Arcadia Visit Guides · Element Journal
Which nails should you get? Gel, acrylic, dip, Gel-X or Builder Gel
If you searched "nails near me" in Arcadia, you probably know you want your nails done but not which kind. Each nail type looks different, feels different and grows out differently. Here is a plain guide to the five sets our Arcadia artists do most at Element Nail Bar, 3180 E Indian School Rd, with the starting prices from our current menu.
Gel manicure: color on your own nails
A gel manicure is polish that cures under a lamp, so it stays shiny and chip-free longer than regular polish. It adds no length. It suits you if your natural nails are healthy and you want a clean, glossy finish. Gel manicures start at $45 on our Arcadia menu.
Builder Gel: strength without extensions
Builder Gel is a thicker gel that adds a thin layer of strength over your natural nail. It helps nails that bend or break, and it can also build short extensions. We use CND Builder Gel. A Builder Gel manicure starts at $70, and a Builder Gel full set of extensions starts at $70, with fills from $60.
Gel-X: soft gel extensions
Gel-X uses pre-shaped soft gel tips that are bonded to your nail. You get length and a clean shape quickly, and the set feels lighter than acrylic. Gel-X extensions start at $75.
Acrylic: the classic for length and shape
Acrylic is a powder and liquid that hardens into a strong layer. It holds long lengths and dramatic shapes like coffin, almond and stiletto well, and it can be filled as your nails grow. Color powder full sets start at $60, with fills from $50. Shaping adds $5 for coffin or almond and $10 for stiletto.
Dip powder (SNS): no lamp, lots of color
Dip powder is color powder layered over your nail and sealed. It is strong, has no lamp step, and comes in a wide range of shades. A natural SNS manicure starts at $65, and dip extensions start at $65.
How to choose in one minute
- Want shine on your own nails: gel manicure.
- Your nails bend or break: Builder Gel.
- Want length that feels light: Gel-X.
- Want long, bold shapes you can fill: acrylic.
- Want strong color without a lamp: dip powder.
Not sure? Tell your artist how you use your hands day to day. They will suggest the set that fits.
Booking tips
Walk-ins are welcome when an artist is free. For weekends, evenings, nail art or groups, booking ahead is best. If you need removal or nail art, add it when you book so your artist has enough time.
Questions
Which lasts longer, Gel-X or acrylic?
Both are made to last until your next fill or new set. Acrylic is usually chosen for extra length and bold shapes, Gel-X for a lighter feel. Your artist can help you pick based on your nails.
Is Builder Gel the same as a gel manicure?
No. A gel manicure is color. Builder Gel is a thicker gel that adds strength and can also extend the nail.
Do you take walk-ins in Arcadia?
Yes, based on availability. Booking ahead is best for weekends, evenings and longer services.