Personally, I've never set foot in a nail parlour, and don't intend to any time soon. This is partly out of a fear that they might persuade me to have giant gemstones soldered into my nails which I'd be too polite to decline, but mainly because of those noxious fumes that eminate from them that just can't be doing any good. But I have envied friends with beautifully manicured nails.
If you're also put off by these high street torture-chambers, you'll be pleased to hear that there's an eco friendly, natural solution. Green Hands...
Green Hands is a one-stop-shop for creating beautiful hands and nails without the usual chemicals. Here you'll find water-based nail polishes in classic and trendy styles, including this season's neons. And if you want to put your hands in the hands a professional, you can visit Green Hands' studio for a variety of treatments: a manicure costs £15, consisting of a soothing hand soak with organic hand scrub, massage and moisturise with natural and intensive moisturiser, cuticle treatment, filing and finishing with the polish of your choice. And I promise the salon isn't scary!
From: BEST OF 2008: Eco-friendy and sustainable shoes