There is a first time for everyone, and plenty of people put off their first nail appointment simply because they aren't sure how it all works. Will you be expected to know the jargon? What if you choose the wrong treatment? The good news is that a nail salon is a relaxed place, and your technician's job is to guide you. This walk-through follows a visit from start to finish so nothing comes as a surprise.
Before you arrive: picking a treatment
You don't need to arrive with a perfect plan, but a rough idea helps. Most first-timers choose one of these:
- A classic manicure (from £20) – shaping, cuticle tidying and regular polish. A gentle introduction.
- Gel or Shellac on natural nails (from £20) – a glossy colour that's cured under a lamp and dry the moment you leave.
- BIAB (from £35) – a builder gel that adds a little strength to your own nails.
- An acrylic full set (from £38) – if you want extra length straight away.
Prices are starting prices; longer nails and detailed designs can cost more, and your technician will confirm the price before starting. If you're torn between options, our guide to BIAB, gel and acrylic compared explains the differences in plain English, and you can browse the full manicure and gel menu too.
Booking: walk in or reserve a time?
Walk-ins are welcome whenever a technician is free, but evenings and weekends are busiest. For a first visit, booking takes the guesswork out of it. When you book online, you'll create a free account, choose your service, pick a technician or "No preference", and select a start time. There's a notes box where you can mention anything useful – for example, "first time, would like a natural look" or "I have old gel that needs removing".
New to booking online with us? The code WELCOME10 gives 10% off a first online booking (minimum spend £15).
Arriving at the salon
We're at 4 Norfolk House, Wellesley Road, in the heart of Croydon. Arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in without rushing. Come with bare nails if you can; if you're wearing old gel or extensions, that's fine – a take off (from £10) can be added on the day.
It's worth wearing something with sleeves you can push up easily, and leaving rings and bracelets at home or in your bag.
During the treatment
The quick chat
Your technician will look at your nails and ask what you'd like. This is the moment to mention anything relevant: sensitive skin, a past reaction to a nail product, a hands-on job, or a big event coming up. If you don't know which shape or length suits you, say so – technicians are used to suggesting options.
Preparation
Expect your nails to be shaped and your cuticles gently tidied. For gel or BIAB, the nail surface is prepared so the product grips well. This part is the foundation of a long-lasting result, so it's never rushed.
Colour and finishing
Colour goes on in thin layers. With gel products, each layer is cured under a lamp for a short time. You can chat, sit quietly or just enjoy having some time to yourself – whatever you prefer.
Speak up at any point. If something feels uncomfortable or the shape isn't quite what you pictured, a good technician would much rather adjust it now than have you leave unhappy.
Paying and heading home
You pay in the salon once your treatment is finished, so there's nothing to pay upfront online. Ask the team which payment methods are available on the day. Tipping is optional in the UK and never expected, though it's always appreciated if you're happy with your nails.
Because you booked online, you'll have joined our free Shiny Club loyalty scheme automatically – 50 welcome points, then a point for every £1 you spend, added after your visit.
The first few days afterwards
Regular polish needs care for the rest of the day; gel is fully set when you leave. Whatever you choose, a little cuticle oil and a pair of gloves for washing up make a real difference. Our nail aftercare tips cover everything you need to keep your first set looking fresh.
Most people leave their first appointment wondering why they waited so long. Once you know the routine, it becomes one of the easiest bits of self-care in your week.