What to Expect at Your First Structured Gel Appointment
If you’ve only ever had quick gel polish at a busy salon, the idea of a “structured gel” appointment can sound a bit mysterious — or even intimidating. You might be wondering:
What actually happens during the appointment?
How long does it take?
What should my nails look like before I come in?
In this post, I’ll walk you through what to expect at your first structured gel appointment with me at Totally Polished, so you can feel calm, prepared, and excited instead of nervous.
What Is a Structured Gel Manicure?
A structured gel manicure is different from a basic “gel polish” service. Instead of just adding color, we’re building a supportive layer of hard gel that helps protect your natural nails, add strength, and create a flattering shape.
It’s ideal if:
Your nails are prone to breaking, peeling, or splitting
You want your manicure to last longer
You like a clean, polished look that still feels like your nails — just better
At Totally Polished, my focus is always on natural nail health first, then beauty and longevity.
Before Your Appointment
You don’t need to do anything fancy to prepare, but a few simple things help:
Arrive with bare nails if possible, or let me know ahead of time if you have product on from another salon
Avoid picking, peeling, or biting your nails or cuticles (I know, it’s tempting)
Bring or send me inspiration photos if you have a specific look or length in mind
If you’re not sure what to book or what’s realistic for your nails, you can always reach out before your appointment — I’m happy to talk it through with you.
What Happens During the Appointment
Here’s a general flow of a first-time structured gel appointment with me:
Consultation
We’ll chat about your nail history, what’s been working (or not), your lifestyle, and what you’re hoping for. This helps me recommend the right length, shape, and service for you.Natural Nail Prep
I’ll gently prep your natural nails — shaping, refining, and carefully working around the cuticle area. This step is key for both nail health and long-lasting results.Structured Gel Application
I’ll apply a supportive layer of hard gel to create structure, strength, and a flattering shape. We’ll keep things comfortable and check in as we go.Color & Finish
We’ll choose your color (or keep it neutral) and finish everything with a smooth, glossy top coat.Cuticle Oil & Lotion Massage
Every gel service with me ends with cuticle oil and a quick lotion massage — a small, relaxing moment before you head back into your day.
Throughout the appointment, you’re welcome to ask questions. I’m always happy to explain what I’m doing and why.
How Long Does It Take?
For a first-time structured gel set, I like to allow enough time so we’re not rushed. Depending on your nails and what we’re doing, you can expect roughly:
New structured gel set: around 1.5-3 hours
Fill / refresh: around 1.5-2 hours
If you have specific timing needs (or very damaged/bitten nails), let me know when you reach out so I can plan accordingly.
Aftercare: Helping Your Set Last
To get the most out of your structured gel manicure:
Avoid using your nails as tools (opening cans, scraping, etc.)
Wear gloves when cleaning or using harsh chemicals
Use cuticle oil regularly to keep the skin and nails hydrated
Reach out if you notice lifting or damage rather than picking at it
We can also talk about how often to come in for a fill or refresh based on your nail growth and lifestyle.
Is Structured Gel Right for You?
Structured gel is a great fit if you:
Want your nails to feel stronger and more supported
Care about natural nail health and proper prep
Prefer a clean, polished look that can be customized with length and design
If you’re not sure whether you need a gel polish manicure, gel overlay, or a full structured set, you can always send me a message with photos of your nails and what you’re hoping for. I’ll be honest about what I recommend.
Ready to Book or Ask a Question?
If you’re curious about structured gel nails at Totally Polished, you can:
Visit my Pricing & How to Book page to see starting prices
Use my Contact page to ask about availability or send inspiration photos
Share a bit about your nail history so we can choose the right service together
I’m always happy to help you figure out what makes the most sense for your nails and your lifestyle.
