Rubber Base vs Gel vs Polygel vs Acrylic: Which Nails Are Best for You?
Rubber base, gel overlay, polygel or acrylic? A clear, honest guide to how each looks, lasts and costs — so you book the right nails in Cape Town.
Nails · from R100
Get nails that still look freshly done at week three, not chipped by day five. We prep your natural nail properly, then build a gel, rubber base, polygel or acrylic set that suits your nail and your lifestyle. You choose the shape and colour; we make sure it lasts.

Prices
Prices may vary with length, design and add-ons. Confirm your quote when booking.
Paint
R100
BookXpress Manicure Paint on WhatsAppGel
Popular
R200
BookXpress Manicure Gel on WhatsAppApplication
Popular
R250
BookRubber Base Application on WhatsAppBase with Gel Overlay
R300
BookRubber Base Base with Gel Overlay on WhatsAppBase with Tips & Gel Overlay
from R350
BookRubber Base Base with Tips & Gel Overlay on WhatsAppApplication
R300
BookPolygel Application on WhatsAppGel Overlay
R400
BookPolygel Gel Overlay on WhatsAppTips & Gel Overlay
from R350
BookPolygel Tips & Gel Overlay on WhatsAppOverlay with Gel
R400
BookAcrylic Overlay with Gel on WhatsAppOverlay with Tips & Gel
from R500
BookAcrylic Overlay with Tips & Gel on WhatsAppSoft Gel Tips & Gel Application
from R500
BookSoft Gel Soft Gel Tips & Gel Application on WhatsAppAll Fills with Gel Reapplication
R250
BookFills & Add-ons All Fills with Gel Reapplication on WhatsAppSoak Off + File + Buff + Moisturise
R100
BookFills & Add-ons Soak Off + File + Buff + Moisturise on WhatsAppFrench Paint
R30
BookFills & Add-ons French Paint on WhatsAppNail Repair
R50
BookFills & Add-ons Nail Repair on WhatsAppYour appointment
We look at your nails, talk about shape, length and colour, and recommend the right system for you.
Cuticle care, gentle shaping and a clean, dry nail plate — the step that makes gel last.
Thin, even layers of Gel-It or BG Superior gel, each cured under the lamp.
A high-shine top coat, cuticle oil and aftercare tips before you leave.
Real results
Real clients, photographed in our Lansdowne salon.
Showing 6 photos
FAQ
A gel manicure usually lasts 2–3 weeks when the nail is prepped well and you look after it — gloves for cleaning, cuticle oil daily and no picking. Gel on toes often lasts 3–4 weeks because toenails grow more slowly.
Rubber base is a thick, flexible gel base that strengthens thin or bendy natural nails. A gel overlay adds a protective layer over your natural nail. Polygel is a putty-like hybrid of gel and acrylic that's light but strong, good for adding length. Acrylic is the hardest and most durable option, best for long or dramatic sets. We'll recommend the right one for your nails.
Damage usually comes from picking or peeling product off, or from harsh removal — not the product itself. That's why we recommend a proper soak-off (R100) rather than pulling off an old set.
Every 2–3 weeks. A fill with gel reapplication is R250 and keeps your set strong and neat as your nails grow.
Please do. Send it on WhatsApp when you book so we can confirm the price and set aside the right amount of time for nail art or French tips.
Read before you book
Rubber base, gel overlay, polygel or acrylic? A clear, honest guide to how each looks, lasts and costs — so you book the right nails in Cape Town.
Gel should last 2–3 weeks, not 5 days. Why gel chips or lifts early, and 9 simple habits to keep your manicure glossy for longer — from our Lansdowne salon.
Weekend slots fill up fast. Send us a message now and we'll find a time that suits you.
Prefer to talk? Call 084 586 9432Quick reply on WhatsApp · All prices shown upfront · Message us on WhatsApp for today's availability.