Road test: Bio Sculpture Gel.
Aim: Bio Sculpture claims to be the world's first nail gel providing chip-resistant and smudge-resistant nail colour that actually enhances the condition of your natural nails. The gel is polyurethane-based, and is non-toxic, and free of formaldehyde, toluene and phthalates.
What happens: After a quick clean, file and shape (Bio Sculpture isn't a full-on mani or pedicure) the first coat of gel — in a colour of your choice — is applied and set under a UV light for a couple of minutes. This process is then repeated to leave dry, perfectly set, coloured nails. As your nail grows, you can fill in the gap with the Bio Sculpture Gel take-home polish in a matching shade, or return to the salon every three-to-four weeks for a touch-up. Once you decide to remove the gel, it's soaked-off in-salon using acetone, or at home using a take-home kit ($49). Should you wish to paint over the colour while it's still on your talons, that's fine. You can also apply a shiny top coat should they become a little dull at any point.
Cost: $60
The bottom line: "I had my toenails done with Bio Sculpture Gel at Sydney salon, Stairway to Beauty, and two weeks after my appointment my nails still looked perfect — completely chip-free! I had the soak-off done at the salon, and while my nails felt a little rough afterwards, they certainly didn't feel 'damaged' like they had done in the past when I've had acrylics. I'd definitely use this product again." — Ella, 29
For more info: www.biosculpture.com.au.
Price correct as at September 25, 2008.
