Semi-permanent or gel: which is right for you? - Marélia Institut
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Are you hesitating between semi-permanent and gel nails?
You're not the only one. That's the question we get asked most often at reception.
The answer depends on you: your nails, your daily routine, what you expect from a manicure. We'll explain everything, without jargon.
What it really is, each one
Semi-permanent nail polish is a color that is applied directly onto your natural nail.
No thickness, no lengthening. The nail is prepared, the color is applied in several layers, and it is cured under a UV lamp between each layer.
Result: a smooth, glossy surface that lasts approximately 3 weeks without chipping.
Gel nail extensions are something else entirely.
We work with a resin that is sculpted onto the nail — or onto a template to lengthen it. The gel hardens under a UV lamp, and the result is significantly stronger.
It can also correct the natural shape of the nail, strengthen brittle nails, or create the lengthening you want.
Choose according to your nails
If your natural nails are healthy, flexible, and not too short, semi-permanent polish is often sufficient.
The application is light, the natural nail breathes better, and removal is simple.
If your nails break easily, if you bite them, if you would like to see them a little longer, gel is for you.
They can be reinforced with a gel coating — which remains on the natural nail — or even gel false nails can be applied for lengthening and strength.
Choose according to your daily life
Do you work a lot with your hands, do you cook, do you play sports?
The gel is more resistant to shocks and daily friction.
If you have a gentler daily routine and like to change your color often, semi-permanent polish is more flexible: removal is quick and damages the nail less.
And what about the duration?
Semi-permanent makeup generally lasts 2 to 3 weeks.
Next, the regrowth of the natural nail begins to be visible at the base.
Depending on the technique, the gel lasts 3 to 5 weeks.
We come back for a fill — filling in the regrowth — rather than a complete removal.
Prices at Marélia Institut
Semi-permanent nail polish for hands: from €25
Gel overlay on natural nails: from €40
Gel nail extensions: from €50
American style / Gel X: from €50
The Gel X technique, also known as American manicure, is ideal if you want a natural, light and very aesthetic lengthening.
This is the option that is gaining the most followers at the moment.
In summary
Do you want a color that lasts, with healthy natural nails? → Semi-permanent.
Do you want strength, length, or do you have fragile nails? → Gel.
Still don't know? → We'll assess you at reception and advise you on the most suitable technique for your nails that day.
Book an appointment online:
Marélia Institute · 14 rue Taylor, Paris 10th arrondissement · Metro République
Monday to Saturday, 10am–8pm
Take care of yourself. We'll take care of the rest.
