Sozo’s Soft Gel Manicure… Nail Art that Lasts!

Ever since moving to Hong Kong 6 years ago, I’ve been drawn in to (ahem, suckered into) pampering myself on a more regular basis than I usually would back home in Toronto.

I’ve tried everything from regular massages to a plethora of hair treatments to eyelash extensions and the most consistent, regular manis and pedis every 2-3 weeks. Yes I confess, I’m a beauty addict. And you, Hong Kong, with your affordable and beautiful spas, have been my enabler!

After having my son Aiden almost two years ago, I made the transition from a regular mani and pedi to being a diehard soft-gel-only kinda gal. The soft gel manicure life lasts much longer than regular polish and for this non-stop busy mama, it is the answer to chip-free nails and looking put together.

I love experimenting with different designs and I love the fact that you can leave your nail appointment right away without having to wait for what seems like hours for your nails to dry. Biggest pet peeve of a regular mani? Leaving the salon and chipping your nails right when you step outside.

Recently, I’ve had the chance to step away from my busy schedule and indulge in some R&R at Sozo Hair Design in Central. Tucked upstairs in the World Wide Commercial Building is Sozo’s beautiful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Wyndham Street below. I was introduced to the lovely Tammy Au, a multiple award-winning, soft gel by Gelish trained manicurist who would be taking care of my hands that day!

Using popular products like OPI, Jessica, CND, Gelish and other high quality Japanese brands, Tammy is an artist when it comes to your nails, aka her canvas. As she was prepping my nails for the soft gel, she was telling me that her client’s nail health is just as important as the design. Using the proper equipment and technique, she made sure my nails were pampered, buffed and trimmed perfectly before applying the soft gel.

I had come prepared with a rough idea of a design (thanks Pinterest!) I wanted to try but if you’re stuck on ideas, Tammy is the perfect person to ask for recommendations. She has won multiple international awards with her airbrush technique and outstanding drawing skills. From subtle classic designs to the bold and trendy kind, whatever you have a taste for, Tammy can deliver.

I wanted to go for a marbled look and was amazed at how the marble effect came alive as she painted it on by hand using a thin brush and sponges. This was the first time I’ve gotten my nails done and felt like I was watching an artist at work! Not only was she careful with the design, she made sure I was completely happy with each nail before moving forward to the next nail.

When I was finished, I was very happy with her interpretation of the marbled gel mani! Tammy guaranteed 3-4 weeks of life for this design which is better than any old regular manicure that usually lasts me under a week. As I write this, I’m already into week 2 and the mani is still going strong with tons of compliments to the design, I might add!

After the wonderful manicure, I was pampered into the second part of the session: the hair wash and blow out! Using Kevin Murphy products, I was treated to a relaxing shampoo, conditioner and head massage treatment during the wash. This was probably one of my favourite parts of the whole pampering session.

I had the privilege of getting my hair styled by hair veteran Billy Lee who has an impressive resume working at premier salons in the Peninsula Hotel, Il Colpo Group and The Firm. He now brings his experience and talent to the clients at Sozo.

Before applying heat to my hair he used a hair serum by Elujuda. He took my normally straight hair and curled it in for a different look. It was definitely something different from what I’m used to but I loved how the curl held it’s shape throughout the day and into the next day. I love a great hair blowout that lasts long!

Sozo is currently offering a very special deal for our Sassy Mama readers: Receive 20% off for a first-time visit for a gel manicure and pedicure, and 15% off for a first-time visit for any hair service. Simply mention “Sassy Mama” when you make your appointment to receive the discount!

Whether you have an event coming up or just need a bit of indulgence and rest from the kids, Sozo is worth a try to get your nails and hair pampered!

Sozo Hair Design, 3/F, Worldwide Commercial Building, 34 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.sozohairdesign.com/contact

Monday-Friday: 10am – 8pm
Saturday: 9:30am – 7pm
Sunday: CLOSED