First Look Fridays: Celebrity Manicurist Melissa Bozant

Celebrity manicurist Melissa Bozant is no stranger to Hollywood's A-list. She's done the nails of everyone from Angelina Jolie to Jennifer Hudson! Read on to find out how she made false nails when she first got her start, which top coat she can't live without, and so much more.

When did you first become interested in beauty, and what led you to become a manicurist?
I was born in Baton Rouge and moved to Los Angeles at the age of 10. My family owned and operated their own salon where my aunt was a cosmetologist and my aunt and cousin were manicurists. I was an art major -- loving the fascination with paint and color, it was very easy for me to choose nails as my first passion. I would create false nails out of Elmer's glue.

What are your favorite nail trends of the moment?
The nail trends I look forward to are the exaggerated half moons and the fun glitter polish and stones. I so love anything that has glitter.

What are your top 5 favorite nail products?
1) Illamasqua has this awesome hot pink nail color (Collide Nail Varnish) that is to die for.

2) China Glaze Ruby Pumps: It gives that added touch to any color toes or hands.

3) Nails Inc. Magnetic Polish is a big hit this year.

4) It's So Easy Nails Stripe-Rite: It's the best for creating great designs

5) Seche Ridge Filling Base Coat and Seche Vite Top Coat: The best for a long lasting manicure.

What are your top 3 nail tips?
1) Always use rich oil for the cuticles.

2) When drying the nails, let polish set for 3-5 minutes. Then take nail tips, lightly dip in a cold dish of water to seal polish.

3) Always keep a pumice in the shower -- Checi Pro is what I use. Any one will do but nickel-plated would be the best kind, they don't rust.

Being a manicurist must be fun, but what do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time I have started back to my private flying lessons again. I love to fly, I love to travel. I participate in charity events for breast cancer awareness and the Step Up Women's Network, motivating and inspiring young teens to stay focused and stay in school.