I can’t stop staring at my nails after having them manicured at Mindy’s Nails and Tan. My nails went from being misshapen, rough, and embarrassing to smooth, neatly filed, and colorful. Now I’m proud to show them off.

Mindy’s offers a variety of services including manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, and gel and acrylic nail treatments. Mindy’s also has tanning beds.  A one-time tan is $6, a month of tanning is $50, and six tanning sessions with no expiration date are $30. High school students, with their parents’ permission, can tan and receive a discount on the month of tanning.

Mindy’s signature service is giving nail designs. They have any design that one can imagine, from zebra stripes to the Ravens’ mascot. Designs on two nails cost $5, while designs on every nail cost $15.

I decided to simply get my nails painted light pink. However, I upgraded to get the shellac manicure. At $30, it costs over twice the price for a normal manicure, which is $12, but it is worth it because the polish is said to not chip for over two weeks. My nails have yet to chip after a few days, even after working at an ice cream shop, where my nails often take a harsh beating.

The manicurist did a great job with my mangy nails. She gently cut my cuticles and filed, buffed and painted my nails. She didn’t talk much with me, but I didn’t mind at all. “The Millionaire Matchmaker” was on the TV in the salon, so I had something to occupy myself with.

The owners and staff of the salon were very friendly, and Mindy’s was clean for the most part. I noticed some nail dust, but I did not see any large or worrisome amounts of dust, dirt, or stains. I felt comfortable getting my nails done there, as I’m sure most people would.

I enjoyed my experience at Mindy’s and plan to go back. Keeping up my nails will be made easier with Mindy’s reasonable prices and good service.

Mary Kate Luft is an A&E Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.