Bride

Exquisitely elegant nails are an absolute must for any bride-to-be. Whether clutching a bouquet of nosegays or showing off a dazzling diamonds solitaire, a bride's hands are expected to be soft, stylish and feminine - no less than perfect. But what good is even the most expensive manicure when it chips and peels just moments before her walk down the aisle?

Luckily for brides everywhere, salons like "5th Avenue Beauty and Spa" (585 5th Ave., between 47th and 48th Streets) have a secret weapon and are ready to help. Cracked, damaged nails are rapidly becoming a thing of the past, thanks to the longer-lasting ultraviolet manicure. The process – which takes only 40 minutes – is designed to keep nails durable, preserving their strength and shimmer for up to eight weeks.

The bride who undergoes UV treatment can expect a magnificent manicure with minimal stress. In the day leading up to her big day, she is free to take a very "hands on" approach – literally. Whether she’s arranging centerpieces, taking care of last-minute household chores or preparing a pre-ceremony dinner for her hubby, the UV bride can remain active without worrying about nicks, chips and broken tips.

Steven Kand, owner and proprietor of "5th Ave. Beauty", calls the cosmetic treatment"a miracle for brides everywhere," and he should know. After 12 years in the industry, he’s seen thousands of trends come and go. But nothing, he claims has been quite so popular as the UV process.

"UV gel is the best," Kand said. "It’s magic. The nails stay strong and shiny throughout a two-month period. Laundry, cooking – whatever [the bride] has to do – she’ll be fine."

At salons across the country, nails are first given a standard permanent French Manicure, usually in shades of pink and white – what Kand calls "the bridal uniform." Next, they are treated with a clear UV gel compound and cured for a few minutes under an ultraviolet lamp. The lamp’s rays cause the gel to warm and set, encasing and protecting the manicure. The result is nothing short of bewitching: 10 shimmering fingernails, as healthy and dependable as they are stunning.

These new UV-cured nails are welcome alternative to acrylic-based products, which can cause discoloration and long-term damage. Unlike acrylic, the UV gel leaves the nail unspoiled and enduringly beautiful. It's no wonder then that Kand and all his staff at "5th Ave. Beauty" have seen such as unprecedented surge of interest in the treatment. Why should any woman waste her time (and money) on a minuteman manicure? The UV treatment is fast, long-lasting and durable; absolutely essential for all brides – past, present and future.