Gel manicure and basic manicure, done with care

What is a gel manicure?

A gel manicure is a full manicure finished with gel polish instead of regular lacquer. Each thin coat is cured under a lamp, so your nails leave the chair completely dry, with no smudges on the way to the car.

Gel holds its shine and resists chips far longer than regular polish, which makes it a favorite for busy weeks, travel and special events. When it is time for a change, our team removes it with a gentle soak-off. Read more in our guide to gel manicure vs regular manicure.

Basic manicure or gel manicure: which should you choose?

Choose a basic manicure if you like to change colors often, and a gel manicure if you want your color to stay put. Both include the same careful prep, so the difference is mostly the finish.

• Basic Manicure, $25: nail shaping, cuticle care, massage and regular polish. Easy to change at home and a good fit for a weekly refresh.
• Gel Manicure, $40: the same prep with gel polish cured under a lamp. Glossy, chip resistant and dry the moment you leave.

If you want extra length or strength, take a look at Gel-X nails or builder gel nails.

What happens during a manicure at Nail Shadow?

Every manicure follows the same unhurried routine, with sterilized tools and a fresh liner for every guest. Here is what to expect in the chair:

1. You choose a color from the polish wall.
2. Your licensed technician removes old polish, then shapes and files your nails to the length and shape you like.
3. Cuticles are softened and neatly tidied, and the nail surface is gently buffed.
4. Hands are finished with lotion before polish goes on.
5. Color is applied in thin, even coats. For gel, each coat is cured under a lamp, then sealed with a glossy top coat.

Can I add nail art to a manicure?

Yes. Hand-painted nail art can be added to your manicure. Many guests bring inspiration photos, and your technician will talk through what will work on your length and shape.

For chrome, cat-eye, ombre and detailed designs, see our nail art page, or read our French manicure guide for ideas.

How do you make a manicure last longer?

The simplest way to make a manicure last is to treat your nails like jewels, not tools. A few small habits go a long way:

• Wear gloves for dishes and cleaning.
• Apply cuticle oil daily to keep the skin around your nails soft.
• Avoid picking or peeling gel. Let us remove it at the salon instead.
• Book your next visit before the polish starts to lift or grow out.

Our guide on how to make your manicure last has more tips.

Where can I get a manicure in Atlanta?

You can visit Nail Shadow at either of our two salons: Buckhead in the Peachtree Battle shopping center and Kennesaw in Kennesaw Walk. Both are open Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 7 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. Booking ahead is best. Find the salon nearest you on our locations page.