Gel and hard gel sound alike, and both leave a glossy finish, but they do different jobs. Here is how to tell which one you need.
Gel: colour that lasts
Gel is a coloured coat painted onto your natural nails in thin layers, each one cured under a lamp. It sets straight away, keeps a high gloss and resists chipping far better than ordinary polish. It usually lasts two to three weeks.
It suits you if your nails are already the length you like and you want a colour that stays neat.
Hard gel: strength and length
Hard gel is a building gel. It gives the nail real structure, so it can reinforce thin or weak nails, or lengthen short ones into the shape you want, before your colour goes on top.
It suits you if your nails break easily, if you want more length, or if you love the longer shapes such as almond and coffin.
Keeping it fresh
Both grow out with your natural nail. A refill fills the new growth at the base and rebalances the shape without starting over; with hard gel, a refill every two to three weeks keeps the nails strong.
Taking it off
Please do not peel or pick your gel off: peeling can lift the top layers of your natural nail with it. Book a removal instead, and your artist will take it off carefully.
Still deciding?
Tell us about your nails and the look you want when you book. Your artist will recommend the one that suits your nails best.
Questions we are asked
How long does gel last?
Usually two to three weeks, depending on how quickly your nails grow and how you use your hands.
Do I need a removal before a new set?
If you are still wearing gel, yes: book a gel removal before your new set so it comes off safely.
