As a health-conscious mom who has been doing her own nails for years to avoid the toxic products at traditional salons, I was both intrigued and excited to learn that MERAKI Nails and Beauty is a non-toxic nail spa and beauty salon that recently opened at 194 Main Street in Danbury (Northwest corner of Main St. and West St.). I recently had the opportunity to stop in from the hustle and bustle of Main Street to their very relaxing and comfortable salon to have a chat with Karen Torres and Carolann Ruiz (co-founders) and learn more about their vision for the salon and the services they offer.
Interestingly, MERAKI means “the essence of life” — doing the things we love with absolute passion, devotion and pleasure. Their MERAKI philosophy focuses on revitalization and relaxation with an emphasis on non-toxic products. MERAKI offers a variety of services, including non-toxic make-up application as well as classic and gel manicures and pedicures using their nail polishes which are "5-Free" and above, meaning free of the following 5 toxic chemicals: formaldehyde and formaldehyde resin, toulene, DBP (Dibutyl Phthalate), Camphor, and Xylene. They also sanitize, disinfect, and sterilize all of their nail equipment before each use, and use stainless steel, buffers and files for one time use. They go one step further to eliminate the potential for infection by using freestanding pedicure bowls (vs. electronic jet tubs) and disinfecting them with hospital grade disinfectant after every client.
Finally — a salon that “gets it”! I also learned that they offer a “Mini” Meraki Nail Service for kids 10 years old and younger. I haven’t yet taken my daughters to a nail salon (to avoid toxic products and risk of infection) so I am very excited to bring them to Meraki one day soon for their first nail salon experience!
“Mini” Meraki Nail Service (10 years and under)
Mini Manicure- $10
A pampering experience for the little hands that includes trimming, and nail shaping, followed by a complimentary hand massage and optional polish application as well as delicious organic juice.
Mini Pedicure- $15
A soothing service for those little feet that includes trimming, and nail shaping, followed by a complimentary foot massage and optional polish application as well as delicious organic juice.
For more information about Meraki Nails and Beauty, visit https://merakinailsandbeauty.com/ or visit them on Facebook and Instagram. Call ahead to make an appointment: (203) 743-5411.
