At Elite Elegance Studio's nail studio in Pitampura, we balance style with nail health. In this guide, our nail team explains the techniques we use, from classic manicures to extensions and nail art, and the real benefits of each.
1. It starts with a nail health check and clean tools
Before any polish or extension, we look at the condition of your nails and skin, and we make sure everything that touches them is clean.
The technique
Nail and cuticle check: we look for thinning, peeling, ridges, lifting or signs of infection, and ask about recent gel or acrylic use.
Hygiene first: metal tools are cleaned and sanitised between every client, and single-use items such as files and buffers are fresh for you.
Recommendation: we suggest a service that suits your nail strength, lifestyle and how long you want the look to last.
The benefits
Lower risk of infection, a must for any nail service.
The right service for your nails, for example a strengthening treatment before extensions on weak nails.
Early spotting of issues, such as fungal changes, that need a doctor rather than polish.
2. Manicures and pedicures: the foundation of nail care
A good manicure or pedicure is not just polish. It is shaping, cuticle care, exfoliation and hydration, done gently and precisely.
Classic manicure
How it works: nails are shaped with a fine file in one direction, cuticles are softened and gently pushed back, with only loose dead skin trimmed. Hands are massaged and nails polished.
Benefits: neat, even nails, healthier cuticles and soft hands. Gentle filing in one direction reduces splitting and peeling.
Spa manicure
How it works: a classic manicure plus a scrub to remove dead skin, a hydrating mask, and a longer massage.
Benefits: deeply moisturised hands, relaxed muscles, and visibly smoother skin. Ideal in Delhi winters, when hands crack and dry out.
Pedicure
How it works: a warm soak, nail shaping, cuticle care, gentle removal of hard skin from the heels with a foot file, a scrub, massage and polish.
Benefits: softer heels, cleaner nails, less risk of ingrown toenails when nails are cut straight across, and tired feet that feel refreshed.
Our standard: we do not cut cuticles aggressively or use blades on heels. Cuticles protect the nail from infection, and over-removing hard skin only makes it grow back thicker.
3. Gel polish: shine that lasts for weeks
Gel polish is the most popular upgrade from regular nail paint, and for good reason.
The technique
The nail surface is lightly buffed and cleansed to remove oil.
A thin base coat is applied and cured under an LED or UV lamp.
Two thin coats of colour are applied, each cured.
A glossy top coat is applied and cured, then the surface is wiped to reveal a high shine.
The benefits
Long-lasting: usually 2 to 3 weeks without chipping, compared with a few days for regular polish.
Instant dry: each layer sets under the lamp, so no smudges when you leave the studio.
Mirror shine that stays glossy until removal.
Adds a little strength to thin natural nails while it is on.
Removal matters: gel should be soaked off with remover, or carefully filed by a professional. Never peel or pick it off, because it pulls away layers of your natural nail.
4. Nail extensions: length and shape on demand
Extensions give you the length and shape you want, whether your natural nails are short, uneven or keep breaking. The three main systems differ in feel, strength and finish.
Technique
How it is done
Feel and finish
Key benefits
Best for
Acrylic extensions
A liquid monomer and powder polymer are mixed into a bead, sculpted over a tip or form, air-dried, then filed to shape
Very strong, slightly thicker
Most durable; holds dramatic lengths and shapes like coffin and stiletto
Long, bold nails; people hard on their hands
Gel extensions
Hard gel is sculpted on a form or applied with tips, and cured under a lamp
Lighter, flexible, glossy
Natural look and feel; no strong odour; less rigid
A natural, elegant look with added length
Builder gel (BIAB-style) overlay
A thick strengthening gel is applied over the natural nail, adding structure with little or no length
Thin, natural
Strengthens weak, bendy nails so they can grow out
Growing your own nails; short, neat sets
What to expect: extensions usually need an infill every 2 to 3 weeks as your natural nail grows. Removal should always be done in the studio by soaking or careful filing, never by prying.
Ask your technician: what product is being used. Quality acrylic systems use EMA-based liquid; MMA-based liquids are cheaper but can damage the nail and are widely considered unsafe for nail use.
5. Nail art: your personality, at your fingertips
Nail art turns a manicure into a statement. Most designs are done over gel polish or extensions so they last.
French and modern French
How it works: a clean white or coloured tip is painted along the free edge, straight, curved, angled or as a thin micro line.
Benefits: timeless and polished, suits every outfit and occasion, and grows out discreetly.
Ombre and baby boomer
How it works: two shades, such as pink and white, are blended from cuticle to tip with a sponge or brush for a soft gradient.
Benefits: a soft, elegant look that hides regrowth well; a favourite for brides.
Chrome and metallic
How it works: a fine chrome powder is rubbed onto a cured, no-wipe gel top coat, then sealed.
Benefits: a mirror-like, high-shine finish in silver, gold, pearl or holographic; very striking in photos and under party lights.
3D nail art
How it works: raised designs are built with gel, acrylic, crystals, studs or charms, then sealed in place.
Benefits: eye-catching texture and dimension, perfect for weddings, festive looks and special occasions.
Hand-painted and minimal designs
How it works: fine brushes, dotting tools and stamps are used for florals, lines, dots or matching motifs.
Benefits: fully customised to your outfit, theme or mood, from subtle accents on one nail to full sets.
6. Nail repair and nail spa: rescue for tired nails
After months of gel, extensions, household chores or harsh weather, nails often need a break. Repair treatments rebuild strength and moisture.
Nail repair
How it works: a split or broken nail is patched with a thin silk or fibre wrap, or a small amount of gel, then shaped and sealed so it can grow out without tearing further.
Benefits: saves a nail you would otherwise lose, and keeps your set looking even.
Nail spa
How it works: a gentle soak, light buffing to smooth ridges, cuticle oil and a nourishing mask for nails and hands, finished with a strengthening base coat.
Benefits: rehydrates brittle nails and dry cuticles, improves flexibility so nails bend rather than snap, and is ideal between gel or extension sets.
Good practice: if your nails feel thin or sore after removal, take a 1 to 2 week break with a strengthener and cuticle oil before your next set.
7. Aftercare: keep your nails perfect for longer
A few simple habits double the life of any manicure.
Oil your cuticles daily. Cuticle oil keeps the nail flexible and the skin around it healthy, and helps gel and extensions resist lifting.
Wear gloves when washing dishes, cleaning or gardening. Water and detergents are the biggest cause of lifting and brittleness.
Use your nails as jewels, not tools. Do not open cans, scrape labels or pick at polish.
Moisturise your hands after washing, especially in winter.
Fix lifting early. If an edge lifts, book a quick repair instead of picking at it, which can trap moisture underneath.
Protect your skin under the lamp by applying sunscreen to your hands beforehand, or asking for fingerless gloves, if you get gel done frequently.
Frequently asked questions
Do gel nails damage natural nails? Not when they are applied and removed correctly. Most damage comes from over-buffing or peeling gel off. Professional soak-off removal and regular cuticle oil keep nails healthy.
Acrylic or gel extensions: which should I choose? Choose acrylic for maximum strength and dramatic length. Choose gel for a lighter, more natural feel. If you just want your own nails stronger, a builder gel overlay is often the best option.
How long does a nail appointment take? About 45 minutes for a classic manicure, 60 to 75 minutes for gel polish with a manicure, and around 2 hours for a full set of extensions with art.
When should I book nails before a wedding or event? Two to three days before. Your nails will look fresh, and you will have time for any small fix. For brides, book after mehendi if you can, or plan colours that complement it.
Can I get nail services if I have a nail infection? No. Discoloured, thickened, painful or swollen nails should be checked by a doctor first. We will happily book you in once it has cleared.
Book your nail appointment
Whether you want a neat everyday manicure, long-lasting gel, statement extensions or bridal nail art, our nail team will create a set that suits your hands and your lifestyle.
Visit: Elite Elegance Studio, FU-6, Upper Ground Floor, Pitampura, Delhi – 110034 (map)
Call or WhatsApp: 97172 12921
Follow us: Instagram and YouTube for our latest nail designs
Bring a reference photo or your outfit colours, and we will design around them.