Recession Chic: Best At Home Manicure
by Ashlin Choate
Aug 11, 2010 12:49 PM PDT
There's no doubt about it: Getting your nails done professionally is worth the money--if only because of the pampering that comes with it. But for most of us, booking and keeping a regular appointment is next to impossible. And also, kind of expensive! It's easy to nail a good manicure or pedicure (one that lasts a week or more) at home if you allow yourself 30 minutes--about 15 minutes for prep work and application and 15 minutes for nails to dry. You can shrink that time if you use drying aids, like speedy topcoats or finishing sprays. While you are at it, pamper yourself with easy things like aromatherapy and some of your favorite music! Here's how to score a perfect 10 -- without the $40 nail salon visit.
1. Start by removing old polish. For natural nails, use a non-acetone remover. Try Cutex Essential Care Advanced Nail Polish Remover Pads.2. Use a very handy 4-sided nail buffer for polishing, buffing and shining your nails. After using this product, your nails will have a beautiful manicure shine without the polish, so this inexpensive tool is great for when you want to go bare. 3. File nails to desired shape. What looks modern now is a shortish nail,straight across the top with rounded edges. File your nails in one direction starting at the edges and moving toward the top.4. Soak in soapy water for a few minutes to soften cuticles.
Pamper Those Poor Feet! Our Favorite Foot Care Superstars..
by Greta
Nov 29, 2008 10:18 AM PST
I spent last weekend having fun with my girlfriends in Las Vegas, and while the trip was a huge success, my feet are another story. In fact, the only adjective that comes to mind when I think of the current state of my feet is "mangled." Two very long nights of 5+ inch BCBGirls platform t-straps (so worth the pain!) will do that to you. But limping around in my ballet flats is getting old fast, and now I'm in the market for some serious feet fixer-uppers. Luckily it appears that there is an impressive number of stiletto-lovers in the Hive, because I've been able to find a ton of creams, buffers, wraps, and scrubs all made with the tortured foot in mind. Like this adorable Burt's Bees Pedicure Kit which looks tiny, but is actually packed with pedicure necessities like a pumice stone, coconut foot creme, and an adorable pair of socks to keep your toes cozy and soft. For a thick and creamy foot treatment, look no further than this handcrafted Eucalyptus Oil Shea Butter Foot Cream. It's blended with organic unrefined shea butter and is infused with anti-fungal tee tree oil to make sure feet stay fresh. Your feet deserve a treat! Search the Hive for more foot care superstars, and be sure to check out my SLIDESHOW to see my favorite items!
