Rescue Your Nails Paperback – May 5, 2008

I picked up this book at my local Borders store and, after skimming through it, I became instantly hooked at the way it engages the reader in the complex topic of self-achievement of the perfect manicure and pedicure. I have always been a fan of doing my own nails and hardly ever visit a salon; however, I had never achieved such wonderfully clean and professional results until now. With glossy photographs and an easy to read layout, nail expert Ji Baek has given us the "secret" to always having the most glamorous-looking hands and feet.Originally from South Korea, Baek was a musician who eventually got a condition in her fingers which precluded her to continue playing. It was then when she launched herself into research for her dream of becoming a "nail stylist" (of sorts). She runs the "Rescue Beauty Lounge" store in New York City, and has her own brand of nail polish, bath line and tools. Thanks to the step by step instructions, which are accompanied by excellent graphics and photos, one can finally say good-bye to the days of ugly looking hands and feet, as Ms. Baek's new book, "Rescue your nails" is the surefire ticket to fantastic, self-made manicures and pedicures. Throughout it, there are discussions on color theory, tools of the trade (including a very practical shopping list), suggestions and considerations for choosing a nail spa, as well as Ji's very own, proven program for NBA (Nail Biters Anonymous).A few things that I picked up from the book go from Baek's insistence in sterilization of the tools after each use, even when the usage has been at our own home - the idea made me run to my own manicure-pedicure kit and sterilize it right then and there (something, I'm ashamed to say, I had never done before); to the attention to detail and thought behind every color of nail polish in her line, with one in particular called "Underwear", that instantly caught my attention and cannot wait to try - a neon white which can be worn alone or underneath other colors to "spark" their brilliance in a unique way.As I get familiar with performing all the right steps to perfect manicures and pedicures at home, I am keeping the book next to my kit in the bathroom, since I do not want to miss any steps when performing them. The author claims in the cover that she can save the reader up to $1,080 per year in nail care. I have tried the techniques and they feel - and look - extremely professional. As for the savings, well... it is just an added bonus.

About a year and a half ago, I gave up on the idea of having a DIY manicure that could last more than a day. I seriously would spend an hour painting my nails-nail polish is fun, but not THAT fun- just to have it chip in about the same time! I really love nail art too, but what`s the point if the polish doesn`t last, right? I also could never figure out how to file my nails properly-adding insult to injury when my manicure literally shredded to pieces! I was browsing in my library one day when I found this book, by the famed manicurist Ji Baek, the first to open a spa dedicated entirely to nails. Not only did I find the intro to be witty and humorous (although the first few pages were ripped out of my library copy-what does that tell you?), but the steps were refreshingly simple, while still obviously coming from a pro. There are no requirements for fancy products, as she tells you how to whip up your own concoctions, and she breaks down basic steps that most pros assume you already know. An added gem is the section on NBA ("Nail Biters Anonymous" as she calls it) a foolproof plan that I am currently trying to rehabilitate my inseperable-from-his-thumbnail brother. Thanks to Ms. Baek, I can now do my nails-and have them fully dry- in 30 minutes. I`m not afraid of my feet anymore. And my manicure? Five days strong.

****This book is chock full of basic information about manicures and pedicures, covering everything you'd need to know just starting out (for example, if you were a teen). It is also good for older people like myself who haven't taken care of their nails for decades and now want to start doing so. This is very basic information here, but I needed it, especially for information about how to care for my cuticles, how to pick a shape when filing your nails, and how to deal with problems.The book also covers taking care of your hands and feet, troubleshooting nail problems, nail biting, and finding a professional nail salon that is safe. It is a quick and easy read. The information probably is on the Internet, but it was great having everything all in one place. There are lots of illustrations and the book is a quick read and a good reference too.Recommended for beginners to nail care.****

i'm pretty lucky to have naturally long and healthy nails, still i enjoyed reading through the information in this book. the author explains every aspect of nail care imaginable. there are lots of good photos and step by step of manicures and pedicures. she also addresses problems like corns. she emphasizes the importance of exfoliation and moisturizing. as another reviewer commented much of what is here is "common sense" but i still found it a good reminder with some new information. i was so inspired after reading through it that i gave myself a wonderful home pedicure and i'm going to commit to doing it more often. my feet feel great today!

The writing style is very informal and wordy (think: 'girlfriend talk') to the point that I disagree that the contents warrant a book. I find Ji Baek's blog and youtube tutorials to be more worth my time and perusal than room on my bookshelf. For instance, she doesn't explain the differences between acetone and alternative polish removers. There is also very little on methods for improving your polishing skills. The most a subject is addressed is on the importance of sterilizing your tools. Rescue Beauty's line of products feature heavily throughout. This is not a reference book.I didn't let this affect my rating, but not noticing this was a "bargain book" or knowing what that meant before I received it in the mail, I was upset about the sticker residue all over the spine. Now I've learned my lesson to look for that before I buy Amazon books.

ok, I already knew most of what was in the book

As a reformed nail biter of 40 years I have never had nails that I could be proud of. Now I want to know how to love my nails and show them off. This book with its clear photos and step by step guides is just what I need. It even has a chapter for people in biting recovery.

If you love nails, you'll love this book. Great reference book for fans of the talon.

One of the best nail care books around.

Not worth buying would not recommend