Ooh La La Nails is becoming my new fave for neat and customised manicures – and we bet it'll be yours, too.
Junk season might be wrapping up, but nice nails are an all-year-round affair. In fact, with less potential abrasions from partying in the sea, I thought it’s prime time to treat myself with a new set of nails. The Silver winner of “Best Nail Salon in Hong Kong” in our Love Local Awards 2023, Ooh La La Nails has been a popular studio for Russian manicures and pedicures. In fact, it’s one of my ex-colleague Sophie’s go-tos! Two years after her visit, I made my trip to Ooh La La Nails and got ready for some pampering.
A review of the revamped Ooh La La Nails
The studio
A chic boutique nail studio nestled in the buzzing heart of Wan Chai, Ooh La La Nails is helmed by expert nail artist Christy Chan. Having moved between buildings in the bustling area, the salon has put down roots on Hennessy Road in 2023 in a sleek yet cosy new space. Crisp white interiors carry over from previous locations, providing a calm backdrop for the vibrant colours throughout the shop. With Cantopop hits drifting through the studio, I was all set for my first Russian manicure experience.
The pros for Russian manicure in Hong Kong
Even before stepping into Ooh La La Nails, I knew they were experts in Russian manicure – a technique rarely found in Hong Kong. It involves using specialised tools (like electronic files instead of clippers) to shape cuticles, trim nails, and achieve a precise polish. This results in flawless nail art and perfectly clean nail beds with no gaps, even after a week.
As my technician worked her magic on my cuticles and applied the base coat, I was trying to choose my colours – but it proved quite difficult, as there was a dazzling collection of 3,000 nail shades on offer! Finally, I went with Christy’s recommended combo of pastel blue, clear pink, and white polishes, along with some glitter.
At this stage, even though I’d told Christy that I wanted a design “inspired by the sea”, little did I expect the unique piece of art I’ve ended up with! The gradient between the pink and blue was seamlessly done, while the glitter added a subtle bit of bling (just the right amount for me). Although my nails were short and so had a limited surface area, Christy was still able to decorate them with intricate nail art, showing her incredible skill and attention to detail. The design featured mini starfish and seashells, as well as thin lines and patterns that reminded me of the bubbles I’d see along the shore when the waves came rolling in. The cherry on top was the matte white powder that gave a 3D effect and slightly sandy texture – truly bringing the nail art to life.
Fancy a Russian pedicure, too?
If you’ve been wearing heels and sandals all summer like yours truly, don’t miss out on a pedicure treatment at Ooh La La Nails to rejuvenate your feet, too! The Russian pedicure service follows a similar procedure to the manicure, starting with attending to the cuticles and adjusting the nail shape. After completing the art (which matches beautifully with my fingernails), I enjoyed a brief soak, before the technician used a foot file to help remove any dead skin and calluses from my feet.
How do the nails last?
Pretty nail art isn’t difficult to come by nowadays, but durable ones certainly are. That being said, I can proudly tell you that my fingernails were kept as good as new for two weeks, and I have yet to notice any chips or changes to my toenails, even after a whole month. This is partly due to Ooh La La Nails using construction gel (aka builder gel) which follows the natural arc of the nails, enabling smoother finish, better growth, and less damage. It is also, of course, thanks to the professional execution by Christy and her team. Needless to say, I’ll be back!
Ooh La La Nails, Room 2302, 23/F, Bayfield Building, 99 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, p. 5138 3866
