Frequently Asked Questions

Products

What products do you use?

We use the best brands like The Gel Bottle Inc (TGB), OPI, Glitterbells, Lycon and many more.

At our nail salon, we believe in using only the highest quality products to provide our customers with the best possible service. We carefully select our nail polish, gel, and acrylic products from top brands in the industry to ensure that they are safe, long-lasting, and provide a flawless finish. We also offer a range of natural and organic products for customers with sensitive skin. Our experienced technicians are trained to use these products with precision and care, ensuring that you leave our salon with beautiful, healthy nails that will last.

Do gels cause allergic reactions?

At our nail salon, we understand that some people may have sensitive skin and can experience allergic reactions to certain nail products. That’s why we take great care in selecting the highest quality gel products that are free from harmful chemicals and have been tested for safety.

Our gels are formulated to be gentle on the skin, and we take every precaution to avoid cross-contamination during application. Our experienced technicians are trained to identify any potential sensitivities and will work with you to find the best products that work for your individual needs. We are proud to offer gel nail services that are not only beautiful but also safe.

The Gel Bottle products have incredibly low reaction rate. In 2022-23, of the 11 million BIAB™ services they had a reaction rate of 0.004%.

Do The Gel Bottle products contain HEMA?

All TGB products have under 20% HEMA concentration level (which falls below the 30-35% recommended limit).

TGB have incredibly low reaction rate (in 2022-23, of the 11 million BIAB™ services had a reaction rate of 0.004%).

Where are the The Gel Bottle products manufactured?

The products are manufactured in the UK, EU and the Far East.

All their suppliers have passed ISO 22716 audit. ISO 22716 is an international standard of good manufacturing practices (GMP) for the cosmetics manufacturing industry

When a product is sold within the EU it legally needs to comply with the strict UK/ EU Cosmetic 1223/2009 regulations – regardless of manufacturing country.

Do you offer HEMA free nail gels?

Yes – we offer Glitterbells Hema free range. Please note that these do not last as long as TGB.

TGB Allergy Statement

Since TGB was born in 2015, the health & safety of our customers & their clients always has and will be our priority. We are a professional brand, selling only to those who are qualified to use our products to ensure products are applied correctly & safely.

Cosmetic products are one of the safest products available to consumers. All cosmetics sold in the UK are regulated by very strict European laws (specifically the EU Cosmetic Products Regulation 1223/2009).

This law requires ALL products sold in the EU to undergo an in-depth safety assessment by an unbiased, qualified cosmetic safety assessor (who specialises in this law) to ensure that the product is safe to use and contains no harmful ingredients. All of this has to happen before the product is ever sold.

However, it is true that almost any substance, natural or man-made can cause a reaction in somebody, somewhere. Some people are even allergic to water! Everybody is different and we may find that one person has a reaction to something that thousands of people use without any problems. For example, some people can eat peanuts safely, whilst some can have severe allergies to them.

Full Statement here:

 

What’s the difference between gel polish and regular polish?

The main difference between a gel manicure and regular manicure is that gel polish needs to be cured using a UV or LED lamp in order to stick to your nails, whereas regular polish adheres by air drying.

A Quick Comparison

 

Regular Nail Polish Gel Nail Polish
Longevity Lasts about a week Can last for around two to three weeks
Price Most drugstore polishes are around £3 – £8 Quality gel polishes usually cost upwards of £7
Drying Process Air dry UV or LED curing
Drying Time >15 minutes <1 minute
Removal Can be removed with a few swipes of acetone or non-acetone nail polish remover Needs to be soaked in acetone nail polish remover for 15 minutes

 

So, which should you choose?

In the end, it’s really down to preference. If you’re someone who doesn’t have the time to constantly be reapplying or touching up your manicure, then gel polish might be a better fit. But if you like to change up your look often, and you’re looking for an affordable way to do so, regular nail polish would be more suitable. 

Wax

Lycon Wax

Lycon wax is made using only the finest resins, natural ingredients and aromatherapy oils, Lycon delivers superior performance, removing stubborn hair as short as 1mm.

Why wax?

⁠Waxing lasts longer and feels smoother than shaving since the hair is removed at the root. It’s an exfoliation process, we remove dead skin cells from the area which is crucial for healthy skin and hair oftentimes grows back slower and finer.⁠

Does Lycon Wax hurt?

Lycon is the world leader in waxing technologies. It’s renowned for being the most pain free waxing system on the market. And is kind even to sensitive skin! The hot wax boasts new generation resins, aromatherapy and Titanium Dioxide, which allows this treatment to deliver a seriously smooth finish. It’s also gluten-free, vegan-friendly and cruel-free.

How does Lycon waxing work?

Lycon Hot Wax is used for Brazilian and Hollywood waxing. It acts as a shrink warp to remove coarse stubborn hair, as short as 1mm, effortlessly. It’s the perfect choice for delicate areas.

The wax, when gently heated, becomes ultra-pliable so that it will not break on removal. The wax gives a pleasant warmth against your skin.

Each wax nurtures and conditions your skin for extra comfort.

Waxing Aftercare

⁠Avoid Hot Baths or Showers: For the first 24-48 hours after waxing, it’s best to avoid hot baths, showers, saunas, steam rooms, or any activity that may cause excessive sweating. Hot water and heat can irritate freshly waxed skin.⁠

⁠Gently Cleanse the Skin: Keep the waxed area clean to prevent infection. Use a mild, unscented cleanser or gentle soap to cleanse the area, and avoid using harsh products or scrubs that may irritate the skin.⁠

Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect the waxed area from sun exposure for at least 24-48 hours after waxing, as freshly waxed skin is more susceptible to sunburn and hyperpigmentation. If you need to be in the sun, use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.⁠

Avoid Scratching or Picking: Resist the urge to scratch or pick at the waxed area, as it can lead to irritation, inflammation, or potential infection. If you experience itching, apply a soothing lotion or aloe vera gel instead.⁠

Avoid Tight Clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing after waxing to prevent friction and irritation on the treated area. Tight clothing can rub against the skin and cause discomfort.⁠

Regular Maintenance: To maintain smooth skin, consider scheduling regular waxing appointments according to your hair growth cycle. This can help to prevent excessive regrowth and maintain the desired results.⁠

What’s the difference between Brazilian and Hollywood waxing?

Brazilian waxing explained: The Brazilian is used to describe the removal of intimate body hair. If you were to wear a bikini then the Brazilian would leave you with a hair-free look. Basically, the hair that may otherwise be seen if wearing swimwear is removed. A great way to feel smooth and confident without being completely bare.

Hollywood waxing explained: While a Brazilian wax leaves some hair, a Hollywood removes all hair completely.

Remember – Our Therapists are all women and professionally trained so you can feel relaxed during your treatment and leave happy!

BIAB

What are BIAB Nails?

BIAB (pronounced by-abb) stands for ‘builder in a bottle’ and was created by British gel nail polish brand The Gel Bottle. It’s basically a nail strengthening gel that can be built up to create a hardwearing, shiny finish. Unlike gel or shellac polishes, BIAB is made of ingredients that work to strengthen and nourish the nail, so it helps to harden your natural nails while you wear it.

BIAB can be used alone, together with extensions or as a base underneath traditional gel polish to add extra strength. It’s available in a range of nude shades, so can be used as a standalone polish or as a great base for nail art.

Who could benefit from BIAB nails?

 

BIAB nails are a great option for anyone looking to grow or strengthen their natural nails. They’re also good for nail biters; the gel is much thicker and stronger than a standard polish, so it’s more resistant to biting. 

Is BIAB good for your nails?

“BIAB can be used in thin layers as a base coat to provide an added layer of strength to any gel polish manicure, however it should be applied correctly as a natural nail overlay,” says Giorgia. “We recommend, BIAB is used to mimic the apex of the natural nail, providing the structure that the nail needs to withstand pressure in its stress point and protection against breakages. Used right, BIAB is great for keeping your nails long, strong and healthy,” she says. 

How long do BIAB nails last?

BIAB tends to last around three to four weeks. You’ll then have to revisit your salon to get them soaked off or infilled. 

What’s the difference between BIAB, gel, shellac and acrylic nails?

Shellac (gel) – With so many nail polish treatments available, things can get confusing. Shellac nails are essentially a specific type of gel nail polish, developed by CND. It’s a liquid form of polish that’s cured under a UV lamp for a longer-wearing finish – but, as any shellac or gel nails enthusiast will know, improper removal can leave your nails feeling weak.

Acrylic nails are created using a liquid monomer and powder polymer, which is mixed carefully by your nail professional. They don’t need curing under a lamp but will require an electric drill to remove them.

BIAB on the other hand is a form of gel polish that has a stronger, more strengthening base. It’s cured under a lamp, with a thicker consistency than gel and is similarly soaked off (but it can take a little longer as the formula is quite tough). The main difference? It doesn’t damage your natural nail underneath. Hallelujah.

What’s the difference between overlay, infill and extensions?

OverlayAnything that is applied on top of your natural nails will be considered an overlay, e.g. using tradition gel, soft gel (such as gelish), acrylic, or even normal nail polishes. Acrylic or gel overlay are usually done to prevent chipping when nails break in between and when adding a few coat of glue doesn’t work anymore

infillFingernails grow at an average rate of 3mm/month and the beautiful designs done will be pushed downwards, hence infills are done by filling in this gap in between to cover up the grown out portion.

ExtensionsExtensions are usually done when a client broke 1 or 2 of her nails and to extend these nails to the same length as their natural nails, or when they want longer nails than usual for an occasion/event.

How do you remove BIAB?

As a soft-gel it’s a soak-off product, However if you’ve used the BIAB shades that require a rubber base coat, it will need filing off. BIAB can either be fully soaked off or the bulk of product can be removed using an E-file before a soak off of the final layers can be carried out.

LVL

What is LVL?

LVL stands for Length, Volume, and Lift. The stunning alternative to eyelash extensions! LVL has been designed to enhance your natural eyelashes by straightening them rather than curling to create the illusion of longer, thicker lashes. 

How long do LVL Last?

LVL can last up 6-8 weeks. 

What is a patch test?

A patch test is a quick skin test used to check if you have any adverse reaction to a possible product used in your treatment. This must be done at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. No treatment will be carried out unless this has been completed first.

Which treatments require a patch test?

A patch test is required for LVL’s and any tinting treatemnt.

Do LVL work on short lashes

Yes, most people with short lashes can get a lash lift.

How Do I Get Started?

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1st Appointment!

We look forward to seeing in on your appointment. Any questions please feel free to ask 🙂

Nail Spa

 51b Pill St, Penarth CF64 2JR
On street parking available
Free parking available at Penarth Leisure Centre

 Mon-Sun: 9.30am – 3pm
Appointment only: 3pm – 6pm
T: 02920 711891    e: hello@nail-spa.co.uk