If it is your first nail appointment, the service menu can feel confusing: manicure, gel polish, BIAB, hard gel, extensions, removal and add-ons all sound different. The easiest way to choose is to start with your goal rather than the product name.
If you only want neat natural nails
Choose a basic manicure when you mainly want shaping, cuticle care and a clean natural finish without long-lasting gel colour.
If you want colour on your own nails
Gel polish is a good starting point when your natural nails are already reasonably strong and you mainly want longer-lasting colour.
Read BIAB vs Gel Polish if you are unsure how much structure you need.
If your nails bend or break easily
BIAB / Hard Gel Manicure may be more suitable when the natural nails need extra structure. It can be worn short and does not automatically mean long nails.
If you want extra length immediately
Choose Nail Extensions. This is the correct option when you want length beyond your current natural nail, especially for almond, coffin or longer shapes.
If you already have product on your nails
Tell the salon what is currently on your nails. Removal may need extra time and should not be assumed to be included in every service. Our removal guide explains what to book.
If you want French, chrome or nail art
Book the main manicure first, then add the relevant design option if available. More detailed designs need more appointment time than a single colour.
What should you tell your nail technician?
- What product is currently on your nails.
- Whether you want to keep or add length.
- How you use your hands at work.
- Any lifting, breakage or sensitivity.
- Your preferred colour or design.
First visit checklist
Do not peel old product before the appointment, avoid cutting the cuticles aggressively at home, and bring reference photos if you have a specific look in mind.
FAQ
Can the service be changed during the appointment?
Sometimes, if enough time is available. But a full extension set cannot always replace a shorter manicure booking because it requires more time.
What if I genuinely do not know what I need?
Choose the closest service based on your goal and mention your uncertainty in the booking notes. The final recommendation can be adjusted after your natural nails are seen.
Before your first appointment
You do not need to know every product name before coming to the salon. It is more useful to know the result you want: natural and short, extra strength, added length, a specific colour or nail art. If you already have gel, BIAB or extensions on your nails, mention it when booking because removal or maintenance can require extra time.
Avoid peeling old product off at home just to arrive with bare nails. Safe removal is part of protecting the natural nail.
Which service should a beginner choose?
If your nails are already strong and you mainly want colour, gel polish can be enough. If you want more structure on your natural nails, BIAB or hard gel may be a better starting point. If you want immediate extra length, nail extensions are the relevant category. You can compare current options on our Prices page.
How much time should you allow?
A simple manicure is usually faster than extensions or detailed nail art. French, chrome and hand-painted designs can also add time. When possible, book the design or add-on you actually want rather than asking for it only after the appointment has started.
Make the first booking easier
If you still do not know the service name, use our Nail Look Guide. It is designed to narrow down treatment, shape and style before you book.