In the past decade, manicure salons have popped up all over town, but how do you tell a good one from a not-so-good one?
We chatted to Imogene Bevan of Auckland’s POP Nail Bar for some expert tips on how to choose one that’s professional, hygienic and won’t pose a risk to your health.
Here’s what you need to know…
Do your research
When it comes to a nail salon’s reputation, good or otherwise, it pays to ask around.
“Nothing beats a word-of-mouth review,” says Imogene. “Having a friend tell you they’ve had the best experience somewhere is priceless,” she adds.
A quick look on the internet is another way to get a feel for whether or not a salon is professional and trustworthy.
“These days, the internet and social media have made it simple to get a basic review on a nail bar that points us in the right direction,” she says.
Take a look
Rather than making a booking over the phone, physically visit the salon and take a look around.
Imogene says there should be a basic hygiene standards certificate on the wall from the local council. The Auckland Council recently introduced a health protection licence along with a code of practice for manicures and pedicures.
Every manicurist should also have a qualification to show they have the skills and knowledge necessary. According to the Auckland Council code of practice, this can be a national certification – or international equivalent – in Beauty Services (beautician) or Nail Technology; commercial industry experience of five years or more and evidence of professional development; or proof of training with a nail services training provider.
“Always feel free to ask to see their qualification if it’s not clearly displayed,” tells Imogene.
Check out their hygiene practices
Scanning the nail bar to see that staff are sanitising their tools and equipment before every use is crucial, but can sometimes be difficult to see.
“This is where you have to trust that your manicurist is legit,” says Imogene.
Sharing of equipment such as scissors, files and buffing blocks can transfer fungal infections, warts or even worse, diseases such as hepatitis, especially if you have any tiny cuts or abrasions.
As well as a range of quality stainless steel tools, Imogene says a good manicurist will operate with other tools and surfaces that are either disposable or easily cleaned.
“There should never be a dirty pile of used tools visible and all waste should be discarded into a bin with a lid.” It’s also good practice for your manicurist to be wearing single-use surgical gloves.
How about the smell?
All salons should have good ventilation, either through open doors and windows or with ventilation systems, especially near worktables that are carrying out acrylic nail procedures.
“Large-scale salons that have multiple customers at once always smell the strongest, whereas boutique salons that may only have 1-2 customers at a time generally don’t have a strong chemical odour,” explains Imogene.
Say no to cuticle cutting
“Cuticles are there to protect your nail beds,” warns Imogene. “So when they’re cut, they think they are under attack and will grow back thicker and rougher.”
It’s also a prime way to invite infection, so avoid it at all costs.
“They should only ever be softened and pushed back with a cuticle removing solution that slowly removes dead skin,” she says.
And Imogene is adamant that there should never be any discomfort at all during a nail treatment.
Nails on trend
“I’m loving nude nails paired with metallic foils and greyish purples,” says Imogene. We say try:
Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Luna Pearl, $16.99; Yves Saint Laurent La Laque Couture in No 70 Peace Green, $48; Revlon Nail Enamel in Sophisticated, $16.50; OPI Lacquer in Take a Right on Bourbon, $19.95.
Top tip
Imogene advises using cuticle oil regularly – and lots of it.
“If you keep your cuticles well moisturised, it helps your nails to grow strong and healthy.”
Try Weleda Nail Care Pen, $19.90.
