The lowdown

I’m finally back in the beauty saddle for my first manicure in months. I recline on the body-moulding bed in the sun-filled treatment room and close my eyes as Serena works her magic on my jaded hands. This is sheer bliss!

She applies a customised cuticle softener which has aloe vera for nail and cuticle nourishment, then my fingertips are soaked.

Next, she shapes my nails into the perfect soft square, having pushed back my cuticles and tidied up around the edges. My nail plate is buffed and then two coats of polish are applied with meticulous precision, followed by a topcoat. Serena then massages my hands. I don’t want it to stop.

Downtime
Forty-five minutes, and the polish lasts for a week.

Results
My nails are shining beacons! They are perfectly polished and my hands are supple and soft.

Where to get it
Sydney: Jocelyn Petroni, jocelynpetroni.com. Cost: $80 for the Chanel manicure. Melbourne: Missy Lui (for a similar treatment), missylui.com.au. Cost: $90.

At home

Try my new favourite colour, the super-flattering Chanel Washed Denim (1300 242 635).

Add To Cart

When the revamped Mukti Bioactive Collagen Booster Skin Glow Powder (muktiorganics.com, $105) hit my desk, I was keen to try it. This formula claims to increase collagen levels and in turn to improve skin, hair, nail and gut health. I am taking one dose daily in the perpetual quest for eternal youth.

Ask Stephanie

When should I apply concealer?
Concealer is meant for touch-ups, so first apply your foundation; ideally, it will do most of the coverage. Then use concealer on any trouble spots like the corners of the nose, under the eyes, on blemishes – and blend well. Try Estée Lauder Double Wear Concealer (esteelauder.com.au, $42).

Follow Stephanie Darling on Instagram @mrssdarling. Send questions to stephanie@darlingbeauty.com.au.

This article appears in Sunday Life magazine within the Sun-Herald and the Sunday Age on sale July 12.