Barielle Nail Rebuilding Protein and Ultra Speed Dry Manicure Extender Review

Along with a number of polishes (most of which I have already shown you), Barielle was kind enough to send me a bottle of their Nail Rebuilding Protein and Ultra Speed Dry Manicure Extender to test out. While I love trying new polishes and showing those on the blog, reviewing a a base/top coat is new territory for me. I think I have finally tried them enough times to be able to tell you what I think...

Barielle Nail Building Protein
This product is meant to be used on its own for the first 3 weeks to allow nails to breathe while it builds up and fortifies damaged layers. After that, it is to be used as a base coat for any manicure. I couldn't imagine 3 weeks without a full manicure, so I have been using it exclusively as a base coat for a few weeks. My nails do feel stronger and seem to be splitting/breaking less, but I come from a scientific background which makes it hard for me to say this was indeed what caused the change. What I can say is that I had a corner of a nail that was starting to peel and knowing my nails would not last until the end of the day. I used the Nail Rebuilding Protein with every manicure change (daily to every other day) and the split never grew. It really helped save the nail until I was ready to file them all down. So... I love it and have been using it a lot. Also, I should mention that it has excellent dry time which is always great in a base coat. You can see by the level in the bottle that I made a significant dent in it in just a few weeks.

Barielle Ultra Speed Dry Manicure Extender
The package insert for this product states that for best results, allow polish to dry for 2 minutes before applying top coat. After that, apply the top coat and wait about 60 seconds before the nails are ready to go. I found that it does take about 60 seconds before the top sets, but the manicure can still be easily dented after that, so I don't think you would be ready to go. It is not as quick drying as other top coats that I have used, so this would not be the first one I reach for when I need something quick. I have, however, been using this top coat when I'm not in a hurry since I like that it dries very glossy and shiny, it does not shrink (yay!), and it does not bubble as much for me. Other quick drying top coats are much thicker and I think bubble because of that. This top coat is not thick at all, it is more the consistency of regular polish. It applies very smooth. It is also said to extend the life of the manicure and prevent light colors from yellowing and dark colors from fading, but my manicures don't live long enough to test that theory...

Both products are free from Formaldehyde, DBP and Toluene!

Just as a fun side note, the Barielle Nail Strengthener Cream (which I have not tried yet), was originally created to condition hooves of million dollar thoroughbred racehorses... maybe that explains the horse logo. I have been wondering for so long :)

Have you tried either of these products before? I'd love to know what you think!

Thanks for looking!
Anutka :)

** These polishes were provided to me for review by the manufacturer or their PR. **

** For more information please see the disclosure policy **