For years, semi-permanent manicure was my favorite beauty ritual. I was fascinated by nails that were always flawless, shiny, and without a single mark. I went to the salon every few weeks without overthinking it too much; it was that little moment for me, like taking a necessary pause. But gradually I began to notice something I didn’t want to admit: after each removal, my nails became thinner and more sensitive, as if they could no longer withstand the same stress.
At first I thought it was temporary, but it ended up being impossible to ignore. My nails snagged on any fabric —a sweater, the pillowcase, even when I ran my hand through my hair— and they’d break with just a touch. The only way to prevent further deterioration was to keep them very short. At first I experienced it almost as a punishment, but over time I understood it as a true form of self-care.
The problem wasn’t just the polish, but the removal process. Even when done properly, filing and the harsh products took their toll. And, to be honest, more than once I grew impatient and pulled at the polish when it started to lift a little. That gesture, which may seem harmless, ended up pulling off natural layers of the nail. So I stopped abruptly and began a kind of “rehabilitation”: a keratin-strengthener and, above all, stopping using them as a tool for everything.
During that pause I learned to look at my nails differently. I got used to seeing them short and natural, nothing more, and it was curious how they stopped breaking and gradually regained thickness. I discovered that taking care of yourself doesn’t always have to mean being perfect, but listening to what the body — or in this case, the nails — needs.
Today they don’t follow the standards of a perfect manicure, but they are healthy and strong. And I have learned something I hadn’t seen before: sometimes true beauty lies in knowing when to stop, in removing layers rather than adding them.
Essie To The Rescue.
Essie To The Rescue
Clinically proven treatment that thickens, protects, and repairs in just five days. Vegan formula, formaldehyde-free, with proteins, ceramides, and keratin. Provides natural shine and deep hydration. Ideal as a base before any manicure.
Mavala Científico K+.
Mavala Científico K+
Works as a serum that reinforces the nail’s natural keratinization. Improves cohesion between fibers and prevents it from splitting or peeling. Especially effective on weakened nails.
Vitry Científico K+
Vitry Sensitive Pro Expert
Repair concentrate for soft, thin, or brittle nails. It strengthens, protects, and visibly improves their resilience in just two weeks.
