The Art Of Nails

Some people only feel properly groomed if they have mascara on, others with a lick of lip gloss, I however don’t feel fully made up unless my nails are manicured and painted in a shiny hue. To this end I have tried many types of semi-permanent nail polishes eventually settling into a long-term relationship with powder gel to ensure the colour I love stays on for a good three weeks. When applied well it was long lasting, didn’t chip or crack and looked good until it was time to refill or remove.

But it seems that my relationship with powder gel has come to an amicable end. I will always remember it fondly but there is a new player in town who has not only seduced me with its easy application and range of colours but also surprised me as it has gone the distance, something colour gels in the past struggled with. It is as shiny three weeks on as it is when first applied and if it wasn’t for the regrowth, I wouldn’t need to get it removed.

Artistic Colour Gloss was created by top Hollywood ‘Man’-icurist Tom Bachik, who has tended the fingertips of A-listers including Victoria Beckham, J-Lo, Cameron Diaz and Beyoncé.

Commenting on the latest A/W nail trends, Tom comments: “We saw a wide range of looks and effects for nails for autumn 11’ from short, slightly oval shaped nails to longer talons. Dominating colours on the catwalks for fashion weeks included nude or camel nails with a matt finish, deep plums, mulberry, navy and the odd orange thrown in for fun – whether it was burnt or neon! I think nail art is also peeking its head back in the market, but in the form of just a little personal style – an accent nail or two is all that’s needed.”

Lasting up to 21 days and available in 66 shades, Artistic Colour Gloss glides beautifully onto finger and toe nails. It is applied like a normal nail polish then is lamp cured to dry in as little as 30 seconds. I keep forgetting that my fingernails are totally dry after the manicure is complete and am tentatively texting to protect my nails when my manicurist reminds me that I don’t have to do that.

The whole manicure is finished in just 45 minute and looked fabulous for a full three weeks. Removing is best done in a salon where they soak of the gel but it is relatively quick and easy and my nails were in exceptional condition underneath especially after a quick buff. My only quandary is what colour to choose next!

To get your own everlasting manicure, indulge at Urban Retreat at Harrods for £55.