Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover Review: 1-Second Removal Myth Busted?

This review delves into the efficacy of Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover, a product boasting a groundbreaking one-second removal claim. Intrigued by this promise of effortless nail polish removal, I put the remover to the test using both a glitter and a regular nail polish from Nature Rubric. My experiment aimed to determine if the product lived up to its ambitious marketing, providing a truly quick and convenient solution, or if the "magic" was merely a clever marketing ploy. The review explores the process of removal, highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the product, including its scent and overall effectiveness.The testing process involved applying two distinct nail polishes – a nude shade and a glitter polish – to assess the remover's capabilities on varying polish types. This allowed for a thorough evaluation of its performance, revealing the realities of its claimed one-second removal time. The review concludes with an overall assessment of the Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover's effectiveness, comparing it to alternative nail polish removers currently available in the market. It explores whether the convenience of the product outweighs its limitations, and ultimately offers a recommendation based on the findings.

Read more: 7 Best Nail Polish Remover Pens (2024 Review)

Initial Impressions and Unboxing

I recently purchased the Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover, intrigued by its claim of removing nail polish in a single second. The packaging was sleek and attractive, promising a quick and easy solution to nail polish removal. I also bought two new nail polishes from Nature Rubric, a nude shade and a glittery one, to test the remover's capabilities.

Close-up of the Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover bottle.
Close-up of the Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover bottle.

My first impression was that the remover had a strong, somewhat pungent smell. This was a bit of a concern, as I am sensitive to strong chemical scents.

The Nature Rubric nail polishes.
The Nature Rubric nail polishes.

Testing the Remover on Glitter Polish

I started by testing the remover on the glitter nail polish. The instructions indicated a simple dipping action. However, contrary to its claim, the glitter polish did not come off in one second. It required significantly more time and effort. The remover felt cold on my nails.

The reviewer applying the nail polish remover to a glittery nail.
The reviewer applying the nail polish remover to a glittery nail.

Even after prolonged soaking, the fine glitter particles proved stubbornly resistant to removal. I had to repeatedly dip and twist my finger to achieve even partial removal.

The reviewer struggling to remove the glitter nail polish.
The reviewer struggling to remove the glitter nail polish.

The process produced a large amount of dark, discolored liquid, further underscoring the difficulty in completely removing the glitter polish.

Testing the Remover on Regular Polish

Next, I tried the remover on a regular, non-glitter nail polish. The removal process was marginally easier than with the glitter polish, but it still wasn't the instantaneous removal promised. It required more time and effort than a typical remover.

The reviewer testing the remover on a regular nail polish.
The reviewer testing the remover on a regular nail polish.

While the color did eventually come off, it required persistent twisting and dipping. The process wasn’t as effortless as the product advertised.

Final Verdict and Comparison

Overall, the Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover fell short of its one-second claim. While it eventually removed both glitter and regular nail polish, the process was significantly longer and more laborious than expected. The strong odor was also a drawback.

Close-up of partially removed nail polish.
Close-up of partially removed nail polish.

Compared to other removers, this one is convenient in that it doesn't require cotton pads. However, its effectiveness, especially on glitter polishes, is questionable.

The reviewer comparing the Bourjois remover to another brand.
The reviewer comparing the Bourjois remover to another brand.

For those seeking a quick and effortless removal experience, I would not recommend this product. Alternatives that are more effective and less harsh-smelling are readily available.