Makeup Monday

Let’s talk nail laquer.

{While not technically makeup, I’d argue that nail polish falls under the head of “Beauty Products” so maybe Monday’s should be “Beauty Monday’s”, but I prefer the alliteration, okay?}

I adore having painted nails. Absolutely love it. It makes me feel like a grown-up; it makes my child-sized hands appear a little more normal (at least that’s what I tell myself). And don’t get me started on getting manicures. Those things are pure bliss.

However, I detest chipped nail polish. Hate it. I know the mags are always saying “let your nails chip a little, it looks cool” and Kate Moss or whomever is always saying perfectly lacquered nails look too perfect or something. But I have to say…I think it just looks sloppy. It looks like you don’t care, and maybe a little bit like you also are doing lines of coke in the bathroom. (Okay, maybe that’s a bit extreme.)

So, how do I marry these two feelings? A love of mani’s but intense hatred for chipped polish?

Enter the CND Shellac Manicure.

So many beautiful colors...including some with sparkle!

Ladies, this thing last for two weeks. Two. Weeks. 14 days. Guaranteed. 

Between every coat of base, color, and topcoat, your nails are “cured” in this little UV light box. Your nails are instantly dry. The manicurist gives you a hand/arm massage with lotion after painting your nails…it’s a little crazy. No more gingerly removing your credit card from your wallet; you can paw through your purse immediately after. Shellac is also available for your toes, so if you forgot to bring a pair of sandals, you can slip your feet right back into your shoes without fear of damaging your fresh pedi.

The shellac manicure will run you a little more than a regular mani (around $25), but considering it lasts for a guaranteed two weeks (or more), it comes out even.

If you live or work around Beaverton, head to Moda. Best (and most reasonably priced) shellac mani’s and pedi’s around.

Live elsewhere? Find a shellac salon near you, and read all about the science behind the glory that is shellac.