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When applied and removed correctly, gel polish is perfectly safe. The key is professional removal, never peel it off! That's exactly what our soak-off removal service is for. Proper technique protects your nail bed every single time.

Yes. Professional gel products are safe as they are cured and do not absorb into the bloodstream. If you are sensitive to scents during pregnancy, just let me know. I ensure my workspace is well-ventilated for your comfort.

Yes. Changes in hormones (due to pregnancy, thyroid issues, or medication) can change the oil levels in your nail beds. This can sometimes cause gel to lift sooner than expected. If you notice a change in your retention, we can adjust our prep routine to help.

If you see a green tint (often called a "greenie"), it is usually a bacterial pocket trapped under old lifting product. If you see yellow, thick, or crumbling nails, it may be a fungal infection. For your safety, I cannot apply gel over these areas; the product must be removed and the nail should heal or be treated by a medical professional.

If a nail is freshly ripped into the skin or bleeding, we must wait for it to fully heal before applying gel. Applying chemicals to an open wound can cause painful allergic reactions or infections.

When you peel or rip off your gel, you are pulling away the top 2–3 layers of your natural nail plate. This leaves your nails thin and sensitive to heat and cold, and makes it much harder for future gel sets to stay on.

If you can't make it to the salon, follow these steps:

1. Gently file the shiny top layer of the gel until it's matte.
2. Soak cotton pads in 100% pure acetone and place them on your nails.
3. Wrap each finger tightly in foil and wait 15 minutes.
4. Gently slide the gel off with a wooden stick. If it doesn't move, soak for another 5 minutes. Never scrape or force it.
5. Wash your hands and apply plenty of cuticle oil immediately.

It is the most important part of your aftercare! Cuticle oil keeps the gel flexible (so it doesn't crack) and keeps your natural nail hydrated and healthy underneath. Use it daily; morning and night if you can.

The nail world is huge, and different techs specialize in different systems based on their style and your nail needs. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Protein Base: A reinforced soft gel with added vitamins. It provides extra flexibility and strength for weak nails that tend to bend or peel.
• Hard Gel (Mousse Gel): A high-strength, rigid gel that acts as a "shield" over the natural nail. Perfect for growing out long nails without snapping. Must be professionally filed · not soaked off.
• BIAB (Builder In A Bottle): A brand name for soak-off builder gel. I use Mousse Gel and Protein Base instead of BIAB · different brand, same goal: structure, strength, and a plump natural look.
• Acrylics: A liquid-and-powder system. Very traditional, very hard, and has a distinct chemical scent. I don’t offer this · I prefer the odorless, flexible nature of gels.
• PolyGel / Acrygel: A hybrid "paste" combining acrylic strength with gel curing. A good middle ground.
• Gel-X: Full-coverage soft gel tips for instant length. Usually soaked off and replaced each visit rather than filled.

I specialize in structured gel systems, Protein Base, Hard Gel Overlays, Sculpted Extensions, Dual Form Extensions, and all levels of nail art from solid colour to full masterpieces. Every service is built around your nail health first. Check the Services page for the full menu.

Hard Gel is the "heavy duty" option. Unlike regular polish, it cannot be soaked off with acetone, it must be professionally filed. It creates a rigid shield over your natural nail, so it’s perfect if you’re heavy-handed or if your nails usually chip within a week. If you want to grow your nails long and strong without snapping, this is the one.

Every tech has a different "recipe" of products and filing techniques. Mixing products from different salons can sometimes cause lifting or reactions because not all brands work well together. Once you find a tech whose style and product choice work for your body chemistry, sticking with them ensures the best long-term health for your nails; and means I get to know your nails personally and adjust over time!

Yes; all products used at The Nail Lab are from Indigo Nails, a premium professional brand that is committed to allergen-conscious, low-toxin formulations. Their products are odorless and formulated to minimise common irritants found in cheaper gel products. If you have a known sensitivity or allergy to nail products, please let me know when booking so I can take extra care with your appointment.

Gel (both soft and hard) is more flexible than acrylic, it moves with your natural nail instead of snapping. It’s also completely odorless, which makes your appointment a much more comfortable experience. If you prefer a lightweight, natural feel with a glass-like shine, gel is the clear winner.