A Personal Journey to Nail Perfection

As someone who cherishes the ritual of getting my nails done, I've experienced the transformative power of a great manicure. Transitioning from bi-weekly gel manicures to CND's Plexigel was a game-changer, extending my salon visits to every four weeks and resolving issues like overgrown hyponychium. Yet, my quest for the perfect, natural-looking nails didn't end there.

The Allure of "Naked" French Tips

Despite my love for the longevity and strength provided by builder gels, I've always leaned towards more natural nail aesthetics that gracefully withstand the test of time. Dark colors and elaborate designs were never my go-to, leading me to discover the understated elegance of "naked" French tips. This trend reimagines the classic French manicure into something effortlessly chic and timeless.

The Evolution of French Manicures

The French manicure, once deemed a relic of the past, has made a striking comeback, with "naked" French tips leading the charge. This modern twist retains the sophistication of the traditional French tip while embracing a more subdued and natural appearance. Vanessa Sanchez-McCullough, a celebrity nail artist, explained how this trend offers a cleaner, less intense version of the classic, giving the illusion of flawlessly natural nails.

Creating the Perfect "Naked" French Tip

Curious to experience this trend firsthand, I visited Sanchez-McCullough's studio in Laurel Canyon, Los Angeles. The process began with shaping my nails and applying a bonder, followed by the strategic application of CND Plexigel in Porcelain to achieve a delicate white tip. The use of CND Plexigel in Oatmilk for the base added to the natural look, ensuring the manicure would grow out seamlessly without noticeable lines.

The Dream Manicure Realized

The end result was nothing short of a dream. This approach to the French tip provided my nails with a uniform, clean look that made them appear naturally perfect. The subtle white tip enhanced the beauty of my nails without the drawbacks of traditional manicures, like visible dirt under the nails. This "naked" French tip manicure has captured my heart, and I'm already planning my next appointment.