It wasn't too long ago that gel manicures were a luxury spa service one could only indulge in at a professional nail salon. And, while we love getting primped and pampered, we don't always have the time or the funds to partake in these bi-monthly appointments. So, what's a girl to do to keep her nails looking polished and chip-free (for more than a day or two) in the meantime? Take matters into her own hands, of course-or rather, essie's hands.

Being the beauty pioneers that they are, essie recently launched its brand-spankin' new Gel Couture Collection which boasts 42 gel-based nail polishes that dry without the use of a fancy UV lamp. Do you know what this means? That pricey, luxurious gel mani can now be created in the comfort of your own home. To fully convert you into the Gel Couture faith, we've got a step-by-step nail tutorial coating covering the full rundown, along with the perks of this long-lasting polish!

OK, we confess: Our gushing about this new gel collection is not without motive. The truth is, we're getting you all hyped up on Gel Couture with a very specific goal in mind-to gift it to you. After you read up on what makes this nail polish far from ordinary, enter for your chance to win this collection for yourself!

At first glance, you're probably thinking this is just another run-of-the-mill manicure disguising itself as something extraordinary. But this is no guise, guys. This revolutionary formula and packaging is honestly like nothing you've (or we've) seen before.

First of all, let's talk about the brush. A nail polish brush may not seem like a state-of-the-art component, but this one is. Featuring a tapered, flat design the Gel Couture swirl-stem brush better fits the natural shape of the nail and deposits color more evenly, so you're not dealing with gloppy polish that slips and slides all over your fingernails and cuticles.

Now let's move on to the formula. When you think gel nail polish, you probably picture a rock solid mani that can withstand the apocalypse unscathed and unchipped. Well, you're definitely on the right track-while we can't guarantee apocalypse-proof performance, we can guarantee a longer-lasting manicure that is as chip resistant as they come. So, that means you'll be saving a buck (or twenty) as your trips to the nail salon will be much less frequent.

This is how it's done! For up to 14 days of luxurious wear:

Cleanse Nails Thoroughly

Step 1: Start by cleansing the nail with polish remover. No base coat needed!

Apply Nail Polish

Step 2: Apply two coats of luxurious gel couture color. Allow 60 seconds to dry between coats.

Seal Gel

Step 3: Seal with gel couture top coat for flawless gel-like shine. No UV or LED lamps needed!

And while this mani can weather any storm, the removal process is pick, chip, peel and prod-free! Simply use your regular nail polish remover and it comes off in a cinch. ** OK, now that you're pumped, it's time to shower you with gel manicures! All you have to do for your chance to win this gel-infused giveaway is tell us which shade from the (1) One winner will receive: Gel Couture Collection you'd love to flaunt for two weeks straight. Drop a comment below, and be sure to enter by 8/17/2016, 11:59 PT.
For Official Rules,click here.

Good luck!

No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Residents of 50 U.S./DC only. 18 and older. Sweepstakes ends at 11:59 PM PT on 8/17.