With prom approaching, even the smallest details count

By: Meher Ahmad <[email protected]> and Beth Brookie <[email protected]>

CLAY NAILS
12534 N. Gray Rd.

Atmosphere
The small salon reflected the casualness of a neighborhood salon. The décor was chic yet homey, and they achieved an openness despite the size. A-

Service
Though several of the technicians spoke almost no English, their smiling faces and dedication did not go unnoticed. The women worked meticulously and caringly to give me one of the most thorough pedicures I have ever received. A

Cleanliness
The salon seemed reasonably clean, though no cleaner than most, and the technicians cleaned their tools directly after finishing the manicures. A-

Quality
The quality of the polish job was not the best I have received, yet the woman painting my nails did add adorable flowers to my toes and refused to charge me the extra $5. B+

Price
Though the price of a manicure is reasonable, pedicures at Clay Nails are more expensive than other salons of similar quality. Manicure: $15. Pedicure: $27. Combination: $40. B-

Overall
The friendly, attractive salon had a great atmosphere, and the technicians were hardworking and dedicated. A-

LUXE NAILS
13190 Hazel Dell Pkwy.

Atmosphere
Luxe had little decorations or wall paintings, and the atmosphere was somewhat lacking. However, Luxe Nails didn’t reek of chemicals; it has special ceiling vents to prevent the smell of nail polish remover from lingering. B

Service
The nail technicians were charming and helpful. A

Cleanliness
Usually nail salons have questionable cleaning standards, but Luxe seemed to have completely sanitized materials that were pulled out of cleaning solution in front of the customer. A+

Quality
The manicure itself was well done and lasted a full week without chipping. A

Price
With a regular manicure for $15, Luxe is by far the least expensive option. French manicure: $20 Pedicure: $25. French pedicure: $30. Regular manicure: $15. A+

Overall
Luxe Nails is the biggest bang for your buck. At the low price, it’s definitely worth skimping on the atmosphere for a great manicure. A

GLACÉ NAILS
14550 Clay Terrace Blvd.

Atmosphere
Located within Clay Terrace, the nail salon offers a friendly atmosphere with interesting decoration. The arched ceiling is an interesting touch. A

Service
Although not quite as talkative as most manicurists, the nail technicians were very friendly. A-

Cleanliness
The sanitary aspect of this nail salon was not quite up to par. The utensils didn’t appear to be dirty, but upon further observation, it was noted that they were washed by hand with a brush and soap. The countertops were not completely spotless either, but nothing stood out to be exceptionally unclean. B-

Quality
This manicure was nothing above the average, but did hold up well to the wear and tear of high school life. B+

Price
Starting at $17 for a manicure, Glacé has reasonable but not outstandingly inexpensive prices. B+

Overall
With reasonable prices and reasonable results, Glacé Nails falls into the mediocre category of nail salons in Carmel. B+