Nail Extensions: Everything You Should Know Before Getting Them
Long, neat and perfectly shaped nails look beautiful, but not everyone has the patience to wait for their natural nails to grow. Nail extensions solve this problem. Whether it is for a wedding, a party, a festival or simply for your everyday look, they instantly add length, shape and polish to your hands.
At Sneha Bahekar’s Nail Art Studio in Wakad, PCMC, we do nail extensions, gel overlays, gel polish, refills and removal, along with a wide range of nail art. In this blog, I will explain the types of extensions, the cost, the process and aftercare, so that you can decide with confidence before your first appointment.
What Are Nail Extensions?
Nail extensions are artificial nails built over your natural nails to add length, strength and shape. They are different from regular nail paint or gel polish, which only colour your existing nails. With extensions, you can choose your own length, shape and design.
They are especially useful if you have:
- Short or weak nails
- Broken or uneven nails
- A habit of biting your nails
- A special event coming up, such as a wedding or party
Types of Nail Extensions:
- Acrylic Nail Extensions: Made with a liquid and powder mix that hardens into a strong nail. Acrylic is durable and good for longer lengths, but it needs proper filing and careful removal.
- Gel Nail Extensions (Soft Gel Extensions): Gel extensions look lighter and more natural than acrylic. They are cured under a UV or LED lamp and have a glossy finish. They are a good choice if you want a soft, natural look.
- Polygel Extensions: Polygel is a mix of acrylic and gel. It comes in a thick, putty-like form, is easy to shape and feels lightweight on the nails. Many people like it because it is flexible and gives a smooth finish.
- Press-On Nails: Press-ons are ready-made nails that are stuck on with glue or adhesive tabs. They are quick and temporary, which makes them useful for a one-time event, but they do not last as long as acrylic or gel extensions.
Not sure which one to pick? Choose acrylic for strength and length, gel or polygel for a lighter feel, and press-ons if you want a quick, temporary look. At the studio, we will guide you based on your nails and your needs.
Nail Extensions vs Gel Overlays vs Gel Polish:
Prices are starting rates and may change, so please confirm at the time of booking.
Benefits of Nail Extensions:
- Instant length: no need to wait months for your nails to grow.
- Neat, uniform shape: all ten nails look even and well finished.
- Hides flaws: broken, uneven or bitten nails can be covered.
- Perfect base for nail art: designs look cleaner on well-shaped nails.
- Long-lasting: with proper care, they stay for a few weeks.
Things to Know Before Getting Nail Extensions:
- Check your natural nail health. If you have a fungal infection, an injury or any skin problem around the nails, please get it treated first.
- Allergies are possible. Some people are sensitive to acrylic or gel products. Tell your nail artist if you have had a reaction before.
- Choose a length that suits your routine. Very long nails look stunning, but they can be inconvenient for daily work, typing or cooking.
- Refills are necessary. As your natural nails grow, a gap appears near the cuticle. A refill is usually needed every 2 to 3 weeks.
- Budget for upkeep. Along with the first set, plan for refills (starting from ₹1,399) and removal (₹550).
Popular Nail Shapes:
- Almond: slim and elegant, makes fingers look longer
- Square: classic and strong, easy to maintain
- Squoval: square with soft, rounded edges, very comfortable for daily use
- Oval: soft and natural, good for beginners
- Coffin (ballerina): trendy and bold, great for nail art
- Stiletto: dramatic and pointed, best for statement looks
As a general guide, shorter shapes are more practical for daily use, while longer shapes suit weddings and parties.
Nail Art Ideas for Extensions:
Extensions give you a perfect canvas for nail art. Some popular designs include:
- French and ombre
- Chrome and metallic finish
- Cat eye and marble
- Glitter ombre and rhinestone art
- 3D art and Swarovski designs
- Matte finish and neon colours
For brides and festive occasions, soft nude, pearl, gold and red tones with delicate detailing always look graceful. You can see more designs in our Nail Art gallery.
What Happens in a Nail Extension Session?
- Consultation: we discuss your preferred shape, length, colour and design.
- Nail preparation: nails are cleaned, shaped and prepared properly for better grip.
- Application: tips or forms are applied and the extension is built over your nail.
- Shaping and finishing: the nails are filed into your chosen shape and smoothened.
- Colour and nail art: your selected colour or design is done and sealed.
The time taken depends on the type of extension and the design you choose.
How Long Do Nail Extensions Last?
With good care, nail extensions usually last around 2 to 4 weeks before a refill is needed. How long they last depends on:
- Your daily work and how much you use your hands
- How often your hands come in contact with water
- How fast your natural nails grow
- The quality of the product and the application
Please note that results can vary from person to person.
Aftercare Tips:
- Do not use your nails as tools to open packets, cans or stickers.
- Wear gloves while washing utensils or cleaning the house.
- Apply cuticle oil regularly to keep the skin around the nails soft.
- Do not pick, bite or peel any lifting part of the extension.
- If an extension feels loose or water is getting trapped, visit the studio at the earliest instead of fixing it at home.
- Come for refills on time, preferably every 2 to 3 weeks.
How to Remove Nail Extensions Safely?
Never pull or rip off your extensions at home. This can peel off layers of your natural nail and leave them thin, painful and weak.
Always get them removed by a professional, who will gently file and soak them off without damaging your nails. At our studio, removal starts from ₹550. If possible, give your natural nails a short rest between two sets so that they can recover.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Going to an untrained artist or an unhygienic place
- Choosing a length that is too long for your nail bed
- Ignoring lifting or water trapped under the extension
- Skipping refills and letting the nails grow out too much
- Removing extensions on your own
Nail Extensions for Brides:
Hands are always in focus on the wedding day: in photographs, during rituals, when applying the ring and when showing off your mehendi and bangles. That is why many brides choose nail extensions.
A few tips for brides:
- Book your nail appointment a few days before the wedding, so that everything is neat and fresh.
- Choose a shape and colour that matches your outfit and jewellery.
- Keep the length comfortable, since you will be handling many things during the functions.
- Mention it to your makeup artist and nail artist well in advance so that your timings are planned properly.
For design inspiration, you can also read our blog on Bridal Nail Art Ideas.
Why Choose Sneha Bahekar’s Nail Art Studio?
With 6 years of experience as a makeup artist in Wakad, PCMC, Sneha Bahekar has built a studio that focuses on quality, hygiene and neat finishing. Our Nail Art Studio offers:
- Nail extensions, gel overlays and gel polish
- Refilling and professional removal
- A wide range of nail art designs
- Customised looks for weddings, parties and everyday wear
If you are interested in learning this skill yourself, you can also check our Nail Art Course.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, they are generally safe when applied and removed properly by a trained professional. Damage usually happens when extensions are pulled off at home or not maintained on time.
The cost depends on the type of extension, the length and the design. At our studio, nail extensions for hands start from ₹1,799, and refills start from ₹1,399.
Acrylic is stronger and good for longer lengths, while gel feels lighter and more natural. The right choice depends on your nails and lifestyle.
Yes, most people manage easily. Choosing a moderate length and shape makes daily work more comfortable.
Please get them removed by a professional. Pulling them off at home can damage your natural nails.
Yes, extensions are a good option for short or bitten nails, as long as the nail and surrounding skin are healthy.
Final Words:
Nail extensions are a great way to get beautiful, well-shaped nails for any occasion. Choose the right type, keep your length practical, follow the aftercare tips and always visit a trained professional for application, refills and removal.
If you have any questions or want to book an appointment, please feel free to reach out.
📞 +91 91467 89835
📍 Shop no. 144, Vision One Mall, Tathawade, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune 411033
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