Lately, whenever I turn on the fan (not even the AC necessarily), a tangy smell like Elmer's School Glue or caulk comes out of the vents. The mechanics at Firestone don't recognize the smell.
Many salon workers face low wages, so tipping is their means of making ends meet. (And on that note, if you suspect your salon has poor conditions for its employees, report it to your local public advocate's office.) Tip 20% for a standard manicure, more if you feel your service was exceptional.
Gel manicures are harder and tougher than regular polish. Available in limited colors (my salon had about 15) the manicurist trims and files your nails like a typical manicure. Next he or she will apply one coat of the gel nail polish. The gel polish is dried under a UV light for a minute or two repeating two to three times.