In the epoch of beauty competition, the idea of creativity and the art of style is a must in every society. However, with the growing use of cosmetics and celebrity influence that have a high-perceived value and functionality, the trend for nail polishing (manicure and pedicure), has proved to be a cut-throat for many.

It is no longer a secret that most women and girls will go without some basics and instead spend that only coin on their bodies in order to look attractive.

Asia Akamanzi, 20 believes nails, like other features on the body, need to be given an extra treatment and attention.
Pretty and polished, or shiny and sparkly, fancy nails are everywhere.

Adult women are more likely to select nail polishes that complement their own natural coloring. For example, a fair-skinned blonde might choose a rosy pink, while a dark brunette with ivory complexion might opt for a burgundy red, and a mocha beauty might select a mahogany polish.

But for young ladies, polish may match with long or short nails. Basically, anything goes. Most girls attempt to match their nails to their daily attire, so they change colors often.
Joan Agasaro at KP Beauty saloon says shorter nails do not wear loud colors well. If you can grow long nails, go ahead and try dramatic tones.

"However, if your lifestyle leads you to shorter fingernails, you may wish to stick with clear or light hues,” says Agasaro.

Sometimes women will try to coordinate their nail colours to their lipstick. This creates a lovely look, although it is no longer a fashion rule. In fact, fingernails and toenails need not match. Plenty of ladies paint their toes a darker hue than their fingers!

Grownups generally opt for subtle looks with natural colors, rather than rainbow hues, although some will still choose to make a daring and dramatic statement with nail polish.

The idea of manicure and nail polishing is no longer a thing for ladies only, because men too have embraced this trend. Many men are frequenting nail salons for male manicures and polishing.

However, most savvy men apply colorless polish, which still makes them look irresponsible. The idea of  men applying nail polish makes a dramatic statement.

Sandra Karenzi, 27, confesses that she loves men with good fingernails, but painting them is just going overboard in her opinion.

"A man can get all of the manicures in the world and still have some semblance of a traditional sense of manliness, but when he crosses the line to nail polish, he just looks feminine,” says Karenzi.

Hygiene

Jackie of New Image saloon says one has to at least groom them weekly, moisturising them daily and care properly for the cuticles.

"While attractive nails and feet are just that,” says Chantelle Mutoni, at City Saloon, adding that, "the health and integrity of your skin is something one should take seriously”.

In some other saloons, like Ihoho saloon, when a client visits, she or he is given explanations why grooming the nails and probably painting them is necessary.

At Ihoho, they don’t only treat nails, but also offer tips to their clients about how they can treat their nails.

"I feel wonderful when I have just painted your nails,” says Sandra Batamuriza.

Whenever she paints her nails, Batamuriza adds she feels more feminine, and thinks that it makes her believe that she s striking.

Contact: lindaonly2005@yahoo.com