I don’t know about you, but I love getting manicures! When I am home, my mom and I always spend at least one day getting manicures and pedicures. It is so relaxing, and I love looking down at my polished hands and feet. The only problem with manicures is that you spend all this money and then two days later, on cue my nails begin to chip. Once one finger chips, you know it’s a domino effect, and soon enough all of your nails will begin chipping.
Every other week my mom and her girlfriends go to our local manicure salon for manicures. This past summer, they started getting shellac as opposed to regular nail polish manicures. Shellac is a hybrid: half nail polish, half gel. When you get shellac, it is guaranteed to be chip-free for at least 14 days! Yes, I know, 14 WHOLE days of no chips! In between each coat, you put your hands under the UV light, like you would for acrylic nails. This helps seal the nail polish and allows it to not chip as easily.
Shellac is more expensive than a regular manicure. Basic manicures can go anywhere from $12-$20, while shellac manicures are typically between $30-$40 depending on the salon (Unfortunately, for us Northeastern students, Boston shellac manicures can cost even more.)
My shellac manicure after 3 weeks – no chips!!
While this might be a little expensive for a college girl’s budget, it is a great way to treat yourself after a big exam week or having a day of beauty with the girls.
Around Northeastern’s campus, there are a number of salons that offer shellac nail polish. Below are five places that you can get to by walking; some are even affordable! Give shellac a shot, I was skeptical too, but I am a big fan!
Bliss Spa:
W Hotel
100 Stuart Street
(617) 261-8747
30 minute Shellac manicure: $40
G20 Salon:
278 Newbury Street
(617) 262-2220
Open seven days a week
60 minute Shellac manicure: $65
45 minute Shellac manicure: $50
Lisa’s Nails on Newbury:
170 Newbury Street
(617) 247-4849
Open seven days a week
Shellac manicure: $32
Jennifer’s Nail & Skin Salon:
224-A Newbury Street
(617) 437-0777
Open seven days a week
Shellac Manicure: $25
MiniLuxe
296 Newbury Street
(857) 362-7444
Open seven days a week
60 minute Minx Mani (equivalent to Shellac): $50