Natural nail strengthening in Paris
Gel Strengthening & Nail Architecture
Professional strengthening with architectural work for comfortable, everyday wear.
Book the serviceBespoke nail architecture
At FÉNIX, strengthening isn’t “just gel”—it’s a balance and shape approach adapted to your nails.
We build a reinforcement zone (apex) to distribute stress and improve stability. When relevant, light shape correction can be proposed depending on nail anatomy.
Result: controlled thickness, a more stable free edge, and lasting shine—typically up to 3–4 weeks depending on lifestyle.
Who is gel strengthening for?
You have natural length
With length, stress distribution matters. Architectural work helps reduce breakage risk, especially with square and soft-square shapes.
Fragile nails
After aggressive removal, over-filing, or naturally thin nails, strengthening can add stability.
Flexible nails or gel polish that doesn’t last
If polish chips quickly or the nail bends under pressure, a more structuring material can improve wear.
Frequent breaks in stress zones
For small cracks, snags, or repeated breaks, strengthening helps stabilize the free edge and overall shape.
Overlay or strengthening?
Overlay (Base)
A flexible overlay that follows the nail’s natural curve.
- Suitable for most nails, especially short nails
- More flexible material, natural look
- Light coverage without heaviness
- Ideal when there is no significant length
- Finished with gel polish
- Typical wear up to ~3 weeks (depending on lifestyle)
Gel strengthening
A more structuring material with apex (reinforcement zone) and architecture work.
- Soft, fragile, or brittle nails
- Medium to long length
- Improved stability
- Finished with gel polish
- Typical wear 3–4 weeks (depending on lifestyle)
Pro tip: if you’re unsure, book gel strengthening—your specialist will assess your nails on site and choose the most suitable option.
Gel strengthening & architecture protocol
- 1
Preparation (Russian manicure)
Precise cuticle work and nail preparation to optimize adhesion.
- 2
Adhesion
A thin adhesion layer to stabilize the set.
- 3
Strengthening & apex
Building architecture and creating the apex (reinforcement zone) for improved stability.
- 4
Shaping & protection
Refining the shape, then finishing with a protective top coat.
FAQ — gel strengthening
Overlay is more flexible and works very well for short nails to smooth and even out. Gel strengthening is more structuring: it allows architectural work (apex) and is better when nails are fragile or have length.
When done correctly, gel strengthening is not meant to damage the nail. Most damage comes from excessive filing or aggressive removal. At FÉNIX, removal is done carefully.
On average, a refill is recommended every 3–4 weeks depending on growth, length, and lifestyle. This helps maintain balance and reduce breakage risk.
Yes. The choice depends on nail condition: if length increases or nails become more fragile, strengthening may be advised. If nails are short and stable, overlay may be enough. The decision is made after assessment.
Elevate your nails
152 rue Lamarck, 75018 Paris • Our Nail Studio in Paris
Open 10:00 AM – 7:15 PM