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virtual-nails
  • Beautifully designed, professionally applied

    GEL NAILS PORTSMOUTH

    Gel nail extensions can be applied in two different ways - tips or overlay with your choice of colour a. The application process is similar to normal nail enhancements with a better result and minus any headache!

"THE BEST GEL NAILS I'VE EVER HAD"

Welcome to our gel nail salon in Portsmouth, where style, strength, and shine come together flawlessly. Our gel nail treatments are designed for lasting beauty — whether you’re choosing overlays, full tips, or a custom finish in your perfect shade.


At Virtual Nails, we use top-quality products and techniques to ensure your nails stay chip-free, glossy, and salon-perfect for weeks.


Because perfect nails aren’t just a luxury — they’re a lifestyle.

SERVICES AND BOOK NOW CALENDARS

Hard Gel Extensions With Gel Colour

A nail technician shapes this gel over your natural nails or over nail forms, then cures (hardens) it under a UV or LED light, locking everything in place.

Unlike soft gels (like gel polish), hard gel is sturdy. You can build it up to create long, dramatic nails, or just add subtle length if you're going for a more natural look. It feels lightweight once it’s cured, but it’s strong enough to resist bending or breaking—great if you use your hands a lot but still want that polished, put-together vibe.



Treatment Time: 1 hour

Hard Gel Nail Overlays With Gel Colour

We apply a hard gel overlay on your natural nail plate without adding any length. Painted with gel polish with your preference of colour or design.

Nail overlays are for clients who prefer, or as a requirement, need to keep their nails short. It's also a great solution for nail biters. 


Treatment Time: 1 hour

NAIL INFILLS

Have your infills no longer than 4 weeks from application.

We can only infill nails done at Virtual Lashes Salon due to not being able to guarantee the quality or previous treatment applications.

Our infills Includes nail repair for 2 nails per sitting.

FAQ

What’s the difference between gel nails and BIAB?


Gel nails are typically soft gel polish applied over the natural nail, offering color and shine with moderate durability.
BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) is a stronger, thicker gel designed to strengthen and support natural nail growth. It can be used alone for a natural look or as a base under gel polish.


Can BIAB be used to extend my nails?

Yes! BIAB can be used with nail forms to create short to medium-length extensions. It’s perfect for adding strength and shape while maintaining a natural appearance.



How long do gel nails or BIAB last?


Both gel polish and BIAB can last 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your nail growth and how well you care for them. BIAB tends to be longer-lasting due to its strength and structure.

Will BIAB or gel damage my natural nails?

Not when applied and removed correctly. Damage usually occurs from improper removal (like picking or peeling). We always recommend professional removal to keep your nails healthy.

Can I paint over BIAB with regular polish?

Yes, you can paint over BIAB with regular polish, and remove it with non-acetone remover—just be gentle. The BIAB underneath stays intact.

Is BIAB suitable for weak or brittle nails?

Absolutely. BIAB is ideal for strengthening fragile or peeling nails, helping them grow longer and healthier over time.

How is BIAB removed?

BIAB can be soaked off or gently filed down, depending on the method used. Regular infills are more common than full removals, allowing the product to stay on and grow with your nails.

Can I get nail art with BIAB or gel polish?

YES! Both gel and BIAB provide a perfect base for nail art, chrome, glitter, French tips, and more.

What’s the difference between BIAB and Hard Gel?

BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) is a flexible, strengthening gel that’s great for natural nails and short extensions. It’s self-leveling and applied from a bottle like polish.
Hard Gel is more rigid and durable, ideal for creating longer extensions and intricate shapes. It’s applied with a brush and must be filed off for removal.

Which one is better for nail growth?

BIAB is often recommended for natural nail growth because it's lighter and allows your nails to grow underneath with support. It’s especially good for weak or peeling nails.

Can both BIAB and Hard Gel be used for extensions?

BIAB is great for short to medium extensions.

Hard Gel is better for longer, sculpted extensions that need more structure.

How long do they last?

Both can last 3 to 4 weeks with proper care. However, Hard Gel may last slightly longer if you're tough on your hands due to its strength.

Which one feels more natural?

BIAB tends to feel more natural and flexible on the nail. Hard Gel feels stronger and more solid, which some clients prefer for durability.

Which one should I choose?
Choose BIAB if you want to grow your natural nails, prefer a more natural look, or don’t want long extensions.
Choose Hard Gel if you want long, sculpted nails or need maximum strength and durability.

Read our Google Reviews and see what our clients say.

Our Location

There is a main bus route stopping just outside our salon, making it easily accessible to individuals living in Southsea, Cosham, Waterlooville, Portchester, Havant and Emsworth.

Find us on Copnor Road, on the junction joining both Stubbington Avenue & Burfields Road.


Virtual Lashes

218 Copnor Road

Portsmouth

PO3 5DA

Standard Opening Times
 Tuesday 9:30 am - 7:30pm
Wednesday  9:30 am - 7:30pm
Thursday  9:30 am - 7:30pm
Friday  9:30 am - 7:30pm
Saturday10am - 4:30pm
Sunday Closed
MondayClosed

Our times are designed to be comfortable and convenient for our customers. If you have an out of hours request, you can contact us with your query.