Choosing the Right Manicure: A Guide from The Nail Bar & Beauty, Sunbury

If you've ever loved the convenience of long-lasting gel or SNS nails but noticed your nails feeling weaker afterward, you're not alone. Or maybe you're tired of regular polish chipping after just a few days but worry about the risks of LED lamps. With so many manicure options available today, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for your nails. Let’s break down the most popular choices—SNS, gel, Builder in a Bottle (BIAB), and regular polish—so you can make an informed decision.

The Importance of a Good Manicure

Many people, myself included, realized just how much they missed a professional manicure during lockdown. The joy of having beautifully polished nails really stands out, whether it's the satisfying tap of nails on a keyboard or the break from distractions during an appointment. For those of us whose at-home polish jobs never seem to last more than a day, professional treatments are an irresistible treat.

Now that salons are open and offering more choices than ever—gel, SNS, and the latest trend, Builder in a Bottle—choosing the right option for your lifestyle and nail health can be a challenge.

Your Manicure Options Explained

At The Nail Bar & Beauty in Sunbury, we know that how long your manicure lasts depends on both the type of treatment and how well you care for your nails afterward. Natalie, our experienced nail technician, explains that Builder in a Bottle (BIAB) can last up to four weeks before needing a touch-up. SNS typically lasts about three weeks, and regular polish gives you up to a week of chip-free wear.

So why do some clients still choose regular polish, despite its shorter lifespan? If you enjoy changing your nail color frequently, regular polish is an excellent option. It’s easy to remove at home and gentler on damaged nails. "For clients with fragile nails, regular polish can be a safer, more flexible choice," adds Natalie.

Why BIAB is a Game-Changer

At The Nail Bar & Beauty, BIAB has quickly become a client favorite. This gel-based treatment offers the durability of SNS with the flexibility of gel, all while being much healthier for your natural nails. “BIAB is cured under an LED lamp, just like gel, but without the need for harsh removal every time,” Natalie explains.

Unlike traditional SNS or acrylic nails, which can leave your nails feeling dry and brittle, BIAB strengthens your nails while maintaining their natural health. You simply return for an infill every 3-4 weeks to refresh your manicure and maintain nail health.

Are LED Lamps Safe?

Many clients are concerned about the potential risks of LED lamps, which are used in gel and BIAB manicures. At The Nail Bar & Beauty, we use modern LED lamps that are much safer than older models. The earlier versions emitted broad-spectrum UV light, which raised concerns about long-term exposure. However, today’s LED lamps emit a much narrower UV range and cure nails faster, minimizing any potential risk. “Current research indicates that the exposure time under LED lamps is too short to pose a significant health risk,” Natalie reassures.

Why Professional Manicures Last Longer

Ever wondered why your at-home manicure chips in a few days, but a salon manicure lasts much longer? It’s all about the prep work. At The Nail Bar & Beauty, we take the time to properly file, shape, and buff your nails, ensuring the surface is clean and smooth for optimal polish adhesion. "These steps are often skipped in a rushed at-home manicure," Natalie explains, which is why professional manicures tend to last so much longer.

For those who prefer doing their nails at home, Natalie offers a few pro tips:

1. Ensure your nail plate is clean and dry by wiping it with alcohol or acetone.

2. Avoid letting the polish touch your skin, which can lead to peeling.

3. Apply polish in thin, even layers for better coverage and fewer chips.

Caring for Your Nails

No matter what manicure option you choose, keeping your nails hydrated is key to their health. Natalie recommends daily use of cuticle oil to keep your nails and surrounding skin moisturized, which prevents dryness and helps avoid splitting and chipping.

Taking care of your nails after your appointment is crucial for making your manicure last. Be mindful of exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals and make sure to keep your nails moisturized for maximum strength and durability.

At The Nail Bar & Beauty in Sunbury, we’re committed to helping you find the best manicure for your needs, whether it’s the ease of regular polish, the longevity of SNS, the flexibility of gel, or the strength of BIAB. Whatever your choice, nail health always comes first!