At The Nail Social, one of the newest nail salons about town, I can contribute back to society while getting my nails pampered. The socially conscious salon provides single mothers and women from low-income households (who face greater barriers of entry to employment) full-time employment as nail technicians so that they can attain self-sufficiency, and sponsors their training at The Pink Room International Nail Academy. The first of its kind lifestyle concept salon also offers nail services that use only organic, fair-trade, and cruelty-free products.
Nestled on the second level of a shophouse along the hip Haji Lane, The Nail Social is conveniently located and pretty easy to get to from Bugis train station. It’s also a ‘dangerous’ street for me, cos’ there’s so many awesome shops, I took over an hour just to walk to the salon – I kept stopping to shop LOL!
Simply look up and look out for their signboard as you sashay down the street; it’s pretty easy to spot.
Up we go for our appointment!
Be greeted by a row of pretty dried florals at the entrance of the salon
Great way to people-watch by the salon window too :) I like that it feels like a private enclave away from the bustle of the city, making it a relaxing experience.
In line with their eco-friendly philosophy, The Nail Social uses only eco-friendly and non-toxic brands such as Korean brand Angel Pro for their nail gel services. An organic brand that is free from harmful chemicals found in traditional nail enamel like Formaldehyde, Toluene or DBP, their products are also cruelty-free and not tested on animals.
Have your pick from a wide array of over 100 OPI colours.. Did you know OPI is one of the best “green” nail polish available, with no DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and Toluene in them? From my experience, the polish slides on more easily, lasts longer and is also easier to clean off.
The salon makes their own lemonade every morning and serves their sugar-reduced drink complimentary to all customers (psst, complimentary wine is served on Friday & Saturday evenings with minimum spend). Do also order a slice of home-baked cakes lovingly made by stay-home mums to help them earn an income.
Ain’t these gift cards cute? I can imagine it would put a smile on the lucky girl who receives it :)
The salon has a corner retailing fair-trade trinkets, so you can do some shopping while getting your nails done.
If you are in need of a pair of slippers after your pedicure, consider buying a pair of Soule flip flops, the latest fair-trade addition to the salon. A portion of each sale goes into initiatives to provide decent footwear for children living under the poverty line and survivors of natural disasters. Now I don’t feel that bad about forgetting to wear open shoes to my nail appointment.
You can organize your own tea party with friends or a corporate networking session at the private lounge on the second level of the salon.
Customers are treated like friends at the salon, and much effort is made to ensure you feel comfortable.
Getting ready for my pampering! I like it that the equipment is clean, new and fuss-free. Plus pretty flowers from socially-conscious florist Hello Flowers to look at.
I get bored easily during manicures when both my hands are at the mercy of the nail technician (and away from my precious phone), so I am pretty happy being presented with a personal iPad pre-loaded with movies, magazines, books and games to keep me entertained.
So many choices! I opted to catch up on my favorite Korean drama which I was starved for time to watch, now that’s what I call awesome multi-tasking! *wink*
Lalala di-dar…sip a cuppa coffee. Life feels good :)
I enjoyed my nail pampering and went home with an empowering print I now look at every morning before I start my day. I will be back to try their nail wraps. Do also look out for their charity events, such as the recent Manicures For A Purpose which raises funds for BABES, a crisis center for pregnant teens. I may not be able to carry a shovel and build schools, but I sure can contribute to worthy causes while getting my monthly manicure done. And you can too :)
The Nail Social
Address: 42A Haji Lane, Singapore 189235
Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 11:00AM – 9:00PM; Sat & Sun: 10:00AM – 8:00PM
Call +65 6717 3221 / Whatsapp: +65 8145 5226
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenailsocial.co
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/thenailsocial
Website/Online Booking: http://www.thenailsocial.co
Menu: http://www.thenailsocial.co/services.html
* Thanks The Nail Social for the invite.
