Beauty & Wellness
The art of living well, from Asheville spas to Charlotte salons.
The Scalp-First Movement Transforming Carolina Hair Care
Salons across the state are treating hair health as a matter of dermatology, borrowing the language of skincare to build a lucrative new category.
Globby Acrylic, Mismatched Shapes, and an Ombré That Never Appeared at Noire The Nail Bar North Raleigh
A client asked for a pink and white ombré fill-in and left with runny, bumpy acrylic, mismatched shapes she had to file herself, and light pink nails with no ombré at all, all for $58. A look at acrylic fundamentals, consistent shaping, and a redo done right.
Charged for a Design They Couldn't Do and a Shape Change That Made No Sense at Hollywood Nails & Spa
A client paid $90 for an acrylic set, plus $15 for a design that had to be removed three times before she settled for dots, and another $15 for a shape change on nails she did not arrive with. A look at charging only for what is delivered and keeping billing accurate.
When the Basics Slip: Rusted Tools and an Uneven Manicure at Majestic Nails
A brief review described rusted tools, an uneven manicure, and skin nicked to the point of bleeding. A look at the non-negotiable basics of a safe, well-done manicure: clean tools, careful technique, and an even finish.
The Corporate Retreat Grows Up, and Heads for the Mountains
Executive teams are trading conference hotels for immersive mountain wellness retreats, and a Carolina hospitality niche is booming to meet them.
A Harsh Soak-Off, Choking Fumes, and a Drill Burn at Pearl Nail Spa
A client described a dip removal done with an acetone-soaked bag set in boiling hot water, fumes that left her coughing with burning eyes, and a drill that went too far and burned her natural nail. A look at a gentle, safe soak-off and listening when a client is in distress.