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subscribe to beauty blog via RSSFor Feet, C’est Chic
July 23, 2010 12:30 pm
Before Bastien Gonzalez was one of the world’s most famous pedicurists, he was a competitive skier. After a serious racing injury landed him in the hospital, the French-born athlete spent six months in physiotherapy, working to rebuild the muscles in his body, especially in his feet. His visits with the hospital’s podiatrist proved so inspirational that when Gonzalez checked out, he decided to pursue the profession himself. Post-PoD training, Gonzalez opened his first office in the Place des Vosges in Paris, where he developed what he calls “the true pedicure”—a medical-grade treatment to improve the feet, nails, and skin. During sessions, Gonzalez actually uses a drill to remove the top layer of nails (which is definitely not something to try at home) and buffs them with various tools until they’re so glossy they sparkle. And then there’s his legendary therapeutic foot and leg massages, rumored to be so good that his Louboutin-clad clientele swears by them on a monthly basis.
Gonzalez now splits his time between pedicure studios in luxe spas in London, Paris, Monte Carlo, Mauritius, Mexico, Dubai, and Cape Town. But those without a jet at their disposal don’t have to suffer with calluses any longer, now that Gonzalez has launched a revolutionary range of feet and nail care products. The nine-piece Révérence de Bastien collection includes a Sensitive Feet Balm made with sage, lavender, and mint to melt tension and arch pain; a Silky Talcum Powder Cool Veil enriched with kaolin to ease inflammation and sweat; Unguent for Nails and Cuticles, which sounds kind of unsexy but actually strengthens weak nails with lovely essential oils; and a Nail Brightness Pearly Buffing Cream, which contains proteins that stimulate cell turnover and, when rubbed over the nails with his special Horn Buffer, brightens the enamel so it appears iridescent—”like jewels,” says Gonzalez. We’re completely mesmerized by the Celeste Leg Shimmer, a dry oil that contains finely ground mother-of-pearl to rehydrate lackluster skin and give it a sophisticated, subtle glow (this is not body glitter, trust us). It’s also scented with an airy blend of bergamot extract, neroli, and lemon to rejuvenate tired muscles. Having Gonzalez work it into our legs and feet himself would be amazing—and perhaps even worth the plane fare—but until then, we’re hoping a certain fiancé might do the honors.
Révérence de Bastien collection is available at the New London Pharmacy, 246 Eighth Ave., NYC, (212) 243-4987; and the Greenwich Hotel, 377 Greenwich St., NYC, (212) 941-8900.
tags: Bastien Gonzalez, Nails, R�v�rence de Bastien
