By Clementina Verge
Hands may not be hailed as the official windows to the soul, but they establish visual connections between ourselves and others, sustain us daily through impressive capabilities, often speak on our behalf, and always nurture those we cherish. Nurturing them in return, therefore, is an act of self-love and this is what manicurist Deb Dorfman fosters when clients settle before her in a velvety chair.
Under the glow of a chandelier that adds to the quaint, artistic feel of Byrde + the b—an award-winning, full-service luxury salon in Washington Depot, Dorfman beautifies hands and feet while nourishing skin and nails.
“All my life, this is what I have wanted to do. This is where I want to be,” Dorfman, also a licensed hairdresser, enthusiastically declares. “I am a people person. What I do is intimate: we hold hands and talk and socialize. I help people feel good and look great.”
Her passion ignited in Brooklyn where childhood memories include painting her grandmother’s nails and tweezing her eyebrows. After embarking on a decades-long career in the Empire State, the desire to secure greater academic opportunities for her only son transposed her to Connecticut where two and a half years ago she found a home at Byrde + the b.
Low-toxic products are a distinguishing feature here and Dorfman promises “flawless nails without flawed ingredients.”
The product of choice is Dazzle Dry, a unique four-step vegan system that includes vitamin-induced nail prep, base treatment, lacquer, and a top coat. The allure extends beyond incredible shine; humane and nontoxic, vibrant color sets “rock solid” in just five minutes and lasts two to three weeks.
“It wears like a gel, applies and removes with regular polish remover, but involves no harmful UV lights or chemicals that weaken nails and it doesn’t chip,” Dorfman explains.
On the contrary, a manicure here “transforms nails by helping them grow stronger and longer, and making hands look younger.”
Heated hand treatments, a separate service, are especially valuable during colder, moisture-limited months. A healing cocktail of A, C, and E oils with a boost of vitamin C crystals improve tone, hydrate, and promote collagen production while anti-wrinkle retinol plumps the skin.
Feet thrive from similar nourishment and Dorfman also extends “surgical precision” to pedicures for women and men, buffing, filing, and removing calluses.
Her dedication is not limited to when clients occupy the salon. Whether she sends them home with extra cuticle oil, travel kits, or nourishing products, their nail health and satisfaction is paramount.
“I truly, truly love what I do,” she exclaims.
Between each client, diligent salon cleanings feature hospital-grade products and UV-C LED sanitizing light. In addition to plexiglass dividers, masks, gloves, and facial shields are standard procedure, as are temperature checks and health screening questions.
So whether you are craving the color of Seduction, a sultry Night to Remember, or the subtle appeal of Peacefully Me, gift yourself or loved ones a relaxing and rejuvenating appointment with Dorfman, who leaves hands, feet, and souls happy.
Byrde + the b
10 Titus Road
Washington
860-619-0422
