THERE'S really nothing like a fresh coat of nail polish to finish off a look, whether it’s to seal that sophisticated outfit or add a pop of color if you are not much for wearing brights on the face. Here’s some news when it comes to nail polish.
Essie’s 1,000th shade
Yes, you read that right—1,000 shades of nail polish by this iconic brand. According to Pop Sugar, lucky number 1,000 is a “scandalous yellow citron with shimmering pearl” called Aim to Misbehave. It comes with a special cap with 1,000 printed in gold and will be available online in May. I am not a die hard Essie fan, but I do love that they have a nail polish shade available for every possible occasion, outfit or mood! One of my favorite shades by the brand is a pretty pastel blue called Meet the Parents from a past wedding collection that came in a set of four different mini polishes. For those who are always on the lookout for that perfect shade, Essie will have it whatever your skin tone may be.
Barielle nail hardener
I initially bought this to protect my nails from turning yellow. Used as a base coat and a top coat, this not only helps prevent nails from yellowing, but also locks in polish color. I have tried it with different nail polishes and it really does prevent chipping for a week—a great improvement considering I usually start to chip after the third day! You can purchase this little miracle worker from Piandre Salon at Oakridge Business Park.
Affordable quality
Essie and Barielle are both admittedly on the pricey side. For about a quarter of the price, I enjoy the nail polishes that The Face Shop comes out with. They have everything from subtle shades to jewel tones and apply smoothly, even for those like me with an unsteady hand with nail polish. The brand also has a complete range of base coats and top coats available.
Salon on the go
When I only have time for a quick manicure and pedicure, I visit Skinzone Skincare with Salon and Spa in Cebu IT Park. They can do the job fast and send me on my way in less than an hour, and the location is very convenient. I would recommend calling ahead for an appointment, though. The salon is often busy because it’s the only one located in Cebu IT Park, and affordable too at only P149 for a manicure and pedicure.
Gel nails
To keep nails looking good for longer, try a gel nail treatment, which can last up to two weeks. In my experience, it pretty much won’t come off until you take it off. Skin First offers gel nail treatments at its branch in Green Orkid, Escario St., Cebu City at P450 for the manicure and P500 for the pedicure. Popular colors include Marshmallow (white), Matador (red) and Linen (skin tone), but there are over 30 shades to choose to your fancy.