to restore their post-vacay nails back to health.

If you’re looking to invest in your nails this season, I’d seriously recommend trying it for yourself, or perhaps grab one for a friend.

You don’t need to be a beauty addict to appreciate a great polish, and it’d make a gorgeous stocking filler! 

Leave a Comment