Should you get a gel pedicure instead of regular polish? We asked experts, and here's what they said
Not sure if it's worth spending extra time and money on a gel pedicure? Here's every pro and con to help you choose
Fiona McKim
A trip to the nail salon is such a treat, especially if you're getting a pedicure ahead of a holiday or summer event. There's nothing quite like the feeling of baby-soft soles and a pristine set of nails, ready to show off in your sandals.
Once you've narrowed down the newest pedicure ideas and prepped your feet for a pedi (if you feel it's necessary), you may be considering all the other important questions: what timeless pedicure colours to choose from and - what brings us here today - whether to get regular polish or opt for a gel pedicure.
That particular choice comes down to a few considerations, including cost, lasting power, the potential for damage and the finished effect. Want some help pinning down your perfect salon pedi? We've spoken to an expert to help you pick the right option.
Should you get a gel pedicure or regular polish?
According to nail expert Leighton Denny MBE, the differences are straightforward: "Gel polish cures under a UV or LED lamp, it sets instantly and is more resistant to chipping and fading," he explains. Gel pedicures are ideal when you're going on holiday or have a special occasion, as they provide a long-lasting and high-shine finish.
Denny continues, "Regular nail polish can also offer a long-lasting finish, especially on toes, when the right products and proper application are used, making it a great option for those who prefer a more flexible or budget-friendly choice.”
If you can't manage a salon appointment, these clever wraps are the next best thing. Like flexible stickers, they are applied to the nails, filed down to fit and that's it! The brand says you can get 21 days although we found in practice it's more like 14, but that's still very impressive for a very minimal investment in time and money.
These may seem a little strange in the box, but take our beauty editors advice on press on pedicures and give them a go! Like any other false nail, they simply stick on, look great instantly and last a few days. The main benefit of these over wraps is that they come in a perfect 'pedicure' shape, so there's no shaping of your natural nail required.
Which lasts longer, a gel pedicure or polish?
Regular nail polish tends to last for far longer on your toes than it does on your hands, but the duration of a gel pedicure vs regular polish is considerable, too. Denny reveals that, "Once a gel pedicure is done and your feet go into your shoes, that polish is pretty much untouched until you deliberately take it off. That’s why a gel pedicure can last several months, often without a chip in sight.”
He continues, “With the right products and correct application, regular polish can last from two to even three or four weeks of wear. While it may not match the staying power of gel, regular polish remains a great option depending on your preferences, lifestyle, and budget.”
Pros and cons of a gel pedicures vs regular polish
Pros of a gel pedicure:
- Lasts much longer than regular polish
- Resistant to chipping and fading
- High-shine finish
- Quicker drying-time at the salon
- Helps protect nails against breaking
Cons of a gel pedicure:
- More expensive than normal pedicures
- Can dry out your nails
- Not suitable if you have damaged nails
- Can't easily switch up your colour
- It has to be properly removed in the salon
Pros of a polish pedicure:
- Much more affordable salon service
- Easy to do it yourself at home
- Easy to switch up colours if you change your mind
- Safe and quick to remove at home yourself
- Can experiment with nail art and designs
Cons of a polish pedicure:
- Takes longer to dry in the salon
- More likely to chip, fade and discolour
- More of a matte finish
- Can look less professional
Do gel pedicures damage your nails?
Denny explains, "Gel polish isn’t damaging in itself; it all depends on how it's applied and how it’s removed," he says. "Improper removal, like picking at gels or leaving them on too long, can weaken the nail. It’s generally fine to leave gel on toenails for up to four weeks, as they grow more slowly."
Gel pedicures don't have to be damaging, according to Denny. "When it comes to nail care, my mantra has always been to treat your nails like you would your skin," he says. "I would advise giving nails a break every couple of months to nourish, strengthen, and feed their nails the nutrients they need with what I call a ‘nail facial’.”
RRP: £15
Cuticle oil is the best way to keep the nails on your hands and feet looking their best. After you've had a pedicure, maintain that salon finish by drizzling on a few drops and massaging it in each day.
RRP: £14.40
Coming to the rescue of cracked and dry heels, this is a nourishing blend of organic oils that soothes, softens, and hydrates dry skin and nails. Massage this rich balm to keep your feet and toes looking their best.
RRP: £14
If you're wondering how to go about repairing damaged nails, then look no further than this strengthening elixir, which you can use either underneath polish or on its own. The vegan formula is enriched with plant keratin, which works to repair damaged toenails that need a little TLC.
How to remove a gel pedicure
"I would always advise that you have your gels removed by a professional," Denny recommends. "Most salons offer a removal-only service, and at-home removal can lead to damage.”
And, as ever, however tempting it is, don't pick or peel at gel nails. It causes damage and weakens your nails. Damage from gel pedicure or manicures doesn't come from the product itself; it's the improper removal. So, make sure if you do get a gel pedicure this summer, you get it properly removed in the salon by a professional.
Should you get a gel pedicure instead of regular polish this summer?
Now you've got the lowdown about gel pedicures vs normal polish, which should you get? This one really comes down to your personal requirements. “While gel polish is known for its durability, a well-applied regular polish can last anywhere from two to even three or four weeks - so it really comes down to what suits you, your routine, and your budget," says Denny. "There’s no right or wrong, just what works best for your lifestyle," he says.
So, now we know that gel pedicures themselves won't cause nail damage, and if you want a long-lasting and professional-looking pedicure, a gel treatment might be for you. But if you know that you won't go to the salon for a proper removal, then always opt for normal polish, where you can remove safely at home yourself.
