Hello, it’s me, your friendly neighborhood nail and lash therapist!

Let me share a story about a wonderful client Sam. Our journey began on December 1st with a pretty standard inquiry: "Do you do tips? I've worn acrylics for over 10 years, and... well, I tend to bite my natural nails. I prefer them longer."

We started chatting about our services, and I asked, "What treatment are you using now?" Sam hesitated before admitting, "I've developed an allergy to acrylics. My nails are bare now, and honestly, they're not in great shape." I asked for a photo of her nails.

My head spun. Surely, the nail bars Sam visited should have advised her to see her GP, right?! But hey, I figured we could gently guide Sam in the right direction. I explained that depending on the state of her nails, we might just do a manicure, or I might suggest she see her doctor. My gut, however, told me that Sam wasn't quite ready for that leap.

Fast forward to February 2024.

After sending out a routine message to clients, Sam responded, asking about availability. As we ping-ponged messages back and forth, I had a nagging feeling—I needed to see her nails.

Brace yourself...

I was floored by what I saw. The pain Sam must be enduring! I noticed little white particles on her nails, and even before I asked, I knew—she'd had another set of acrylics applied to her already fragile nails. I asked anyway, and she admitted, "Yeah, I did. Big mistake, I know, but it’s so hard to break the habit after all this time."

My heart sank for Sam. I acknowledged how tough it is to break habits and asked her to call me. Sam did, after dropping her kids off, and she described the pain she feels just buttoning their clothes and doing everyday tasks.

I pressed upon her the importance of seeing her GP right away. The struggle is real, and so is the care.

After months of check-ins, the day finally arrived when we could safely treat Lily’s hands and nails.

There were tears, hugs, and, most importantly, a celebration of growth. Now, to some, this might seem strange, but as a former nail-biter myself, I knew this was no small feat. But the real work had just begun.

After monthly manicures, I promised Sam that I’d have a forest green gel ready and waiting (I dangled that carrot for months). Lily stuck to her home care routine, and finally, we reached her first BioGel Mani! We made it!! We F%#KING made it!

First e-file manual prep gel mani—done. Frankly, reliving this journey is emotional.

3 weeks later, e-file and manual prep mani—complete. And just in time to celebrate lily’s 32nd lap around the sun!

After months of dedication, patience, and hard work, Sam’s nails transformed from their painful, damaged state into strong, healthy, and beautifully manicured nails she now proudly flaunts. This journey was more than just about nails—it was about self-care, perseverance, and the remarkable difference that taking the right steps can make. And Sam's journey doesn’t end here. She continues to come in every three weeks, committed to maintaining and improving her nail and skin health.

For Sam, it was more than just a manicure; it was a milestone in reclaiming her confidence and well-being. And for me, it was a reminder of why I love what I do—helping people feel their best, one nail at a time. Here's to many more victories, big and small, and to the power of self-care. 🥂

Here’s to you lovely,

Bec,

Xx