I usually get my nails done (when I get them done at all) at a neighborhood salon/day spa. This sets me back about $20. Base coat, two coats of color, and top coat, all meticulously applied -- plus all that cuticle trimming, oil dripping and lotion rubbing that makes a manicure an experience. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the procedure -- but I think the bulk of it is just for show -- all that really matters is that they put the paint on your nails. And anyone can do that, right?
The other day, I was going someplace and thought painted nails might be nice. My local place didn't have any available appointments, so I went to the Cheapo Nail Place in the shopping mall. $8. For what appeared to be the same full-service manicure.
Oh sure, corners were cut -- they were a little stingier with the oil, and the "hand and lower arm massage" that usually comes with the manicure stopped at my wrist -- but, basically, they covered all the bases.
Except for the base coat. Rather than actually PAINT the base coat on my nails, the lady just dabbed a spot on each nail. She then went on and did the standard two coats of color followed by a top coat.
While my $20 manicure normally lasts three days without showing the slightest signs of wear -- and can generally make it a whole week without looking worn to a casual observer -- this $8 version started peeling the very next day. A lot. By day three, it was totally useless.
Conclusion: Base coat is not a rip-off, but an $8 manicure is.
1 comment:
yep, cheaper is not always better. there are certain things i will pay extra for because i want the quality. then there are other things that it just doesn't matter a whole heck of a lot.
sorry your nails aren't as pretty as they should be. i guess it's back to the $20 manicure.
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