PEOPLE West Coast News Editor, Aili Nahas, tried a luxurious non-toxic nail salon ... that serves cocktails!
What Is It: Base Coat, a luxurious non-toxic nail salon (with tarot readings!)
Who Tried It: Aili Nahas, West Coast News Editor
Why She Did It: There’s nothing like a fresh mani/pedi to start the week off right
Level of Pain: Zero, unless you’re the type to tense up over those callus remover scrubs!
Looking for a more relaxed nail salon experience? Enter the team at Base Coat, whose second location in Downtown Los Angeles (the franchise started in Denver) strive to give customers a perfectly Zen salon experience using only non-toxic and vegan-friendly products.
In addition to styling their spot with über cool vibes (more like a hipster loft than the clinical feel of a traditional salon) the Base Coat founders created their own gorgeously rich nail colors — no more chemical smells! After much deliberation, I chose a beautiful milky beige for my nails and a raspberry shade for my toes. Side note: I was six months pregnant and perfectly at ease knowing that I wasn’t inhaling any toxins or harmful fumes. It made for a much more relaxing experience, though sadly I couldn’t partake in any of the tonic-based cocktails that are be served at the location’s artsy chic bar.
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After a luxe treatment (complete with an aromatherapy hand soak and a sensational hand and foot massage), I was offered a seat on the outdoor patio to chill while my nails dried. Base Coat also offers tarot card readings and henna tattoos; both are part of the owners’ vision of a go to spot to primp, pamper and socialize with friends. I’ll take it! (And I’ll be back soon for that drink!)
Price: Base Coat Manicure $40/ Base Coat Pedicure $50