Category: Nail Care

Perfect Your At-Home Mani and Pedi With Nutra Nail

I do home manicures and pedicures all of the time.  I usually go to the salon just once a year in the spring to get a professional pedi, then I take care of my feet all year long.  And I always do my own manicures?  What’s the trick? The right tools, LOTS of different shade of polish and products that keep my nails looking better for longer.

Two of my biggest nail challenges are wak/brittle nails and smudged polish. Which is precisely why Nutra Nail, the nail treatment company with over a half a century of nail care know-how, comes to the rescue with two new innovative products with big pay off.

Flex-Shield Nail Hardener —  When striving for healthy, beautiful nails, the first thing that comes to mind is strength so you can grow your nails exactly how you like them. Weak dry, brittle, peeling nails never look attractive, however, using the right nail care remedies can help you to achieve a beautiful set of ten. Since we only get one time to make a first-impression, healthy, strong nails are just as important as the rest of our appearance. To combat this common beauty predicament, and ensure the strongest nails possible, Nutra Nail® developed the new Flex-Shield Nail Hardener.

This innovative formula coats nails with a super-hard, yet flexible and invisible shield to reinforce nails and help prevent breaking, tearing and peeling. Patented technology keeps the shield flexible to better absorb daily abuse to the nails, making it chip resistant and longer lasting. And if this must-have product wasn’t remarkable enough, Flex-Shield Nail Hardener can be used as both a base coat and over colored polish as a top coat.

What I think:  I really like this product.  I use it as a base and top coat when I polish my nails and I swear my polish lasts longer without chipping!  I also use it when I am not wearing polish as it protects my nails and gives them a nice sheen. 

Instant Smudge Repair — How many times have you left the nail salon, reached for your wallet, keys, or coat and accidentally smudged your nails?  Or even worse, spent time doing your nails at home, thought they were dry, but wound up with a ding, ping or smudge? And let’s not forget going to bed with presumably dry nails only to wake up with those infamous bed sheet marks. After investing time and money on a professional manicure, or prioritizing your schedule to polish your nails at home, there really is nothing worse! 
 
Introducing the best “why-didn’t-I-think-of-that?” beauty product to hit retail in years:  Nutra Nail® Instant Smudge Repair.  This miracle formula literally brushes away smudged, nicked, smeared, or dented polish in a snap. Just brush over the manicure mishap and instantly restore polish to a smooth, shiny finish without removal or reapplication of polish. 

What I think:  I have found that this works really well on small smudges.  Really big ones need to be removed and re-polished, but the smaller smudges can be smoothed out. Very handy to have around! 

Nutra Nail® Instant Smudge Repair is $3.29 and is available at Walmart, CVS and other national drugstore chains; Flex-Shield Nail Hardener is $4.98 and is available at Walmart and other national drugstore chains. Visit www.nutranail.com to learn more.

Borghese Rapido Fast Dry Nail Lacquer collection!

Borghese Rapido Fast Dry Nail Lacquer collection!

The Borghese Rapido Fast Dry Nail Lacquer ($8.00 USD) collection is a quick-drying formula that is available in long-lasting colors. Borghese invites you to discover the new Rapido Fast Dry Lacquer collection in bold brights and chic Italian neutrals. Evoking all the vivid colors of a garden in bloom, and the sophisticated hues of city style, Borghese’s new nail lacquers complement every wardrobe.

These long-wearing, nail-strengthening lacquers contain Borghese’s exclusive Aqua di Vita complex to help restore moisture and balance, while Micronized Gemstones add strength and brilliance. Each shade comes with a special Duale Curve Tip Brush custom designed to hug the shape of your nail for smooth, flawless application that lasts up to seven days. The rich, saturated hues are free of DBP’s, Toluene and added Formaldehyde. 

The Borghese Rapido Fast Dry Lacquer Collection includes 12 shades ranging from mocha to violet to silver. 

What I think: Like the claim, these polishes dry very fast, even the second or third coat. And you will need more than one coat since it applies thin. But after a few coats, the shade is very true and pretty.  It chips after a couple of days, but I just apply another coat or two to get me through the week! Well worth the $8.

You can purchase at drugstores nationwide or www.ulta.com. Enjoy!

Perfect your Manicure With CND and Jason Wu

CND has the perfect product to get your hands and feet looking sexy this spring. Fashion designer Jason Wu is collaborating with runway manicure leader CND to introduce a limited edition Jason Wu Collection ($47.00 USD) that honors iconic women through wearable, timeless shades. The set will come with 4 Colours and 1 Effect that can be layered to achieve the designer’s effortless yet elegant nail styles.

“Every season I play with different ways of using color in my collection, so it was a natural choice to collaborate with CND on a capsule of nail colors that reflects my aesthetics. Included in the set is my signature gray color,” says Jason Wu.

The Shades Are:

Miss Wu – Jason’s signature limestone, warm gray that dries matte with subtle chrome sheen, in perfect harmony of masculinity and femininity

Brigitte – voluptuous warm pink that perfectly channels 50’s screen siren

Sophia – gorgeous mushroom taupe

Veronica – highlights the evolution of decadence with a blue-based, oxblood red

Anna Effect – layered over any of the four Colours provides a tweed finish via microscopic fibrous pieces that create cool, subtle texture

These colors are extremely classy and perfect for any outfit. The effect is interesting, but I like the polishes with out the effect. They are creamy and very opaque — you only need two coats.

SpaPedicure™ Marine Salt Scrub ($43.50 US 18 oz) — Physically exfoliates dead skin cells with minerals and sea salts and deeply conditions and softens skin with sunflower oil and vitamin E. The scrub leaves skin with a soft, luminous glow and does not leave a greasy residue. It contains mineral and Dead Sea Salt – provides effective yet gentle exfoliation and helps relieve inflammation when dissolved in water.

I used the scrub on my feet, legs and other rough spots like my elbows. It is extremely gentle but smooths skin and imparts great glow! It’s a perfect prep for the Jason Wu kit.

Visit www.cnd.com to learn more and purchase.

China Glaze Crackle — The Hot New Nail Trend de Jour!

China Glaze Crackle

Looking for the hot new nail trend for 2011? Two-toned nails with a “crackled” top coat, is the it thing right now.  And you can do it yourself with China Glaze Crackle polish (8.00 USD)! China Glaze brings a whole new level to the game with “Crackle” polish! Create endless edgy looks and make a statement with fun, fearless, color. Everyone has asked for it, and now China Glaze is giving it to them! The six different Crackle colors include:
 
Lightning Bolt – White Crackle
Black Mesh – Black Crackle
Broken Hearted – Pink Crackle
Cracked Concrete – Grey Crackle
Fault Line – Purple Crackle
Crushed Candy – Teal Crackle
 
An innovative technology allows you to play with a wide array of color combinations and achieve an edgy, new wave look. This unique formula was developed to give your nails a “crackled” design over traditional nail color. Contrasting colors are used one over another to achieve a deconstructed shatter look that takes place right before your eyes. Instant art for your nails!
 
How do you do it? It’s easy! Apply your favorite China Glaze glitter, shimmer or crème. Depending on the color you are using, apply either one or two coats for full coverage. When the colored enamel is dry, brush on a thin layer of the Crackle color. Allow the Crackle to work its magic during dry time. After approximately 5 minutes when the crackled design has completely formed, apply a top coat to seal the design for prolonged wear.

I applied China Glaze Re-Fresh Mint (a soft mint green from the Up and Away collection), let it dry completely, and applied Cracked Concrete over it. It works almost like magic as it shatters apart right before your eyes! Once that dried, I applied a top coat to seal the look. It lasted almost a week! Remember to apply a thin coat so it cracks apart easier. This is a really cool look, not too office friendly (unless you work at a casual office like I do), but perfect for night out! 
 
China Glaze is free of DBP, toluene, and added formaldehyde.
 
China Glaze nail lacquers are available through salons and professional beauty supply stores nationwide. For more information, visit: www.chinaglaze.com or follow China Glaze on Twitter: http://twitter.com/ChinaGlaze

Nail Fraud Nail Decals

I had so much fun trying the Nail Fraud Houndstooth ($12.00 USD) decals! They are a fairly easy (once you get the hang of them) to apply and look very cool on! Here are some details of this cool product: 

• Kit comes with two sets of 20 nails, a Nail Fraud emery board inside a re-useable clear pencil case.

• Easy to use. No experience necessary. Just pick the right size, place on nail starting from bottom and file off excess.

• Made from flexible film which is waterproof.

• Stays on for one week.

• Easy to remove, just peel off or use nail polish remover.

• Frauds advantage over Polish:
No waiting, No chipping, No smearing

The pros of this product are that they look amazing and are easy to apply. The cons are that they started peeling off about an hour after I applied them. I think with a top coat, they would last longer. I am now into my second day of wear, and the tips have peeled off of most of them. I would recommend these for a night out or a special event.

Visit www.nailfraud.com to learn more and to purchase.

Jessica Nails Runway Style Collection for Spring 2011

 

International nail care leader JESSICA® is excited to unveil its latest colour collection inspired by goddess-like styles from Spring 2011 New York Fashion Week. The six-colour collection,
named “Runway Style”, compliments the whimsical yet captivating designs and color palette seen
on the runway.

Named after The Sirens Sea Goddesses, the mythical beauties whose enchanting voices seduce
passing sailors to shipwreck, the collection features a color palette of bold corals, shimmering
nudes and fresh grays that are designed to complement frothy chiffons, georgettes and velvet
devoré that mimic the waves of the sea.

 The shades are:
 
Temptress of the Sea — glistening beige 
 
Goddess — shimmery white
 
Alluring Creature — baby pink
 
Coquette — iridescent grey
 
Seductress — ruby pink
 
Enchantress — orange coral
 
 
All of these colors are gorgeous. I especially love the Coquette because I haven’t seen many shimmery grey polishes and the Alluring Creature because a lovely soft pink is perfect for spring. Pearly white is a trend this spring, so Goddess is another fab choice. 
   
About Jessica: Known as “The First Hand in Nails,” Jessica Vartoughian is the pioneer in the professional nail care industry. As the first to recognize that all nails are not alike, Jessica’s unique philosophy has translated into a global cosmetics company. She has utilized her groundbreaking Nail Cultivation System, trend setting range of nail colours and individualized nail treatments to specialize in providing women with beautifully manicured hands and feet.

Today, after over 30 years of being at the forefront of the nail care industry, the JESSICA system and product range is successfully offered in over 28 countries. 

 Each polish retails at $7.50 USD. Visit www.jessicanails.com to learn more and to purchase.  

China Glaze Anchors Away Spring 2011 Collection

China Glaze Anchors Away Spring 2011 Collection

Sail away this spring in 12 nautically-inspired colors from China Glaze. These bold and confident brights are reminiscent of a carefree natural getaway, with soft ethereal hues that inspire leisurely thoughts of sand and sea. Colors in this collection include:
 
·        Life Preserver: Highly pigmented and luxurious poppy crème. 
·        Hey Sailor: Vibrant crème red. 
·        Ahoy!: Delightfully intense pink that flashes with reflective glass speck.
·        First Mate: Sophisticated and rich navy crème.
·        Starboard: Hip and playful green crème. 
·        Lighthouse: Multi-dimensional, bright yellow glass speck.
·        White Cap: Whimsical and sparkling multi-dimensional white.
·        Pelican Gray: High shine, cool toned grey crème. 
·        Sea Spray: Calming pale blue crème. 
·        Below Deck: A flirty mix of taupe and violet.
·        Sunset Sail: Delightful peachy pink high shine crème. 
·        Knotty: Micro-particle beige shimmer.

Visit www.chinaglaze.com to learn more. China Glaze nail lacquers are available through salons and professional beauty supply stores nationwide.

Dry Skin Driving You Crazy This Winter? Soothe It With New Products for Hands and Body

When the weather gets cold and dry (and blizzards like it did in Kansas City this week), skin and nails really need to be nourished.  My hands and feet especially have been cracked and my cuticles are peeling. I have taken this opportunity to try new products (or ones that are new to me) to get my skin feeling soft and hydrated.

Cures by Avance Hydrating Body Silk ($26.00 USD) is a weightless body milk which claims to transform the skin. I like to use this after a shower to lock in the moisture. My skin feels silky and soft afer use. To purchase, visit  www.curesbyavance.com

It’s a known fact that winter air completely zaps the essential natural oils found in  skin and hair but unfortunately, attention to the nails has long been neglected. Due to the sub-zero effects outside and the bone-dry heat that is pumped indoors, the nails take a real beating – quickly becoming dry and brittle which results in cracks, painful splits and very short-lived manicures (the shame!)
 
In order to prevent and combat these harsh effects, protect nails with Perfect Formula’s Daily Moisture ($29.00 USD)– a tried and true treatment that keeps nails long, strong and healthy. Formulated with Keratin, the main protein that makes up nails, Jojoba Oil, an excellent moisturizer that is similar to the natural lubricant of skin, and Vitamin E, this product instantly nourishes and strengthens dry, thirsty nails even in the most treacherous conditions. 
 
To use, simply brush Daily Moisture on top of nails, under nails and on cuticles daily. Can be used on polished or natural nails. purchase at http://www.perfectformulas.com or QVC.com.

Caudalie Vine Body Butter ($36.00 USD) is deeply hydrating, with a delicious light scent and velvety texture melts into skin and provides all the therapeutic benefits and efficiency of Vinothérapie Spas. This lotion is perfect for anyone with very dry to damaged skin wanting an ultra nourishing, repairing and luxurious treatment. Apply morning and evening, massage gently into skin in upward motions.

I love the scent of this lotion, it is a bit fruity and is very refreshing. I like to apply it to my hands, feet and legs after shaving. Visit www.caudalie-usa.com to purchase.

Enjoy your hydrated skin!

Fab Beauty Stocking Stuffers Under $10.00 Part 2

Stuff her stocking with really original gifts that are $10.00 and under. Choose natural solid perfumes from Burt’s Bees, a delicious chocolate lotion from Philip B. and new nail polishes from Twilight Beauty — yes, THE Twilight franchise has a high-end makeup line so she can look like her favorite vampire or vampire lover!    

Burt’s Bees has recently released solid perfumes ($10.00 USD) in four scents, Naturally Beautiful, Naturally Happy, Naturally Fresh and Naturally Sensual. The descriptions are:

Naturally Beautiful–  Feel beautiful with this 100% natural fusion of Peach, Jasmine, Black Tea, Ylang Ylang and Vanilla. A perfect balance of fresh fruits and flower blossoms infuses a solid base of skin-loving natural oils, waxes and butters to provide a pure, lovely fragrance for her.

Naturally Happy — Fill your days with smiles with this 100% natural solid perfume bursting with bold citrus-floral notes from Brazilian Oranges, Florida Grapefruits, Rose Petals and Cedarwood. This solid perfume is formulated with some of the best ingredients found in nature – fragrant botanical oils fused with skin-loving natural oils, waxes and butters.

Naturally Fresh — Fresh and energizing, this 100% natural fragrance sparkles with sunny notes of Lemon and Grapefruit mixed with woodsy Cedar.  This vibrant solid perfume is infused with some of the best ingredients found in nature – fragrant botanical oils mixed with skin-loving natural oils, waxes and butters.

Naturally Sensual — Exude feminine sensuality with this 100% natural fusion of Italian Lemon, Sweet Pineapple, Rose-Geranium, Vanilla and woody Patchouli. A perfect blend of fresh fruits, floral and woodsy notes infused a solid base of skin-loving natural oils, waxes and butters to provide a pure, sexy fragrance for her.

Visit www.burtsbees.com to learn more and to purchase.

Philip B. 2oz Chocolate Milk Body Crème ($10.00 USD)  A rich, happy smell – the finest Chocolate and Vanilla Extracts are blended in this subtle and sophisticated crème. This very moisturizing product makes a great stocking stuffer for your sister or BFF! Available at www.philipb.com.

Nox Twilight nail polish ($6.99 USD) is the newest edition of products from Twilight Beauty. Inspired by the powerful Cullen coven, this line of professional quality nail polish prominently features the enduring Cullen crest on the center of each bottle. Buy your favorite shades or splurge on the Ultimate Collection of all 12 shades at a TwilightBeauty.com exclusive price of $65 $40 (a $84 value).

To reflect each unique member of this clan, Nox Twilight provides a wide array of shades:

Red Velvet – Classic cherry red
Chiffon – Soft delicate pink
Debutante – Fresh peachy-pink
Sugar Plum – Plummy iridescent
Disco Darling – Glimmer shimmer
Wine & Dine – Sparkling champagne
Talon – Forbidding navy
Sangria – Vampy bordeaux
Black Tie – Best-dressed black
Poseidon – Sky blue
Crush – Sassy hot pink
Citrus – Energizing bright orange

Right now I am loving Sugar Plum. It is bright and shiny, which is perfect for the holiday season. Afterwards, I can see my self wearing Sangria or Talon for the rest of the winter. This is very good quality polish, but I suggest wearing a top coat to keep color chip-free for longer. I wore it without a top coat and it didn’t chip for about 3 days, which is pretty good! Visit www.twilightbeauty.com to purchase.

Nail Gift Ideas For The Holidays

Nail polish is always a perfect gift for anyone from girls to older women because is it so much fun to glam up the nails! Below are just three great choices!

Hard Candy Nail Polish 4 Pack Set With Matching Rings ($10.00 USD on sale now online at www.walmart.com for $7.00)

  • Set includes four Hard Candy just nails nail polishes in limited edition trend setting shades
  • Limited edition zipper rose rings are also included
  • No animal testing

    • Jessica Nails Heritage Collection Holiday 2010 – 5 Piece Set ($19.95 USD) — You can find this beautiful set at www.jessicacosmetics.com. It includes:

    Antique – Gunmetal Metallic
    Estate – Royal Shimmery Blue
    Tradition – Crème Pine Green
    Plus Reward Base Coat for Normal Nails & Brilliance Top Coat 

    CND Sparkling Holiday Effects Duo ($22.00 USD)  Sparkling Holiday Effects Duo is a glamorous gift for the most polished holiday hostess. It includes a .33 fl oz bottle each of “Silver Sparkle” Effect and “Gold Sparkle” Effect. Visit www.cnd.com to purchase.