• Plan an hour for this manicure - the process is the same as our regular half-hour manicure, but the polish application takes extra time
• Each coat of polish is cured under a UV light - drying the polish instantly
• At present, Michael's has 14 colors to choose from for an Axxium manicure, as the service becomes more popular, we (and OPI) keep adding more
• Removal of the Axxium gel lacquer polish doesn't damage your nails like other nail enhancements
• Axxium is available for pedicures also!
  

Do you get frustrated when your nail polish chips a few days after a manicure? OPI has developed a new gel lacquer system called Axxium that makes your polish last and last. The polish instantly cures under a UV light - no more being careful reaching into your purse or putting on your coat after getting your nails painted!

An Axxium manicure can last several weeks, depending on how much you work with your hands. Mary, a designer at Michael's says her Axxium manicures usually last about a week, but she has her hands in water and chemicals all day long. I sit at a desk and my Axxium manicure didn't chip for three weeks! For more information on Axxium, check out this previous blog post all about it.

MD Express Peel is a microexfoliation treatment that removes unwanted cellular debris from the surface of the skin, resulting in a smoother, firmer and more luminous complexion. It helps treat enlarged pores and gently calms redness with soothing botanicals. Results are significant, noticeable and immediate. An MD Express Peel is a results-oriented treatment, so if you're looking for relaxation, please check out our other facial options.

Alpha/Beta peels are especially helpful for those with problem skin - acne, rosacea, scarring, sun damage, aging - all of these can be minimized with an MD peel. For more information, check out our previous blog posts, or visit the MD Skincare website. Also, check back to our blog next week - we will feature a video with Paula demonstrating the MD Alpha/Beta peel.
UPDATE: Click here to view the MD Alpha/Beta video

I'm sure most people are familiar with manicures and pedicures - but do you realize what having poorly treated hands and feet says about you? At best, it says you can't be bothered by little details. Sure, not everyone can afford to get weekly manicures and pedicures, but the nail technicians at Michael's can give you a good foundation that can be kept up with a little at home maintenance.

Manicures and pedicures are more than just polish applications - it's about maintaining the health and appearance of your nails. Your cuticles will be trimmed and neatened, hands and feet moisturized, feet buffed and exfoliated, and nails neatly shaped. A manicure is a must-have before a job interview, and you need a pedicure before you wear your strappy sandals this season :)

When you get an Axxium manicure, plan for it to take an hour. We will groom your cuticles and shape and buff your nails, just like a regular manicure. Then the Axxium gel base is applied, then cured under UV light. Two coats of polish are applied and cured under UV light again, and then a UV topcoat is applied and cured, and you're all set!

Your nails are dry when you get up from the table; there's no need to be careful getting into your handbag or putting on your coat. And the polish lasts and lasts! Depending on how much you use your hands it can last well over a week. It's great for vacations and special occasions when you want your nail color to last!

When you're ready to change your polish, schedule an appointment, and we can soak off the Axxium gel lacquer. We strongly recommend scheduling an appointment; this is not normal nail polish and normal nail polish remover won't do the job. We'll soak your nails, leaving them healthy and ready for a new color!

We've already had feedback from some of our designers who have tried the Axxium manicure:

• Just tried the Axxium manicure with Jenny, think I might have a new favorite spa service. I love the look and the strength it gives my nails. Come try it and see.  

Tara Myers

• i got that on Sunday with Samantha..totally loved it!!!! i would for sure get it done again!!!!!!!!!!

Laura McKinney