Few beauty brands have the kind of loyal following that OPI does. What began in the early eighties as a small dental supply company in Los Angeles soon evolved into a global nail brand under co-founders George Schaeffer and nail industry legend Suzi Weiss Fischmann.
OPI’s now-famous tradition of turning nail colour into storytelling lives on through iconic shade names like Big Apple Red® and Lincoln Park After Dark®. The process is still overseen by Suzi, who continues to take part in present-day colour naming decisions.
With its meticulously developed formulas, iconic shade names, and consistent focus on professional quality, OPI has become a trusted name in salons and at home alike. Just as importantly, OPI continues to innovate while moving toward more conscious, sustainable practices.
That spirit of innovation is clear in the evolution of OPI Infinite Shine. Designed for anyone who loves the look of gel nails but prefers the ease of a traditional nail lacquer, it brings together the best of both worlds. At the heart of the system is pre-cured gel technology, which creates a film of colour made up of strong polymer chains that lock onto the nail’s surface, mimicking the performance of gel polish without the need for an LED lamp.
The result is up to 11 days of glossy, smooth wear, with impressive resistance to chips and scratches. It delivers that gel-like finish many of us look for, while still unlocking easily with regular nail polish remover. No soaking, no damage, just a straightforward return to bare nails!
The three-step system is what really makes the difference. Its gel-like base coat grips the nail to create a strong foundation for colour. The OPI lacquer itself is intensely pigmented, offering rich, even coverage while remaining stain resistant when used as part of the full system. The gel-like top coat then seals everything in, adding a plump, high shine finish and an extra layer of protection.
Smooth, professional application is easy. The pro wide brush is designed to hug the nail, making it easier to achieve smooth, even coverage with minimal effort. It’s a small detail, but one that really counts.
There is also a meaningful shift in formulation. Both Infinite Shine and OPI GelColor are 100 percent vegan and cruelty free, and made with naturally derived ingredients. It is a move that reflects a growing demand for beauty that performs well while being more mindful.
How to apply Infinite Shine Gel-like Lacquer
Before you get started, you’ll need the following products:
OPI Infinite Shine Gel-like Base Coat
OPI Infinite Shine Gel-like Lacquer
OPI Infinite Shine Gel-like Top Coat
OPI Pro Spa Nail and Cuticle Oil
Now, for the steps…
Step 1
Start with properly prepped nails, and apply 1 thin coat of OPI Infinite Shine Gel-like Base Coat. Seal the edge of the nail before covering the entire nail surface without flooding the cuticle area. Let dry 1-2 minutes.
Step 2
With your Infinite Shine shade of choice, apply 1 thin layer to each nail, sealing the edge of each nail before covering the nail surface without flooding the cuticle area. Let dry for 1-2 minutes. Pro Tip: It’s best to apply lacquer by sealing the edge of the nail first and starting in the centre of the nail before working your way to the sides of the nail. Once the nails are dry, apply a second coat to ensure full coverage. Allow nails to dry for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 3
Finish the mani with 1 thin layer of Infinite Shine Gel-like Top Coat to achieve a gel-like look and unbeatable shine. Your Infinite Shine manicure will dry to the touch in 5 minutes, and dry completely within 20. OPI Infinite Shine Gel-like Top Coat provides a durable finish with a jaw-dropping, mirror-like shine. Finish by massaging OPI Pro Spa Nail and Cuticle Oil to the nails once fully dry.
For those who want long-lasting shine without the commitment of a salon gel service, Infinite Shine offers a smart, modern solution. It combines durability, ease, and a high gloss finish in a way that feels both practical and polished. And unlocking it has never been easier!
