Every two weeks without fail my nails are treated to a glossy coat of semi-permanent colour. And when it comes to a lasting result, Erin Larsen nail technician from the Elizabeth Arden Boutique is a master. She is a fan of CND Shellac - and, as it happens, so am I. Simply for its shine, lasting power and the range of designer-inspired shades. A quick background: It is the original “power polish,” launched in 2013, it still rates as a number one semi-permanent lacquer on the market. Not only for the shine, but the brilliant colours, (my faves Fedora, a dark black red, Romantic, the perfect nude and Asphalt a black grey) and for its ease of removal. That combined with the high-gloss finish and an extended 14-day wear, it's become a beauty essential. Larsen believes it's like body armour for the nails, and with zero dry time – it means I can dig around in my handbags for car keys, and then rush out of the Boutique, without the risk of chipping a nail. However, you're responsible for keeping nails well hydrated. This polish needs to be moisturised to stay looking good. “Use your Solar Oil as often as you can, keep your nails hydrated, splitting and peeling nails are dehydrated nails, and when they are dry, the CND Shellac shrinks and this causes it to peel or chip off." Larsen warns "It's impossible not to expose nails to water, but the nail oil repels moisture and prevents them from drying out." And that's where the experience of a mani at Elizabeth Arden Spa is a standout. No soaking, just sanitized nails that are kept hydrated during this beauty service. No cutting of the cuticle either, just gentle pushing back with an orange stick, and expert buffing and filing to gain the perfect squaoval shape. And, there is something about sitting in this luxe environment, it's like being a kid in a candy store, with the table of colour cosmetics at your reach. I never leave without a touch of blush or lippy, for my drive home. To make life even easier, book your mani online at Elizabeth Arden Boutique Shellac Manicure costs $65 allow 75 minutes.
The latest shades from CND Shellac Craft Culture collection.