Gorgeous Nails on Your Wedding Day

It's wedding season once again, and brides all around the world are getting ready for one of (if not the) biggest days in their lives.  Everything has to be perfect - from head to toe - since all eyes will be on the blushing bride.

 

One of the most exciting moments of this glorious event is when the groom slips the wedding ring on his bride's finger.  After that everyone wants to feast their eyes on her hand.  Doesn't everyone want to have the most beautiful looking hands on this day?

 

For the ultimate wedding manicure I have chosen two polishes:

 

 

This indoor photo shows Rimmel London's "French Rose 140" on the left, TIPS Nail Conditioner in the center and "Sheer French Pink" by ASK Cosmetics on the right.

 

 

Indoor photo:  3 coats of "French Rose" by Rimmel, which started out very similar in its transparency to the second polish by ASK Cosmetics, but took on much more of a pinkish tone after 2 coats.

 

Indoor photo:  3 coats of "Sheer French Pink" by ASK Cosmetics, which makes your pinks look pinker and your whites look whiter.  Many people have noticed my nails with this polish on and commented how nice my French manicure looks.

 

 

All three pics above show Rimmel's "French Rose".  If you love the slightest hint of pink on your nails, this polish will fit the bill wonderfully.

 

In the above three photos you can see my right hand with 3 coats of "Sheer French Pink" and the last one shows TIPS Nail Conditioner, which I apply after each and every manicure to treat the cuticles.

 

Some more outdoor shots to show the difference between the two....

 

Rimmel's "French Rose"

ASK Cosmetics' "Sheer French Pink"

Which one do you prefer - more pink or more sheer?

 

 

Let's get social, shall we?

 

Connect with me here:

 

on Pinterest

 

on YouTube

 

on Facebook

 

or on the ASK Cosmetics website & online shop

 

Take care and til next time,  Lisa M.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Linda's Nail Transformation using TIPS Nail Conditioner

Bare Naked Nail Challenge sponsored by ASK Cosmetics Inc.

Week 0 - Photo taken Jan. 8th, 2012.

By the picture you can see that my nails are in rough shape. I recently trimmed them as I had a couple break back at work. I would like to be able to grow them longer but have them strong enough to endure the kind of work I have to do in retail. By getting on a regular routine/schedule with T.I.P.S. Nail Conditioner I know this is possible. Looking forward to the challenge. Thanks for the opportunity.

 

Week 1 - Photo taken Feb. 10th, 2012.

 

I can start to see the progress especially around the cuticle area.  They feel moisturized and my hangnails are becoming fewer.  My nails seem to withstand the wear and tear they get at my job.  Will keep you posted.

 

Week 2 - Photo taken Feb. 17th, 2012.

 

A picture is worth a thousand words, as the saying goes.  My nails are growing well and they feel great.  I continue to notice the soft, hydrated cuticles I have now thanks to TIPS Nail Conditioner.

 

Week 3 - Photo taken Feb. 27th, 2012.

 

 

Week 4 - Photo taken March 6th, 2012.

 

Week 5 - Photo taken March 13th, 2012.

 

 

 

Week 6 - Photos taken March 28th, 2012.

 

Here is an update on my nails.

I am really liking the fact that my nails seem to grow faster. They are unbelievably whiter and stronger. The tops of my nails are so smooth which I think is a good indication of the TIPS product (use of the Revival Skin Milk included) making them not so dry and so nice to apply polish on them. Having said this I do have to trim my nails more often but love using the file. Hope this encourages my “TIPS Family” to keep using this amazing product.

 

 

Week 7 - Photos taken April 3rd, 2012.

 

Here is my weekly updated picture.

As you can see my nails are very white & have grown very fast from my last picture taken just 1 week ago.  I am extremely pleased with your product and I know that it works. Consistency and patience really pays off.,,I am going to trim my nails as I find them too long for my liking so my next picture will look different as far as length goes, but I am confident my cuticles will remain the same.  Thank you for letting me share my progress.

Week 8 - Photo taken April 19th, 2012.

 

I have been faithfully using ASK Cosmetics products - TIPS Nail Conditioner on my finger nails since Feb. 10^th, 2012.  I have found the product to be extremely successful on my cuticles & nails. My cuticles are in great shape. The surface of my nails is soft, yet the nails are strong & whiter. I found my nails growing faster also as I have had to trim them more often to a length I was comfortable with.  I plan to continue using this product.

Thank you for the opportunity for me to do so.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When is the best time to apply T.I.P.S.?

To start off  I would like to begin with a few fundamental facts about nails:

• Your nails are so porous they absorb water and other substances 10 times faster than our skin;
• Underneath the hard nail is the so-called nail tissue, which resembles a sponge. 
• Our nail tissue absorbs water very easily and quickly, and it becomes swelled up.  Then once water evaporates again, it shrinks back down to normal size.
• Constant swelling and shrinking of your nail tissue (which we can hardly avoid when washing our hands several times a day!) causes dry, brittle nails.

 

One of the most common FAQ's is about the best time for application:

 

When is the best time of day to apply T.I.P.S.™?

Apply The Incredible Protection System (T.I.P.S.) when your nails are the driest, which for most of us is first thing in the morning.  Our nails have not been exposed to water during the night, so our nails and cuticles can absorb T.I.P.S. fast and effectively providing them with maximum protection for the rest of the day.   Any application of T.I.P.S. must be done when your hands have been out of water for at least 1 hour.  The reason being is that if your nails and cuticles have been exposed to water, they will be full of water and not dry enough to absorb our conditioning treatment.

If these concepts are clear, then it makes sense that T.I.P.S. Nail Conditioner, which is super rich in lipids, must be applied BEFORE exposing your hands to any water whatsoever.  T.I.P.S stands for The Incredible Protection System and that explains what it is designed to do:

1. replenish the lipids that are the "cement" holding your cells together and providing the nails with flexible strength;
2. protect your nail tissue and cuticles from a number of elements, for example: water (#1 cause of dry, brittle nails) as well as stripping substances/chemicals in cleaning detergents such as  harsh surfactants;
3. fortify and hydrate your nails and cuticles.

So, the bottomline is you want your nails to be completely dried out, which means no water in the nail tissue whatsoever, in order to get the maximum protection and fortification this product offers AND to achieve maximum results.

 

Thanks for stopping by and take care,  Lisa M.

How can I purchase TIPS Nail Conditioner?

The question arises time and time again about how people can purchase TIPS Nail Conditioner or any of the other nail, skin and hair care products by ASK Cosmetics Inc. 

 

At present ASK Cosmetics offers the following items:

 

Nail Care products: 

 

 

TIPS Nail Conditioner, Contour Nail File, TIPS for Toes

 

 

Skin Care products:

 

Revival Hand & Nail Cleanser, Revival Skin Conditioning Milk

 

 

Hair Care products:

 

Revival Daily-Use Shampoo, Revival Hair Conditioner

 

 

Nailwear products:

 

 

Revival Nail Polish Remover, a variety of high quality nail lacquers, all of which are Big 3 free, camphor free, vegan friendly

 

Complete details, including prices and kit configurations, can be found on the

ASK Cosmetics website - click here.

 

Current Deal:

 

TIPS Nail Conditioner + Contour Nail File = $15.99 + free shipping & handling internationally

 

If you have ever considered trying out the flagship product called TIPS Nail Conditioner by ASK Cosmetics to get rid of:  peeling, splitting, cracking, breaking, chipping, weak nails and those ugly hangnails, now is the time.  This deal is only valid while supplies last.  You must also use the promo code:  "Stocking Stuffer TIPS Kit in order to receive this amazing offer.

Please note that ASK Cosmetics' products cannot be purchased in any retail stores. 
 

All ASK Cosmetics products can be obtained directly on their online shop/website, by phone toll-free 1-877-275-5566 or through the shopping networks:  The Shopping Channel in Canada and QVC in the USA.  Caution - not all items are offered in the USA (i.e. hair care items) and prices vary slightly.  The above-mentioned deal is ONLY offered through the ASK Cosmetics online shop!!

 

More swatches, tutorials, testimonials from participants in the ASK Cosmetics Challenges, helpful consumer information on skin as well as hair care and my favourite topic:  nail care are coming your way in 2013.

 

Hope everyone finished off 2012 with a bang.  Thanks for stopping by,  Lisa M.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Frequently ASKed Questions

What is T.I.P.S.™ exactly?

The abbreviated name “The Incredible Protection System” stands for the main function of our product.  T.I.P.S. Nail Conditioner is a treatment for your nails and cuticles designed to replenish the lipids, which our everyday life has stripped them of.  As the name implies T.I.P.S. protects our nails and cuticles from the damage we expose them to on a daily basis, namely: water, chemical products, harsh cleaning products, waxes as well as silicones found in numerous body care products, etc.

 

Products shown above available via the ASK Cosmetics e-shop.

 

Be sure to check out some of ASK Cosmetics' other outlets:

 

Twitter

 

Pinterest

 

YouTube

 

Facebook

 

Thanks for taking the time to stop by,  Lisa M @nailcareASKlisa

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We've got you covered on CYBER MONDAY

Who doesn't like a good deal now and then?  Even better if it's before Christmas and perhaps someone on your shopping list could be taken care of with a super cool present for under $20.

 

For the first time ever ASK Cosmetics Inc. of Canada is offering an awesome deal on two of their customer top favourites:  TIPS Nail Conditioner and the Contour Nail File.

 

Your savings are tremendous...

Normally 1 x TIPS Nail Conditioner and 1 x Contour Nail File would cost $32.28. 

Now, that might seem expensive, but don't forget 1 bottle of TIPS lasts 6 weeks providing daily manicures & treatments to your nails and cuticles, and the Contour Nail File lasts a lifetime - so, good value for your money when compared to other nailcare items.

 

In addition to the savings on the regular price, there will be no charges for shipping & handling, which means savings $7.50 more.  In total, you can calculate saving approx. $18 - $20.

 

Just remember to enter the promo code "TIPS Stocking Stuffer Set" when ordering via the ASK Cosmetics online shop at http://www.askcosmetics.com/

or when ordering toll-free 1-877-275-5566 simply quote the promo code.

 

For more information on the benefits of both TIPS Nail Conditioner and the Contour Nail File just click here.

 

Stay safe during the holidays.  Thanks for stopping by, Lisa M.

 

HONK IF YOU LOVE OPI!

When it comes to choosing nail polish colours, I find myself in a real dilema.  Nowadays, there are countless brands with so many stunning shades, it makes a polish wearer's life rather challenging, to say the least.

 

Recently I was on a short trip to Naples, where I indulged in purchasing numerous lacquers produced by various manufacturers; ones I can't readily find in my corner of Canada.  It was as if I was in "polish heaven", something my husband did not understand at all.

In any case, I came home with a suitcase full of polishes, and here's the one I would like to showcase today:

 

Coats:  2 applied;

 

Thickness of Polish:  on a scale from 1 (thinnest) to 10 (very thick)  -  this one was a 5 in my opinion;

 

Ease of Application:  It was fantastic to apply.  The brush fans out so nicely and allows for a perfect 3-stroke application.  Not all polish brushes are created equal, but OPI's are really easy to work with.

 

Appeal Factor:  This is another dark shade, similar to the previous one I showed "Stylenomics" by Essie.  For those who prefer the dark, rich lacquer colours this is definitely right down your alley.

I think this deep grape shade will go very nicely with many colours in my wardrobe, all the way from light shades to darker ones as well.

 

As always I finished off my manicure with a treatment of TIPS Nail Conditioner to hydrate my cuticles.

 

 

While supplies last, ASK Cosmetics Inc. is offering an amazing deal on TIPS Nail Conditioner + the Contour Nail File.  For complete details click here:  "TIPS Stocking Stuffer Set" Limited Time Offer

 

Thanks for stopping by, Lisa M.

 

 

 

 

Incredible Deal - Amazing Savings!

ASK Cosmetics is very excited to offer their flagship product, TIPS Nail Conditioner, coupled with the most unique file you will ever try, the Contour Nail File, at an amazing price of $15.99 + free shipping.

 

You would normally pay:  $26.00 (new pricing as of Sept. 1st, 2012) for this set + $7.50 shipping in Canada and the USA, which amounts to $33.50 not including provinical taxes. 

 

If you take advantage of this offer, you will only be paying $15.99 (+ applicable taxes) with NO SHIPPING charges.

 

SAVINGS = $17.50!!!!  

   

***Limited Time Offer While Supplies Last

 

 

Benefits of using TIPS Nail Conditioner:

 

*  it will give your nails the strength and flexibility they need;

*  it will replenish the lipids, that are the "cement" holding your cells together;

*  it will restore the vibrant colours to your nails making them look healthy again;

*  it will improve most nail-related issues:  cracking, peeling, splitting, yellowing, weak, brittle nails with its unique combination of ingredients;

*  it will eliminate hangnails;

*  it will help cuticles to recede naturally;

*  it will treat both your nail tissue and cuticles with moisturization and lipids;

*  it will give your nails the most gorgeous, naturally-healthy appearance possible;

*  it is a fast, easy one-step daily manicure for your nails;

*  it will save your money on other nail products and manicures;

*  it lasts up to 6 weeks (one bottle).

 

 

Benefits of filing with the Contour Nail File:

 

 

*  it will last "forever" as it is made of stainless steel;

*  it has no grit strength;

*  it will not rip, tear or shred the ends of your nails;

*  it is designed to seal them after clipping or cutting;

*  if used regularly it will prevent snagging and tearing of your nails on things;

*  it is curved to match the contours of your nails

(because your nails aren't flat or straight either!)

*  it has 3 ultra-fine filing surfaces for all the surfaces of your nails: 

the end, underneath and on top;

*  it can shape your nails and promotes longer, stronger growth;

*  it is ergonomically designed to be used in both hands;

Basically, it is a one-time purchase!

But it is a good idea to have several laying around the house or in your purse for frequent use.

 

As stocking stuffers, as Teacher Gifts, as BFF surprises, as Spoil Yourself treats, as anything you like - this kit is the ultimate nailcare set.

 

 

How to order:

1.)  You must use the promo code:  "TIPS Stocking Stuffer Set".

2.)  Ordering by phone, simply call toll-free 1-877-275-5566 and state promo code.

3.)  Ordering via online webshop - write promo code in message section.

 

Please note:

This is a limited time offer only while supplies last.

There are very limited numbers of this particular set. 

Free shipping only applies to this set.

Multi-packing is possible.

 

Thanks for stopping by,  Lisa M.

Understanding nails better

Did you realize that.......your nail plates are actually dead cells and contrary to popular belief, they don't breathe.  However, the nail beds (or nail tissue below the nail plates) as well as the cuticles are made up of live cells and they do require oxygen, vitamins and minerals.

I have created a very simple model of how you can imagine your nail to be structured:

 

 

The straws represent the nail plate that consists of several layers of "columns" of straw-like fibers layered on top of one another.  Beneath these columns you can find the nail tissue or nail bed, as some people call it.  In this photo the nail tissue is represented by the sponge.

 

Healthy cuticles produce vibrant healthy-looking nails.

 

 

Before we take a closer look at the straw/sponge model, let's reflect one moment of the function of our cuticles:

1.)  They are responsible putting on the final, top layer of nail fibers.  These fibers are the most exposed layer of fibers.  They need to be healthy, strong, and we would like them to be without any ripples, ridges or unevenness - so as to create a wonderfully smooth nail.  For this reason, we highly recommend not buffing, since this practice diminishes this final, top protective layer.

 

2.)  Cuticles are the body's way of protecting us.  They can be likened to a protective seal put on your nail by your body.  If your cuticles are left alone, which means not pushed back, not cut or clipped, they will prevent bacteria and/or infection from entering our bodies via our nails.  For this reason, we strongly recommend leaving your cuticles alone.  That also means you shouldn't massage, rub or stimulate your cuticles in any way as this causes they to become dry and grow down your nails.

 

3.)  They are a good indication of our overall nail health.  It's quite a simple equation: 

healthy cuticles = healthy nails.

 

4.)  Since cuticles are made up of hundreds of thousands of living cells it is imperative to hydrate and fortify them.  They play a very important role in pushing out the soft, new nail (that begins growing below the skin in the area between your first knuckle and the moon area of your nail).  The healthier they are, the better quality your nails will be.

 

As mentioned above your underlying nail tissue is like a sponge.  Seeing as our nails are 10x more porous than your skin, you can imagine how quickly water enters your nail tissue when your nails are exposed to water.  And, how many times a day do you have your hands in water?  Think about that for a moment.  Every time you expose your hands to water, this sponge-like tissue swells up and then the water evaporates out of the tissue very quickly again.  This constant swelling and shrinking is the #1 cause of dry, weak nails.

 

Anyone can do this experiment at home.  All you need is two pieces of dry sponge, some water and a dish to pour the water into.  It is really quite simple, yet it demonstrates so clearly what happens to our nail tissue every time we have our hands in water.

 

There is one product on the market that has been proven by the California Skin Research Institute to actually penetrate into your nail tissue and cuticles.  And if you consider (from the explanations above) the importance of treating your nail tissue/nail bed as well as your cuticles, then you will fully understand the uniqueness and technology behind this nail conditioner:

 

A simple, fast one-step daily manicure and treatment for your nails.

 

 

Some Benefits of TIPS Nail Conditioner by ASK Cosmetics Inc.

 

*  It is designed to replenish the lipids, which are the "cement" holding your cuticle cells and nail tissue cells together, thus creating strength and flexibility;

 

*It hydrates and nourishes the cuticles, that are so important in achieving and maintaining healthy nails;

 

*It fortifies the nail tissue, and if applied as instructed, it fills the nail tissue with lipids and hydration because it is absorbed by dry nails instantaneously. Due to its molecular structure it is the only nail treatment on the market today that, in fact, penetrates the nail plate doing its goodness to both the nail tissue and the cuticles with each application;

 

*It protects against the drying, weakening effects that water has on our nails by entering the nail tissue BEFORE water can get in (providing TIPS Nail Conditioner is applied before our hands are exposed to water!!).  It is immediately absorbed by the dry nail tissue, thus not allowing water to enter the nail tissue. 

 

For more information about The Incredible Protection System - TIPS as well as the line of healthy, safe cosmetics designed and manufactured directly by ASK Cosmetics Inc. of Canada click here:

 

ASK Cosmetics website and online shop

 

ASK Cosmetics' Pinterest Page

 

ASK Cosmetics YouTube videos

 

Hope you enjoyed reading this post!  Comments are always welcome.  Have a great day, Lisa M.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPI - Meet Me at the Star Ferry

OPI's - Meet Me at the Star Ferry

Happy to say this product exceeded my expectations. 

 

I applied 2 coats which gave me the opacity that I was looking for.  Seeing this shade on my nails made me feel elated, since this particular colour goes well with my skin tone. 

 

There is a hint of sparkly copper that comes through in the sun.  Whereas my nails looked more pink, but an extremely gorgeous, rich pink tone.  I love it and think it should be a staple in anybody's polish collection.

 

It is also a shade that looks attractive on longer or shorter-kept nails.  If offers simple elegance for daytime and just enough glamour for evening wear.  A definite all-rounder!

The application with this OPI’s brush and formula was a dream - no difficulties whatsoever.  Its staying power is great too.  This nail polish is certainly one I will be using a lot in the future.

As always I begin my day by applying TIPS Nail Conditioner and I finish off each and every manicure with a treatment of TIPS as well.

 

Have you tried OPI's Meet Me at the Star Ferry?  Thanks for stopping by, Lisa M.