By the team at The Nail Story, Bawadiya Kalan, Bhopal · Updated
“How long will they last?” is the question that follows every new set out of the door. The honest answer has two parts: how long the extension holds, and how long it looks fresh.
The short answer
A well-done set is durable, but your natural nail keeps growing underneath it. After a few weeks you will see a gap at the cuticle, and the balance of the nail shifts towards the tip. That is why most people book a refill every three to four weeks. Gel refilling at The Nail Story is ₹1,700.
Why extensions grow out
An extension is built on top of your natural nail. As your nail grows, the extension moves forward with it. Nothing is wrong when you see that gap. It is simply time for a refill, where your artist fills the new growth, rebalances the shape and refreshes the finish.
If you leave a set for too long, the weight sits further out on the nail. That makes it more likely to catch, lift or break.
What helps a set last
Most of what decides how long a set lasts happens in the weeks after you leave the studio.
Treat your nails as jewels, not tools
Opening cans, scraping labels, prising lids: this is where most breaks happen. Use the pads of your fingers, a spoon handle or a proper tool.
Wear gloves for wet work
Long soaks in hot water and cleaning products are hard on extensions and on the skin around them. Gloves for dishes and cleaning make a real difference.
Oil your cuticles
A drop of cuticle oil each night keeps the skin around the nail soft and helps the natural nail stay flexible underneath.
Don’t pick or peel
If an edge lifts, it’s tempting to pick at it. Please don’t. Picking tears the top layers of your natural nail. Message us instead.
Come back on time
A refill on schedule keeps the shape balanced and the set strong. You’ll find the rest of our tips in the aftercare guide.
Does the type of extension matter?
A little. Acrylic is usually the most hard-wearing and suits longer, sharper shapes. Gel is flexible and glossy. Soft gel tips such as Gel-X are light and quick. Temporary extensions are designed for a short spell, such as one event. Our guide to gel, acrylic and Gel-X explains each one.
| Extension | Price |
|---|---|
| Acrylic extensions | ₹2,800 |
| Gel extensions | ₹2,500 |
| Soft gel / Gel-X | ₹2,200 |
| Temporary extensions | ₹1,500 |
| Gel refilling | ₹1,700 |
And if something goes wrong?
Chips happen to everyone now and then. If a nail chips after your service, message the studio and book a fix. We repair it free of charge.
Ready for a fresh set?
See prices and real sets on the nail extensions page and add a finish from the nail art menu. Then book a slot.
