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Gel X vs Acrylic nails: Which Extensions Are Right For You?
So, you've decided you want extensions. Easy bit done. Then you open the booking menu and find yourself staring at two options: Gel X or acrylic. Which one's stronger? Which lasts longer? Does one feel more natural? Is Gel X really “better” for your nails? And, most importantly, which one is actually right for you? I offer both Gel X and acrylic extensions from my nail desk in Paignton, and I'm going to give you the slightly annoying answer: Neither one is automatically bette
5 days ago10 min read


Why Torbay Clients Are Choosing BIAB Nails Over Acrylic
Over the past couple of years, I've noticed a real shift in what clients are asking for in my Torbay salon - and BIAB nails are right at the centre of it. More clients are coming to me wanting to grow their natural nails, keep their manicure looking natural and find something that fits comfortably into everyday life. That's led plenty of them to ask whether they should swap their acrylics for BIAB. But BIAB isn't simply "better acrylic", and acrylic certainly hasn't become a
Sep 126 min read


How to Make Your Nails Last Longer on Holiday
There's nothing worse than spending time and money getting your holiday nails absolutely perfect... only to spot lifting or damage halfway through your trip. Whether you're heading abroad, enjoying a UK staycation or simply making the most of summer here in Devon, your normal routine tends to go completely out of the window on holiday. Swimming. Sea water. Sun cream. Suitcases. Long days out. More time around water. And, of course, the temptation to use your nails to open som
Aug 157 min read


Bright vs Neutral Nails: What’s Trending For Summer 2026?
Bright nails and neutral nails are both having a major moment this summer. From vibrant holiday shades to elegant minimalist manicures, discover which trend is right for you and what’s proving most popular with clients in Torbay.
Jul 216 min read


How to Make Your Nails Last Longer (Expert Tips From a Torbay Nail Tech)
One of the questions I get asked most often at the nail desk is: “How can I make my nails last longer?” Whether you've chosen gel, BIAB or nail art, there isn't one magic trick that guarantees your manicure will last a certain number of weeks. Your natural nails, the treatment you're wearing, professional preparation and application, your lifestyle and what happens after you leave the salon can all affect how your nails wear. But there are some simple things you can do betwee
Jul 116 min read


Chrome nails: Styles, Ideas and Everything You Need To Know
Chrome nails aren't exactly subtle. Even the softer finishes catch the light, change as you move your hands and somehow make a simple manicure look completely different. And they've become a firm favourite at my nail desk in Paignton. ✨ The brilliant thing about chrome is that it isn't actually one single “look”. It can be soft and pearly, glossy and glazed, bright and colourful or full-on metallic. You can wear it across every nail, add it to a French tip or use just a littl
Jun 156 min read


Summer Nail Trends 2026: What My Torbay Clients Are Wearing
Looking for summer nail inspiration? From chrome finishes and vibrant colours to minimalist nail art and BIAB overlays, here are the biggest summer nail trends clients in Torbay are loving right now.
Jun 86 min read


Why Do My Gel Nails Keep Lifting? (Torbay Nail Tech Explains)
You've had your gel nails done, they looked perfect when you left the salon... and a few days later you've spotted that first annoying bit of lifting. So, what happened? Gel nails can lift for several different reasons, and it isn't always as simple as blaming the product – or blaming what you've done with your hands afterwards. Your natural nails, preparation, application, lifestyle, water exposure, aftercare and the condition of the manicure as it grows can all play a part.
May 317 min read


First BIAB Appointment? Here’s Exactly What to Expect
If you've never had BIAB nails before, you might be wondering what actually happens once you sit down at the nail desk. Do you need to grow your nails first? Should you arrive with completely bare nails? Will you need to know exactly what shape or colour you want? And what exactly am I going to do to your natural nails? Don't worry – you don't need to become a nail expert before your appointment. That's my job. In this guide, I'll take you through exactly what happens when yo
May 186 min read


How Long Do BIAB Nails Actually Last?
If you're thinking about getting BIAB nails, there's probably one question pretty high on your list: How long do BIAB nails actually last? For many of my clients, BIAB appointments are typically spaced around 2–3 weeks apart, although how your own set wears will depend on your natural nail growth, lifestyle, aftercare and the condition of the manicure as it grows out. You might see people online claiming their BIAB lasted four or even five weeks – but being able to keep a set
May 125 min read


Gel vs BIAB Nails: Which Is Best for You?
Trying to choose between BIAB and gel nails? In this guide, I break down the key differences between the two, including strength, longevity, maintenance, and which option is best for your natural nails and lifestyle. Perfect if you’re booking nails in Torbay and want to know which treatment is actually right for you.
May 85 min read


What Are BIAB Nails? A Torbay Nail Tech's Complete Guide
Curious about BIAB nails? In this ultimate guide, I break down what Builder in a Bottle actually is, why it’s so popular with clients across Torbay and Paignton, and how it helps you achieve stronger, longer-lasting natural nails without the damage. Perfect if you’re deciding whether BIAB is right for you before booking your next nail appointment.
May 55 min read
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