Frequently Asked Questions
What is acrylic?
Acrylic is a resin made of powder and liquid. It is an enhancement that is applied to your nails to make them stronger and offers more support for extended length and an opaque finish.
What is gel polish?
Gel polish is a premium nail polish that cures under a LED lamp. Gel polishes are super high gloss, flexible yet durable, it dries quickly and cures perfectly dry too!
When applied on natural nails, they are the lightest, most comfortable/nail friendly option and are longer-lasting than normal polish.
Please note that due to the flexibility of gel polish, it cannot be used to extend nail length. However, if used on top of powders, you still have the benefits of a fast-drying, a high-gloss finish and durability, helping them look fresher and last longer.
What is Builder gel and how does it differ from gel polish?
Builder gel also cures under a LED lamp and is used on natural nails. It provides a thicker, stronger support than gel polish, which is thinner, but both have different degrees of thickness and flexibility. Builder gel can be used to helpm nurture he growth of natural nails, it can hold small cracks/splits but we would not recommend this product for extending.
What’s the difference between gel polish and Shellac?
Gel polish and Shellac are essentially the same thing. Shellac is a brand of gel polish. We think gel polish is one of the best inventions for the nail industry. They are super high gloss, durable, cure perfectly dry and on the whole, longer-lasting than normal polish.
How often should I get my nails done?
On average, we recommend every 2-3 weeks depending on your lifestyle, nail growth rate and preference. Visit our nail aftercare page for tips on maintenance and how to prolong the life of your nails.
Do you accept card?
Yes. We accept cash and card payments - whichever is most convenient for you. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Can I book or cancel via telephone?
We would prefer bookings and cancellations to be made online to manage expectations and for transparency. This would help us look after, and deliver a more dedicated experience to, our clients as well as, keeping the telephone line free for emergencies. You can easily check, reschedule and cancel your appointment via your confirmation email.
However, if you are having any difficulties, please do call and we would be delighted to help you.
Do you allow walk-ins?
Appointments take priority. We run by appointments and would advise all clients to pre-book their visit. This way, we can better prepare and manage treatments.
I’m running late, can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?
We understand that life happens, so if you are running late, please do let us know and we will do our best to accommodate. If you are more than 10 minutes late, this may result in the appointment being cancelled and subject to cancellation fee.
We kindly request that you reschedule/cancel your appointment no less than 24 hours prior.
Can I request a specific technician?
Yes. Here at The Nail Group (TNG), all of our technicians are qualified and trained to deliver treatments to TNG methods and standards. Should you wish to express a preference for a technician, you can do so by choosing their name when booking.
I have a medical condition/allergy, how do I let you know?
Please feel comfortable to share this with us. It is important for us to identify any health and safety considerations and we might be able to help you further.
When booking an appointment, there will be an opportunity for you to specify any medical/skin conditions and allergies prior to confirmation.
Do you use the e-file on natural nails?
We encourage all clients to embrace and nurture their natural nails but understand that sometimes, an enhancement is preferred. If you are having acrylic applied, it is important to lightly etch the nail plate so that it can adhere to the nail. We are very particular about excessive filing of the natural nail and do not use the e-file for any natural nail treatments unless absolutely necessary/requested.
Can I bring a friend/family member with me?
There is limited waiting space at the salon and all waiting areas are reserved for customers purchasing a treatment from TNG. We kindly request that clients receiving treatments come without guests.
Can I eat in the salon?
Kindly note that this is a food-free work space.
How do I apply for a position at The Nail Group?
Please get in touch with us via email to careers@thenailgroup.co.uk and we will get back to you. Visit our careers page.